A Scandalous Encounter

“It’s There in Black and White”

The thought of Sanem not accepting his offer had definitely thrown him for a loop. His mind reeling and his heart hurting, he couldn’t think of going home right now. He needed to hear noise and other people talking so he couldn’t hear his own voice. I’ll just have a drink or two and head to the mountain hut, maybe I’ll just pass out and get some sleep.

He sat alone at the bar not knowing how long, staring and thinking of how totally opposite the day had gone from what he had planned. Emre was the only one that know his plan for the day and was just as upset as he was at the outcome.

When Emre made it home, he was met by Huma at the door. Already hearing a rumor of trouble between Can and Sanem, she was anxious to get the story and knew she could get from Emre.

With Emre filling her in on the details of Cans offer and Sanem’s refusal, she can hardly contain herself. She makes a quick phone call to Ceyda and is more than happy to relay the news. Suggesting than Can may need a little company and someone to lift his spirits, if she got her point…..

Huma was thinking of a wonderful plan for Can and Ceyda if she could convince Ceyda to go along with it. Desperate to remove Sanem from Cans’ life, any thoughts of the consequences had not surfaced in her mind. The only thing that mattered to her was to relinquish any hold the pathetic little village girl had on her son.

Thinking of the prominence and the stature that the union of Can and Ceyda would bring to her family had her beaming.

Her plan needed a little more finessing and she thought the convincing of Ceyda to play her role would be the least of her concerns. If there was nothing she knew for sure, she did know what an unscrupulous woman looked like, one willing to do whatever it took to get what she wanted.

Knowing her son, it would more than likely take him a day or two to process the rejection so that would give her time to set it all up.

With Humas’ suggestion for Ceyda to offer a “shoulder to cry on” per say to Can, had met with much enthusiasm. This was the first step and perhaps the most crucial. Gain his confidence in the hand of friendship and let me do the rest, Huma smirked.

Ceyda called Cans’ phone with the innocence of offering him a little companionship. Letting him know that she too had been though a rough day and needed to unwind. Can’s mind still clouded from the day’s events and sadness in his heart, he agreed for her to join him. Not really thinking much past his own feelings or what implications might arise. “Super!” she exclaimed. “I’m already on the street so throw me the address and will arrive shortly.”

When she walked inside, she spotted him immediately, sitting at the bar in all his masculine glory. Her thoughts were of Sanem and of what a mistake that poor girl had made. It was indeed going to be a pleasure to see the look on her face when Can was by her side, knowing she had given him to her on a platter.

He had welcomed her but with a coolness that didn’t resonate to her feelings. Continuing to play the part of a very compassionate friend, she remained focused on his feelings and getting him to open up about his problems. Clearly not wanting to discuss his personal life and relationships with her, he distanced himself and started playing a game of darts. Not wanting to jeopardize the plan for the evening, she changed the discussion to a work theme in hopes to relief his tension a little.

She brought up a thought of maybe putting a different spin on the campaign they had been working on. They were also developing a new product in the line and she needed his input. He was beginning to take some interest and she could see him start to relax. Okay it looks like we’re going to have to take the work route. Not exactly the way I wanted it but I’ll get there just the same.

Sanem needing to hear his voice and reassure herself that they could talk through this, desperately needed to call him. She was worried and didn’t want to wait too long to reach out to him. After all she was his girlfriend and she was allowed to call him. Did she have to have a reason to call? No, she did not.

Can answered on the second ring, asking if everything was all right. She assured him things were fine and that she was just calling to see what he was doing. He told her he was at the bar having a few drinks and no need to worry. That was slightly out of the ordinary for him but after the day they had she thought might be appropriate. She asked if he was alone, thinking maybe Alif or one of his other buddies had gone with him. He told her that Ceyda had showed up to join him. The panic instantly set in; “Well since your busy I will not keep you, have a nice evening.” she stammered.

She disconnected and sat in shock; did he say Ceyda? Ceyda, oh my god, he said Ceyda!

