1. **The Beginning** / **آغاز**

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The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden hue over the bustling city. Farzana Begum sat in the crowded bus, her eyes distant as she gazed out of the window. Beside her were her two daughters, Emaan and Nawal. The bus jolted and swayed, filled with the chatter of passengers and the hum of the engine.

As they passed through the wealthy neighborhood, Farzana's eyes widened with a mix of awe and envy. Grand mansions lined the streets, each one more magnificent than the last. Manicured lawns, sparkling fountains, and luxury cars parked in the driveways all spoke of a life far removed from their own.

Farzana's heart ached with longing. She could see her dreams reflected in the opulent homes, the life she had always desired but never attained. Her gaze lingered on a particularly grand mansion, its towering structure a symbol of power and prosperity. She sighed, her thoughts filled with visions of wealth and status.

Emaan noticed her mother's intense gaze and nudged Nawal. The younger girl looked up from her phone, following her sister's gaze to their mother. Nawal saw the familiar look in Farzana's eyes—a blend of ambition and desperation. She exchanged a knowing glance with Emaan, who simply shook her head slightly, indicating they should stay silent.

As the bus continued its journey, Farzana turned to her daughters, her expression softening yet determined. "One day," she murmured, almost to herself, "we will live in a place like this. I promise you that."

Emaan looked away, her heart heavy with the weight of her mother's ambitions. Nawal, though, couldn't help but feel a spark of hope, even as she feared the cost of such dreams.

The bus moved on, leaving the grandeur of the wealthy neighborhood behind, but the images remained etched in Farzana's mind. This was the beginning of their journey—a journey driven by a mother's unyielding desire to rise above her humble beginnings and secure a prosperous future for her family.

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As the bus continued its journey, passing through the affluent neighborhood, the view shifted from the opulent mansions to a particular grand estate. Inside one of these mansions, a family gathered around a lavish dining table for breakfast.

**The Raisani Mansion**

The dining room was a testament to luxury and elegance. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting a soft glow over the room. The walls were adorned with intricate gold leaf designs, and large windows allowed natural light to flood in, illuminating the rich mahogany furniture. A long, polished table sat in the center, set with fine china and silverware.

 A long, polished table sat in the center, set with fine china and silverware

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**The Raisani Family**

At the head of the table sat Jalaluddin Shah Raisani, a dignified man in his late sixties. His hair was silver, neatly combed back, and his piercing eyes spoke of years of wisdom and authority. He held the newspaper in one hand, a frown marring his otherwise calm expression.

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