DARK HORSE: REDEMPTION

Tasnim entered the room with a gentle 'Salam', but the silence was deafening. The pungent smell of cigar smoke assaulted her nostrils, making her wrinkle her nose in distaste. Where was it coming from? She hesitated, tempted to retreat to the kitchen, but the open balcony door drew her attention.

Curiosity propelled her forward. She approached the door, intending to close it, assuming the smell originated from outside. But what she saw froze her in place. Her gaze locked onto the scene before her, confusion etched on her face.

Disbelief clouded her mind, thoughts racing in disjointed fragments. What is happening? When? Why? How? The questions swirled, refusing to merge into a rational thought.

Tasnim's eyes remained fixed, her body immobile, as if time itself had paused.