Inara
MAIN VILLA
9:45 a.m.
"Inara, wake up."
Maria’s voice wakes me. I open my eyes with difficulty after this night. She’s turned away, tidying up my dresser.
"Does Khalid need me?"
"Yes, he wants to talk to you."
"Is Hakim here?"
"He didn’t sleep here."
What do you mean he didn’t sleep here? Wasn’t he supposed to be here last night, that’s what Alexander told me, isn’t it?
I walk over to Maria to kiss her forehead but she steps back, avoiding all contact with me. I’m surprised by her behavior since she’s usually so caring and affectionate towards me.
"What’s wrong, Maria? Did I do something wrong?"
"No, my darling… I’m just sick, I wouldn’t want to infect you."
Her voice is barely audible, like she’s been crying or screaming. What kind of excuse is that? Maria would never ha
