Ananya Suri, a 28-year-old Thai, stepped into Dubai's sprawling airport, carrying her small suitcase and dreams of giving her family a better life in Thailand. It's not the first time he's moved away for work, but it's the biggest and most important step he's taken.
As she walked out of the terminal, Ananya made her way to where she would be picked up. The heat of the desert greeted him like a heavy blow, a reminder that he was far from the cool breeze of his home. Every step was mixed with trepidation and excitement, but the determination to succeed for his family prevailed.
Not long after, a black limousine pulled up in front of him. A middle-aged man, wearing a neat suit, came down and politely extended his hand. "Miss Suri? I am Ahmed, assistant of Mr. Khalid. Are you ready for a new chapter in your life?”
Ananya nodded, trying to hide her nervousness. Ahmed took her in the car, and they traveled to the mansion where she was to work. As they drove along the smooth roads of Dubai, Ananya couldn't help but admire the towering buildings and elegant scenery that make up the city's skyline.
When they arrived at the mansion, Ananya was greeted by an impressive building. It is large and modern, with a wide garden and a fountain in the middle of the driveway. As they entered, they were greeted by a woman with long gray hair, who introduced herself as Mrs. Almasi, the housekeeper of the Khalidi family.
“Welcome, Miss Suri. I will be your guide during your first days here," said Mrs. Almasi in a gentle tone. "I will introduce you to Mr. Khalid. He is in his office now.”
Ananya was led into a spacious office where a man sat with his back to the window, facing a large desk filled with papers and several electronic gadgets. Hearing the door open, the man slowly approached. It was James Khalidi, Ananya's employer.
James has a tall and muscular build, and his face reflects his mixed Arab-American heritage. His eyes, which seemed to be piercing, immediately made Ananya nervous.
“Miss Suri, thank you for coming. I hope you know the importance and weight of your responsibilities here,” James said in a cold and calm tone. Ananya nodded, trying to keep her voice calm. "Yes, Mr. Khalid. I will do everything to meet your expectations."
"Good," James replied, then looked back at his papers. “My father is in your care. I do not expect any shortcomings. Mrs. Almasi will give you a detailed tour of the house and explain your duties. If you have questions, he's the one you turn to.”
After their conversation, Ananya was led by Mrs. Almasi for the house tour. Mrs. explained Almasi inspected every part of the large home, from the bedrooms to the kitchen, and introduced him to the rest of the staff as well.
On her first night, as she was getting ready for bed in her new room, a call from James suddenly changed the course of the night. "Miss Suri, I need you in my father's office, immediately."