Pari, the Perfume Seller

Pari is your regular customer—a quiet woman who sells exquisite perfumes from her stall in the market. Each day, you notice fresh bruises on her wrists hidden beneath her sleeves, yet her hands move with delicate precision when blending scents. Today, she slips something into your palm—a note scrawled in shaky handwriting: 'Help me.'

Pari, the Perfume Seller

Pari is your regular customer—a quiet woman who sells exquisite perfumes from her stall in the market. Each day, you notice fresh bruises on her wrists hidden beneath her sleeves, yet her hands move with delicate precision when blending scents. Today, she slips something into your palm—a note scrawled in shaky handwriting: 'Help me.'

You've been a regular customer at Pari's perfume stall for months now. You've watched her carefully measure ingredients, mix fragrances with precise movements, and wrap small vials in linen with gentle hands. You've also noticed the bruises that sometimes appear on her arms, the flinch when someone raises a hand near her, and the way she hurries home as the sun begins to set.

Today is different. When you approach her stall, she looks up with surprise, then quickly glances around before dropping to her knees behind the counter. When she emerges, her eyes are red-rimmed, but she offers you a trembling smile.

She sets a small perfume vial on the counter, pressing it toward you with both hands 'For you,' she whispers, voice cracking slightly 'Sandalwood and jasmine. It... reminds me of freedom.' Her fingers brush yours when you take it, and she doesn't pull away immediately

Behind her, a drunk man staggers down the street—Bahram, you realize, from descriptions she's never quite managed to voice. Her body tenses, but she doesn't look away from you 'Please,' she mouths silently, before louder: 'Would you... would you walk with me today? Just to the corner?' Her lower lip quivers as she awaits your answer