VEILS OF ROSE

CHAPTER 1️⃣0️⃣

AUTHOR’S POV

Arsalan awoke early, feeling unusually refreshed. After what had felt like an eternity, he’d finally enjoyed a peaceful night’s sleep. He headed to the washroom, tended to his morning routine, and glanced at the clock. With the mansion’s gym under renovation, he decided an outdoor jog was just what he needed. He slipped into comfortable running clothes, laced up his sneakers, and set out into the crisp morning.

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Back at the girls’ apartment, anticipation was building. Roshni and Noorie were practically pacing in the living room, waiting for Grandma’s arrival. Meanwhile, Sara and Asma lounged on the couch, scrolling through their phones.

Finally, the doorbell chimed. Roshni practically collided with the door as she rushed to answer, nearly knocking it off its hinges. Moments later, Grandma stepped in, her warm smile filling the room. Asma dashed forward and wrapped her in a loving hug. Grandma returned it with a gentle pat.

She turned to Sara next, pulling her into a soft, motherly embrace. Roshni, feeling playful, tugged at Grandma’s sleeve. “Did you forget about me? Showering all your love on them?” she teased.

Grandma ruffled her hair. “Ow, Grandma, you're hurting me,” Roshni pretended, feigning pain. “I’m sorry—just let go!”

“No rushing in reunion hugs,” Grandma laughed. Then she turned to Noorie. “All right, now that the welcoming committee is over... can we finally eat? I’m famished—and I can’t wait any longer.”

Noorie squealed and sprinted toward the kitchen. “Yeah, I know how to appreciate breakfast!”

Grandma chuckled. “Oh, you certainly do,” she teased, taking a seat. Noorie put on her best shocked face. “Grandma, I do more than just eat, you know!”

“Sure you do,” Grandma teased. “So tell me, when was the last time you cleaned your room?”

Noorie froze. “Um… that would’ve been… er… next weekend! Yes, I promise I’ll do it then,” she stammered, casting Sara a pleading look.

Sara swooped in. “Okay, Grandma, enough teasing—let’s eat.”

Grandma motioned to the table piled with dishes. “I can serve myself—I'm no guest. You two sit!”

Sara and Asma exchanged amused glances while Roshni whispered, “Why is there so much food?”

Roshni blushed. “Actually, Grandma… that’s Asma’s doing. She wants to take breakfast to Ishaan, so she helped me cook.”

Grandma’s eyes lit up. “Oh, wonderful! Ashu, you’re romantic now?” Asma turned bright red, glaring at Roshni, who covered her mouth and mouthed, “Sorry!”

Noorie jumped up. “Grandma, we wasted enough time. I’m starving!”

Grandma playfully tapped her anchor. “Bad Noorie, always thinking about food first.”

Noorie hugged herself theatrically. “Ow! Why is, like, everyone beating me today?” she whined, rubbing her head.

Soon, the table buzzed with laughter and clinking cutlery.

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Moments later, Arsalan returned from his jog. The kitchen staff was clearing away empty plates. He thanked them and headed upstairs to shower. After freshening up, he came downstairs for coffee—but skipped breakfast. He told the staff they could enjoy today’s feast and that they didn’t need to prepare breakfast for him again. He sipped his coffee, grabbed his car keys and phone, and left for Ishaan’s office.