In the Heart of Darkness

Chapter 45: Silent Plead

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Zara jolted awake, her heart racing as her desperate cry filled the dimly lit room. "Ibrahim!" she gasped, clutching her chest. The vision of his face, twisted in pain, haunted her. She lay back on the pillow, a torrent of silent tears slipping down her cheeks, feeling the weight of his absence like an anchor pulling her under.

Nancy entered quietly, carrying breakfast on a tray. "Assalam O Alikum! Morning," she greeted, forcing a small smile. But Zara couldn't hold her eyes.

"Nancy, don't do this," Zara murmured, her voice breaking. "I'm no longer at your boss house as his --- wife."

Nancy rolled her eyes and shrugged with a playful pout. "Zara, you never treated me like your personal helper anyway. You've always been more like my friend. So, I'm taking care of my friend. Is that so wrong?"

For the first time in days, Zara managed a weak smile. "No, you're right, Nancy. Thank you... for everything."

They sat down to eat, though Zara barely touched her food, her appetite as vanished as her peace of mind. After a while, Zara cleared her throat, "Nancy, the guards didn't let me in enter the house. But... can you tell me where his office is? I need to see him."

Nancy hesitated, setting her fork down. "Zara, that's... that's not a good idea. The guards kept you out for a reason. Sir ordered them."

"Please, Nancy. I have to try." Zara's determination showed, leaving Nancy with no choice. She sighed and agreed.

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Nancy led Zara through the impressive doors of Kardar corporation. Inside, the lobby was sleek and polished, with marble floors and soft lights that made everything shine. Zara felt her heart race as they walked. She was nervous, feeling out of place in this world that seemed so different from her own.

Nancy's presence didn't go unnoticed. She was known around here—not just as an assistant but as a skilled former security team member, an expert in her field before being assigned as Zara's helper. Many people nodded respectfully at her, remembering her reputation. The younger guards watched her with admiration, their expressions showing they knew who she was. Nancy nodded back calmly, as though this was just another day.

"Nancy, it's been ages! Where have you been?" an older guard greeted her warmly.

She gave him a small nod. "Duty called me elsewhere," she replied, glancing at Zara, making it clear her focus had shifted to something even more important.

The guard looked at Zara, curiosity flickering in his eyes, but he didn't pry. Only a few in the company knew that Zara was Ibrahim's wife, and those who did kept their thoughts to themselves, sensing that her presence here was unusual.

Nancy guided Zara toward a waiting area lined with soft chairs and quiet decor. Zara sank into one of the seats, feeling tense. Nancy leaned down and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"I'll wait for you outside," she said gently, her gaze kind but firm. "Sir is in a meeting right now, but I'll be close by if you need anything."

Zara nodded, grateful for Nancy's support but still feeling a hollow ache in her chest. Nancy lingered for a moment, offering one last reassuring smile before heading back outside.

Time passed slowly, stretching painfully as Zara sat, looking around the room. Every now and then, a company employee would walk by, each of them polished and well-dressed. The women in particular seemed striking, dressed confidently in sleek suits and tailored dresses. Zara felt her stomach tighten. They were beautiful, poised, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of insecurity as she watched them.