"Let them go," it was Shehryaar who spoke, and her face jolted up to stare at him with wide

eyes. The men, awaiting his command, immediately lowered their weapons and held the

three of them by their arms, making them stand.

They were heaving sighs of relief, taking deep breaths and continuously reciting prayers of

thankfulness.

"Leave," he said, and within seconds, the room was empty, leaving them both alone.

As the door closed, she looked at him. "Why did you stop?" she asked.

A memory.

A ...