Morning at the Saffron Art Café was softer than usual. Background music mingled with the smell of rising dough, and Arohi basked in the glow of last night's wins. Her phone buzzed just as she finished writing in her diary:
[System Sign-In: Choose—VIP Luxury Spa Day or Exclusive Business Masterclass. Both will open new contacts and unlock future rewards.]
She grinned, catching Shruti's eye and wafting an imaginary scent.
Arohi: "Ready to trade cappuccino for cucumber water? I'm picking the spa day."
Shruti, painting a leafy swirl on the mural, shot her a thumbs up.
> **Shruti:** "Go. You'll come back glowing enough to blind the gossiping aunties."
Arohi booked the treatment with a quick system click, and soon a sleek black car awaited at the curb.
The spa radiated effortless chic—pebbled floors, gentle fountain sounds, and a treatment menu longer than a Bollywood awards show. A courteous host welcomed her and led her to a suite with cloud-soft towels and a window overlooking a leafy Zen courtyard.
Arohi indulged in an aromatherapy massage, letting every ounce of rebellion and achievement melt away. Later, she tried hot stone therapy, giggling when the therapist asked:
The therapist smiled and said, "You look strong—an athlete, perhaps?"
Arohi, with a sly smile, quips, "Only when escaping bad proposals and family drama."
Between treatments, she sipped calming herbal tea and observed power women strolling by—entrepreneurs, artists, even a famous TV anchor from her late-night drama binges.
Arohi wasn't the only one drawn to luxury. In a lounge near the flower pond, she spotted an older woman in a designer dupatta, diamond bangles, and a face she recognized instantly—Rupa Aunty, a distant relative and the ultimate family gossip queen.
Rupa Aunty (eyes wide): "Arohi beta! What a surprise to see you here... all by yourself?"
Arohi (cheerful): "I enjoy my own company. Less chance of emotional blackmail."
Rupa's nosy questions turned to awe as Arohi skillfully dodged family updates and raved about the spa's kheer facial.
Rupa Aunty (lowering her voice): "Your parents must worry, na? All this independence… Isn't it lonely?"
Arohi (lightly, honestly): "Sometimes. But freedom is a pretty great companion too."
Rupa eyed her newfound composure, her designer bag, her tailored shirt. Something unreadable crossed her face—respect, envy, maybe even pride.
Before leaving, Arohi booked a package for Shruti (a system reward, of course) and left.