NURIN POV
Elysium Art Residence Bomonti—Lobby
After a long ride from Rose Valley to my hotel, I could sense that Hamze was just as exhausted as I was. I do know how to drive, but I’m not used to handling a jeep—especially not in a foreign country like Turkey. And even if I could, I wasn’t feeling well enough to take the wheel anyway.
From a distance, I could already see my hotel and silently hoped that Hamze would soon get the rest he clearly deserved. Long drives are no easy task.
As we finally arrived, I felt my strength fading. My legs were so weak I could barely feel them. Still, I wanted to get out of the car on my own, without causing Hamze any more trouble. He’d already done so much for me. But before I could open the door, Hamze was already outside, rushing to help me.
I felt a little shy, but what could I do? This man was simply kindhearted.
As I stepped out, I said, “Thank you, but you really don’t have to do this. I can get out of the car just fine.”
He smiled warmly and replied, “I don’t mind doing little things for you. I’d like to walk you to your room, just to be sure you get there safely.”
I gave him a soft smile. “Please, I promise I can walk. Besides, I’m taking the elevator. Don’t worry too much.”
Judging by the look on his face, he wasn’t convinced. But I added gently, “Trust me on this,” and smiled again before slowly making my way toward the hotel entrance. I could feel his gaze on me, probably making sure I was truly okay.
Just as I reached the lobby, I saw him drive away. I found a sofa near the elevator and sank into it, grateful for a moment to gather my strength.
AYAZ POV
Elysium Art Residence Bomonti—the Bar
I knew Nurin wasn’t feeling well. No matter how many times I offered to help her to her room, she insisted she could manage on her own. That’s one of the things I admire most about her—her quiet strength. But that didn’t stop me from worrying.
From the trek through Love Valley to carrying her on my back and then the long drive from Rose Valley to her hotel—I could tell she wasn’t in good shape.
Once I saw her safely near the hotel lobby, I drove off to find parking, planning to wait nearby in the hotel bar.
As soon as I parked, I called Emir. “Salam, Emir. Are you at your hotel? ”
“I’m actually heading to the bar now,” he replied. “Could use a drink to keep my mind occupied.”
“Perfect,” I said. “I just parked—I’ll meet you there.” I ended the call and made my way inside.
I wasn’t entirely sure if Nurin had made it safely to her room. I thought about calling her, but I didn’t want to come across as overbearing—so I decided to wait. If something came up, I trusted she would reach out. That’s also why I chose to stay close by, at the bar.
The entrance to the bar was just to the right of the reception desk. I wasn’t stopped or questioned—most of the staff already recognized me as a regular. On top of that, being a well-known celebrity meant they usually avoided drawing attention that might create a scene. Still, out of courtesy and habit, I pulled my hood over my head and kept my gaze low, walking quietly to avoid being noticed by guests.
Once inside, I headed straight for the bar counter and sat there, unsure of what to order. For the first time in a long while, I was at a loss—I couldn’t decide what drink I wanted. It felt strange.
After waiting nearly thirty minutes with no sign of Emir, I finally ordered a glass of Four Seasons juice. Honestly, it was the first time I ever ordered juice at a bar instead of alcohol. But I had my reasons.
I was afraid that if Nurin called and needed help, I wouldn’t be able to support her properly if I were drunk. I couldn’t risk letting her down—not even by something as simple as the smell of alcohol on me.
Still, it puzzled me. Emir was never late. Ever. So why wasn’t he here yet?
I was starting to wonder if a girl was the reason Emir was running so late—maybe he got caught up with someone, or he was just taking forever deciding what to wear.
At the same time, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy that Nurin hadn’t called me either. The silence from both of them was starting to get to me. I felt restless and worried—almost sick with concern.