Nurin POV
Elysium Art Residencer Bomonti
I needed to stop by the pharmacy to refill my medication and restock my organizer. It’s moments like this that make me realize how helpful it would be to have a travel companion—someone to support me with small, everyday things. But I chose this solo trip to learn how to stand on my own and experience independence, even just for a while.
After showering and blow-drying my hair, I got dressed in my army-green long-sleeve dress, layered with a salmon-brown long cardigan. I paired it with my Stan Smith sneakers and a pastel brown scarf—comfortable but stylish. With my bag in hand, I headed out the door.
I remembered Emir’s invitation for dinner tonight. I still hadn’t made up my mind about going. He did seem genuinely sorry for how he acted earlier, but right now, I needed to get my medicine first.
I took the elevator down and stepped outside, walking to the bus stop. The wait seemed long, so when I saw a taxi approaching, I waved it down and hopped in. My Turkish still isn’t great, and I struggled a bit with the conversation.
“Where are you going?” the driver asked, apologetically. “Sorry, my English is very bad.”
“Oh, that’s okay,” I replied with a smile. “Just take me to the nearest pharmacy.”
“Okay. Pharmacy. Thank you,” he said, nodding.
After a few minutes, we arrived. I hoped this pharmacy would have everything I needed. As I stepped out of the taxi, I smiled and asked the driver, “Is there a park nearby? I’d love to take a walk.”
“Not a park,” he said, “but there’s a nice bay view not far from here. Just walk straight and turn left—you’ll see the sea. It’s safe around here, just be mindful of pickpockets.”
“Thank you,” I replied gratefully.
Fingers crossed—I’m really hoping he doesn’t insist on coming with me. I can already tell it would be awkward, and to be honest, I’m starting to question my actions earlier. This isn’t how I used to be back when I was in Malaysia.
Ayaz's POV – Ayaz Foundation School of Arts, Conference Room
Everyone had arrived early for our meeting. My manager, Mert Hüseyin, was there along with three members of the team—and Zeynep Amet, my girlfriend… or rather, the woman I publicly act as a couple with. It’s all for the fans. We’ve built a convincing image together. I care about her and respect her, and yes, she’s genuinely in love with me. But I’ve been holding up this illusion, hoping that maybe—someday—it might become real. Deep down, though, I know I can’t fully commit.
I was seated on one of the couches, not far from where Zeynep sat. Mert was across from us with the rest of the team. He handed me a sheet and said, “Ayaz, here’s a list of the projects lined up for you. Six films and four TV series. But let me be clear—these aren’t exclusive offers. Four other actors are ready to take your place if you mess this up.”
I scanned the list and responded, “I’ll go with three films and one series. I don’t want to overwhelm myself right after my military service.”
Suddenly, the room went quiet. I wasn’t sure what I had said that caused the tension.
“What’s the issue?” I asked.
Zeynep cleared her throat before speaking. “Ayaz, management wants you to step back from the foundation. They’re concerned you’re investing too much time here instead of your career. You’re even turning down projects for this.”
I froze. “I don’t understand. Everything I do as an actor is for this foundation. That’s what keeps me going.”
“You might want to reconsider,” she said gently. “Otherwise, you risk losing your acting career altogether.”
That hit hard. I stood up, frustrated. “I just got out of military service, and this is what you choose to say to me? I need some air. I need to think.”
I stormed out of the conference room. As I passed through the lobby, students greeted me—but I couldn’t bring myself to acknowledge them. I was too upset.
These students have dreams, and this foundation gives them the chance to pursue them. I can’t just take that away—it would crush them.
I got into my car and started driving, not even knowing where I was headed. I just needed to clear my mind.
Eventually, I ended up at a bay view—a place I hadn’t visited in years. The last time I was here, I was filming a movie and a series. Nothing much had changed. It was still quiet, peaceful, and calm. Just me and the sea.
 I hadn’t realized my foundation was so close by—maybe it’s a sign that I still need some time off, especially since I’ve just returned from my mandatory military service leave.