The rest of the night was a full-fledged nightmare and her thoughts were rampant with what might be. When the morning finally came, the daylight revealed the continuation of her nightmare. She made her way to the office hoping for a sign that the night before had been an over work of her imagination.

Can arrived a few minutes after her and his entrance was subdued and solemn. There was not as his usual energetic welcome to the staff. She hurried to the drink station to make his tea as she did every morning and took it to his office.

She tapped on the door and entered the room. “Gunaydin!” she said. He returned the greeting and thanked her for the tea. Standing for a minute, hoping to talk, he explained he had a lot of work to do for Compass Sports and it needed his full attention. Slowly she turned hoping he would stop her before she reached the door, but he didn’t.

Emre watched the encounter from his office, not understanding the reason for his brother to act so harshly. Entering his brother’s office, he asked him how things were with Sanem. Can, visibly upset, blurted out his feelings of hurt and of not understanding her rejection. He had laid out his heart to her and all of his intentions of love. Yet he felt she was keeping something from him, which hurt him more than anything.

Emre urged him to think about her side. These feelings were new to her and like any woman, they had a tendency to look at the big picture and maybe she just needed more time.

After going over in his mind all that had transpired between them, whether it be from outside influence or from miscommunication, he knew without a doubt his love for her was true and would be for the rest of life.

Sanem came to say goodnight at the end of the day and asked his plans for the evening. He told her he had a business meeting with Compass Sports to work on some new developments. A stab of jealousy waved through her. Again, with Ceyda. She realized the need to stay calm and trust him but it was putting her to the test.

With that she started to leave but Can lovingly took her hand and whispered to her, “Sanem my love, though I may not fully understand all your concerns and reservations, I certainly respect your opinion. We have found each other and have withstood many obstacles already to prove our deep love for one another. I feel you need more time to learn to trust your heart and to let us flow together and as long as we keep holding on to each other our journey will last forever.”

Her heart was the fullest it had ever been and the future shone bright. As she left for the day she was utterly and totally happy…

Huma had been busy all day putting the finishing touches on the plan she had conjured up. The hatred of Sanem had overshadowed everything else, even the possible destruction of her own son. He would thank her in the end and his life with Ceyda would become a social phenomenon. This called for extreme measures and what her and Ceyda had orchestrated was to say the least, brilliant.

Ceyda met her for a late lunch and for last minute instructions. Can would do his regular gym workout before going home, which usually got him home around 7:00pm. She informed Can of her dinner plans and would be out of the house by 6:30, as he rarely liked to spend time at home if she was there. Their meeting was set for 8:00pm. It didn’t include dinner, just drinks some snacks if they got hungry. All the food preparations had been taken care of by Huma and left in the kitchen.

It had to be precise for the plan to come together. At the first sign of the effects of the drink, she would have to act quickly. Make sure she was able to get him down the hall to his room and undressed before he passed out. Huma assured Ceyda that she would be close by waiting if she should need help. The zolpidem powder would dissolve instantly in his drink and Huma was promised there was no taste. Normally it reacted within 30 minutes but it might take longer because of Can’s size. She was instructed to use the full bag of powder and that the only side effect afterwards consisted of maybe a headache.

Can came in from the gym and found the note in the kitchen. I made snacks for you. They are in the fridge. Gone to dinner with friends. Will be home late….

“Good she’s gone,” he muttered, “If only I didn’t have this meeting, I might be able to relax.”

His thoughts immediately went to Sanem and how happy he was that they had cleared the air today. All he wanted was to enjoy them as a couple and spend time with her. He tired of all the deception and lies. Can made his way to the shower and to get ready for his meeting with Ceyda.  

As promised Huma was hidden outside of the gate waiting for Ceyda to arrive. The taxi pulled up and let her out, looking around for Huma she had a wave of excitement sweep over her. She had been waiting for this so long, finally it was going to happen. Undoubtedly not the way she would have liked for it to be, but she knew she could make Can very happy. She never knew what he saw in that naïve little girl anyway.

