LET ME HATE YOU

New Day

Was she calling to taunt her for her lateness, or was she warning her about the rules? Asmaira had seen the Hashmi family at her wedding, and from their expressions, she was sure no one was fond of her.

Maya, watching her, was already convinced the woman scurrying ahead of her would never be comfortable in the mansion or with the Hashmis' lifestyle. Even setting aside her humble background, her lack of confidence and nervous demeanor were a stark contrast to Amaan's first wife, who had been the epitome of elegance and poise. The woman before her was the complete opposite of what Amaan typically liked.

No wonder he was against the marriage, Maya thought, forcing a smile.

"Ma'am wishes to formally welcome you to the family. She insisted no one was to disturb you for breakfast."

When Asmaira sighed, Maya asked, "Do you need time to change?"

"No," Asmaira said instantly. Maya's smile faltered, noticing her simple outfit. Wasn't a new bride expected to be dressed up for her first morning?

Maya, nonetheless, escorted Asmaira to Feriha's study. They passed numerous maids on the way, and like Maya, everyone's face registered surprise at Asmaira's plainness. They were accustomed to seeing the Hashmis dressed to the nines; a simpleton like her among them was astonishing.

Asmaira, on the other hand, was grateful to be guided by Maya. She knew she would get lost if left alone. The mansion's grandeur was both terrifying and mesmerizing. Mesmerizing because of its interior decoration and the collection of art that screamed wealth and class. Terrifying because she was sure she would lose her way and become a laughing stock. Lost in her own thoughts, she was oblivious to the judging stares from behind her.

Maya stopped in front of a brass door and knocked once.

"Come in," a calm voice called from inside. Maya opened the door and ushered her in.

"Ma'am. She is here."

"Thank you, Maya. You may go now."

When Asmaira raised her eyes, she saw an elegant woman rising from the chair. Just like her voice, her face radiated a calmness Asmaira had never witnessed before. Feriha was smiling at her, and Asmaira's heart ached at the recollection of her own mother.

Maya was immediately surrounded by curious maids as soon as she stepped out.

"Why was she wearing such a simple dress?"

"How is she?"

"I saw Amaan Sir leaving last night, and he didn't seem to be in a good mood. Did something happen?"

"She isn't like her."

They bombarded her with the questions that had bothered them since they saw Asmaira. However, if Maya was sure of one thing, it was that Feriha was an intelligent woman and would never have chosen Asmaira if she wasn't worthy. Feriha's decisions were always based on foresight. And Maya's instinct was telling her Asmaira would change things in the Hashmi mansion for the better.

"We are not getting paid for gossip," she announced sternly, making the group grumble.

She looked at the closed door, wondering what was happening inside.

"Did you have a good sleep?" Feriha asked, sitting on the couch across from Asmaira. Her experienced eyes didn't miss the way the girl was clutching her dress and avoiding eye contact. The slight trembling of her finger showed she was afraid of her.

"Yes," Asmaira lied, averting her gaze. She couldn't maintain eye contact while telling a falsehood.

"You must be hungry. Let me tell Maya to get your food here."