**Wednesday, Sheetal's booked hotel room — 8:35 a.m.**
The next morning, Rohit opened his eyes to the sharp sound of knocking on the door.
He sat up slowly. The space beside him was empty. Sheetal was gone.
For a moment he simply stared at the vacant side of the bed, the faint scent of her still lingering on the sheets. Then he noticed a clean towel left nearby. He wrapped it around his waist and walked to the door.
When he opened it, a hotel staff member stood outside. The man looked briefly surprised to see him, but quickly composed himself.
"Sir, the guest hours are over. The registered guest has already checked out. However, if you wish, you may extend the room for one more hour and order breakfast for a small additional fee."
Rohit frowned slightly as understanding settled in. Sheetal had already left. This was a hotel, not a place he could linger indefinitely.
He gave a short nod.
"I'll take the extra hour. Just the shower and breakfast."
"Very well, sir."
