The storm raged mercilessly outside, lightning slashing jagged streaks across the sky, illuminating the sprawling mansion for fleeting moments before darkness swallowed it again. Rain lashed against the tall glass windows, and the wind howled like a feral beast. Inside, the dim golden light of the chandelier flickered softly, casting fractured shadows that danced along the silk-draped walls.

The room smelled faintly of rain, aged wood, and the lingering musk of Aarav's cologne—a rich, smoky scent that clung to the very air Mehreen breathed. It was maddening.