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In the parking lot, Elena was waiting near Samaira’s sleek black car. As soon as Samaira approached, she handed her some documents.

“I’ve taken care of everything, President.”

“Good.”

She slipped into the backseat, instructing the driver to leave. As the car rolled forward, she exhaled slowly. The weight pressing down on her chest never seemed to lift. She popped open the pill bottle and swallowed a tablet with a sip of water. Resting her head against the seat, she closed her eyes, allowing exhaustion to take over.

Memories from the past flooded her mind like an old movie reel.

“Happy birthday to you… Happy birthday dear Aisha!”

A room filled with laughter. A table decorated with balloons and flowers. A little girl in a floral dress standing in front of a cake, her bright eyes full of excitement.

Samaira, a tiny version of herself, stood beside her sister, grinning as she fed her a piece of cake.

“Happy birthday, Aish.”

“Thank you, Sam!” Aisha beamed, squeezing her younger sister’s hand.

A playful voice interrupted. “Ahh, you little Joey!”

A boy in a crisp white shirt and trousers stole the last bite from Samaira’s hand, grinning mischievously. The room erupted in laughter.

“Our Aishu is ten years old now,” their mother said warmly.

“Yes, Mamma! I’m a big girl now!” Aisha declared proudly.

Their father stepped forward. “Now, who wants presents?”

“Me, Daddy!” Aisha jumped excitedly.

“Me too, Daddy!” their cousin Joey chimed in, just as eager.

The curtains were drawn back, revealing a mountain of toys. But Aisha’s expression faltered when she looked at Samaira.

“You didn’t bring anything for me?”

Her voice wavered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Samaira lowered her head, feigning disappointment, before slowly bringing her hands forward.

Aisha gasped. “Candies!”

She clutched them to her chest, jumping up and down as if she had received the most precious gift in the world.

Their father chuckled. “Princess, you don’t like our gifts?” he asked in mock sadness.

Aisha giggled. “No, they’re nice… But these candies are my favorite. And Sammy is my favorite too!”

Joey pouted. “And me?”

Aisha sighed dramatically. “Fine, you too… but less than Sammy.”

Laughter filled the room once again.

Samaira smiled in her sleep—until a voice pulled her back to reality.

“Ma’am… Ma’am.”

Her driver’s voice was low and hesitant.

“We’ve arrived.”

She opened her eyes slowly, the warmth of the memory fading into the cold truth of the present.

It was just a dream. She’s not here. And she never will be again, Sam.

Pushing the pain aside, she stepped out of the car, her gaze lifting to the imposing white mansion before her.

A masterpiece of pure marble, its grandeur was undeniable. Towering columns, vast glass windows, and intricate carvings made it seem almost ethereal under the moonlight. It was a symbol of power and success, admired by many.

But to her, it was a hollow monument to a life she no longer had.

A prison of memories she could never escape.

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