Scene opens with Asrar setting in a sandy patch of garden, a simple stick in her hand. Faint lines in the sand show the remnants of a drawing, now abandoned. She stares blankly ahead, then speaks softly to herself)
Asrar: (Whispering) "If only I can be like them..."
(Her face sadne slightly, her lower lip trembling. She stands up, brushing sand off her dress, and gazes up at the reddening sky. A deep sigh escapes her lips. She glances back down at the ground, scuffing the sand with the toe of her shoes.)
(Elara approaches, her steps quiet on the manicured lawn. She stops a few feet away from Asrar, her voice flat.)
Elara: asrar , it Dinner time.
(Asrar get startled slightly, her eyes widening in surprise She looks at Elara .)
Asrar: Oh. I… I didn't realize it was so late.
Elara :Another time. But don't stay outside too long, you'll catch a cold.
Asrar: (Sighing) Sorry. I just… I lose track of time.
Elara: I understand. It happens. Your father will be expecting you at the table.
(Elara's tone isn't unkind, but it's devoid of warmth. She doesn't offer a smile or a comforting word. She simply stands there, waiting.)
Asrar: (Hesitantly) Is… is he? He usually eats in his room.
Elara: He asked that you join him tonight. Now, come along. It's getting chilly.
(Elara turns and begins to walk back towards the villa, not waiting to see if Asrar follows. Asrar hesitates for a moment, looking back at the darkening sky, then back at the imposing villa looming in the distance. A mix of apprehension and a tiny sliver of hope flickers across her face. She slowly follows Elara, her small footsteps barely making a sound on the grass.
Walking along, her gaze fixed on the floor, a strange yet wonderful feeling bubbled within her – she was about to see her father. A slight blush colored her cheeks as she lifted her eyes, a small smile gracing her lips as she looked at the back of the maid's.
They reached the dining room.
Asrar standing hesitantly just inside the dining room doorway. Elara stands silently a few steps beside her.)