Huma called to Ceyda from behind the hedge and motioned her to her hiding spot. “My photographer, Berk, will be here shortly so let’s get our timing right,” Huma whispered. “You need to put the powder in his drink by 8:30 so it has time to work. When you see effects starting you will need to quickly get him to his room. It will go fairly fast after that, so remove his clothes and position him in his bed. You will also need to undress and get in position. Text my phone when you’re ready and I will bring in the photographer. Oh, and don’t forget to leave those earrings in the bed. You and Berk will probably get six or seven photos in different poses so be sure and make them count. I’m not sure what time Emre is to return home so we need to get in and out.”

They sat at the table with his laptop and the Compass Sports file going over the new products. They both had their drinks but not the snacks. Ceyda, looking at her phone for the time and seeing it was 8:26, abruptly spoke, “I’m famished! I just realized I’ve not eaten all day.” 
“We have some snacks ready if you would care for some.” Can replied.

“Perfect!” she exclaimed, ‘and just in the nick of time,’ she thought.

Can went to the kitchen to grab the food and Ceyda hurriedly dumped the packet into his glass. It immediately disappeared without a trace. Her heart started racing and her palms started sweating. She stayed poised and waited for him to return.

With his drink being half consumed and the rest of the glass mixed of sleeping drug it would prove to be a quick process

Can was not accustomed to taking a sleeping aid so the drug worked faster than anticipated. She reacted quickly and helped to his room with him rambling on about not feeling well and his confusion of what was happening. Getting him undressed and ready in the bed had not been an easy task for her and might have impossible if she herself wasn’t physically fit.

“Well that’s finally done,” she huffed. Stepping back for a second to admire him and letting her thoughts go to where they had many times before, “This is just the beginning Can,” she whispered, “I will be patient and all will be rewarded to me. I always get what I want.”

Slowly undressing next to his bed as if in a trance and letting her clothes fall, she slid on the bed beside his body. He radiated such a heat it was almost suffocating and her mind again replayed all the dreams of her imagination.

The ping of her phone brought her back with a jolt, Huma was asking her if all was done and if she was ready for the photographer. She replied they were in place and ready to go.

The pounding of his head woke him, but not able to open his eyes or to clear his mind he remained still. Thinking that he was probably coming down with something he rolled over to look at the time. Squinting slightly just to see his clock and realizing it was 9:30, but unable to shake the grogginess. He lay motionless and desperately tried to remember the night before. He would have to get up and make it to the shower, maybe that would help. Already two hours late for work he would have to make himself move.

Finally showered and dressed he went to the kitchen for tea. It seemed Emre and Huma had both left for the day and hadn’t try to wake him. The headache had subsided and he was able to think clearer. Going to the bedroom to retrieve his keys and phone he noticed an earring on the bed, stepping closer he picked it up, and in doing that he stepped on the matching one on the floor. His head swirling and confused tried to piece it all together. The knot in his stomach grew larger as he panicked at the thought of what might have happened.

The phone made him jump and drop the earrings. He grabbed it to see who was calling.

“Hello Emre,” he grunted, “what’s the problem?”

Emre defensively replied, “There’s no problem. I was just seeing if you’re doing OK. Are you coming in today? Sanem was worried about you so I told her I would call and make sure things were good.”

Hearing Sanem’s name caused a sudden rush of pain and guilt to consume him.

“Yes Emre, I’m on my way. I’ll see you soon.”

“How can I look her in the eye not knowing what transpired the night before? Well, I actually wouldn’t be able to, she will sense something is wrong. Maybe nothing happened at all.” He didn’t know for sure and didn’t want to jump to any conclusions.

Huma had hurriedly left the house that morning before Can woke and was ready to take care of the business at hand. Making a trip to the photo shop to develop the pictures herself as to not bring attention from anyone, she decided to make a few copies just in case. With the job done she called Ceyda who was anticipating her call with much enthusiasm. Hearing that Huma had the pictures and wanted to meet sent a shiver of excitement though her.

“I can’t wait to see them!”, she gushed. “I hope they look as good as they felt.” Feeling the sense of empowerment that always seemed to drive her over the top.

