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"Behind every smile lies a hidden intention, like a mask that conceals the true face of one's desires." ~Z.S
Welcome to the 19th Chapter... _________________________
DAY 2 AVANTIKA'S POV EVENING
While talking to Ruhi, I gently folded the hem of my dress, trying to avoid any creases. Once satisfied, I settled into the recliner by the bedroom window, sinking into its cushions as I made myself comfortable.
CALL CONVERSATION [A is Avantika | R is Ruhi]
R: "Are you ready?" A: "Yeah, I'm ready. Just waiting for Uncle Harold. He should be here in about ten minutes. Ruh, I'm so nervous. I feel like I'm having an anxiety attack." R: "Okay, calm down. I'm with you, remember? Try to push whatever happened in the last two days out of your mind for now. You've been working for this moment for three years, and no one can take that away from you. Put on your big bratty boots and slay it! Today is about you, your business, and the most-awaited achievement of your life. You've got this!" A: "I feel so much better now. Thank you, Ruh. I'm really lucky to have you." R: "I know, I know. Ab mein itni bhi kuch khaas nahi." {"Now, I'm not that great of a person also."} A: "Hahaha! You're too modest. Oh, let me know when you get to the venue. Have you spoken with Armaan?" R: "Don't worry! I'm all set. I just had to swing by the office to grab a file from my assistant and double-check some evidence for tomorrow's court hearing. Armaan is picking me up, and he'll be here in about 20 minutes. We'll definitely be there on time." A: "Okay, just don't be late. I'll be waiting." R: "Yeah, yeah, don't stress. Oh, wait—it's been ten minutes already, Uncle Har—"
Just as Ruhi was about to speak, the doorbell of my penthouse rang. I quickly ended the call and hung up on Ruh.
"Madam Martha, could you get the door?" I called out, my voice echoing through the penthouse. But there was no response. Frowning, I stepped into the living room, only to find it empty. "Where could she have gone?" I thought, puzzled. She was just here...
The doorbell rang again, cutting off my thoughts. I placed my phone on the side table next to the sofa and made my way towards the front door, the sound of my heels clicking against the floor.
"Yes, yes! I'm coming..." I called out, unlocking the door and pulling the handle down. When the door swung open, no one was there.
I peered outside, looking both left and right, wondering if someone was playing a prank on me. Maybe a child had rung the bell and run off? But the hallway was completely empty. As I turned to go back inside, my foot hit something—a large box sitting next to the door. I hadn't noticed it earlier.
