Chapter 10

When Monday morning dawned, Shanaya could not be more eager to leave her family house.

She had always expected it to be a haven; a place to relax after a long week—to heal and recover from the burnout, but it had never felt that way.

Going to her family house felt more like an obligation—a duty she was committed to doing. She did that every weekend. Sometimes, she felt guilty for perceiving like checking up on her grandmother and Ahail, were merely tasks on her to-do list.

Shanaya sneaked out as always, tiptoeing to the front door. It was still dark outside, but the chirping of birds had replaced the quietness of the night. She needed some time to restore her sanity before reaching her workplace.

She was about to turn the doorknob when someone cleared their throat behind her, causing her to freeze in her place. She sighed, feeling like a thief caught red-handed.

"One day you'll regret not saying goodbye before leaving," Suhala's throaty voice fell on her ears. Her grandmother was