With Cans’ late start of the day and the schedule hectic it was fairly easy to unconsciously avoid Sanem for the most of the day. By midafternoon, she made her way in to his office with his tea. “Come on Mr. Boss,” she teased, “Let’s take a break and relax.” With a quick smile and without eye contact, he reached for the tea and thanked her for bothering him. Confused, she bent down slightly to look at his face and whispered, “Hey what’s going on? Did I miss something or misunderstand yesterday?” She turned on her defensive mode and waited for his answer. “That must have been what happened,” she blurted, jerking around to leave.

“No, Sanem wait!” he cried, “It’s me. I’m sorry. I had a bad night and woke not feeling well but it has nothing to do with you bebek. I’m sorry, let’s sit and talk at minute.”

She sat, still not having her anger in check and not knowing for sure if she believed his excuse. He took her hand and ask her if she would like to have a quick dinner after work and then he could take her home. “We have to make more time for us,” he said, looking in her eyes, his soul full of the unknown guilt he tried to hide. She kissed his cheek and accepted his offer. “Great!” he shouted. “We’ll take off in a couple of hours so let me get all this work finished up.”

She closed his door and mumbled looking back at him. “There’s more, why does there always have to be more with us. When are we ever going to get to the flow together?”

Ceyda sat staring at the photos in amazement at how good they looked together. They were beautiful and if he didn’t see then he was blind. Huma was reveling in her own glory of the impact she was about to make in her son’s life. “Of course he may rebel at first,” she thought, but she was his mother and she knew what was best for him.

“Okay Ceyda, let’s give it a little time before you visit him again. Not too long though, just enough time for him to think that nothing happened. You will need to ask about your earrings, and if Sanem could be present for the conversation it would definitely help the outcome. It’s all about strategy my dear, and you will learn this as we go along,” she beamed. Ceyda focused on her, studied her, and thought how glad she was that she wasn’t on the receiving end of her wrath.

Can and Sanem sat at their favorite restaurant on the coast. It was quaint, nothing fancy at all, just great fish and the same great people. They molded together there in such a way they seemed as one, all the demands made of them from the outside world dispersed as if there was none. They held each other and Sanem pleading with him said, “Don’t ever let go of me.” Love brimmed his heart and he said, “Even if I do let go, my heart never will. You are my one and only love.”

They finished their meal and walked along the coast to steal more time to be alone, Afterwards, he drove home going over the night before and trying to piece it together.

Sanem was sitting at her desk with her notebook and pen posturing her thoughts of the day as she usually did. The nagging events that traveled around in her head left her wary of what was to come. Can had not been himself today, she worried, I just have a feeling, can’t but my finger on it.

Huma welcomed Can home and attempted to make a conversation to determine the mood he was in. He was withdrawn and preoccupied and excused himself to his room. Smiling, she thought, “It’s going to get a lot worse before it gets better son, but it will get better. One more day and round two begins.” She really hated to see her son this way but the reaction this would have on Sanem made it all worth it.

The next day brought more meetings and a proposal for a campaign with Redmon Cosmetics, a very large company and one that would define the agency for quite some time. Mr. Mekken, and head of the company, requested a meeting the next day to discuss the offer. At one point Can had heard that Ceyda was friends of Mr. Mekken and he hoped she hadn’t been responsible for the interest in the agency.

Needing the hit the gym before going home, he and Sanem spent a few minutes alone in his office and then went their separate ways. He promised to text before going to bed to say goodnight. The workout was a good one, releasing a lot of tension. He made his way home ready to shower and turn in for the night. Stretching out in his bed he reached for his phone to text: “I miss you bebek, sweet dreams……”

Sanem looked at her phone and smiled, “My dreams will be sweet because they will be of you………”

The meeting with Mr. Mekken was set for 2:00 and he hoped it to be a good one. This account would bring much attention to the agency and secure their future. The staff was exuberant and spirits were high. He arrived on time with Ceyda in tow, moving though the office with arrogance and determination, she entered Can’s office and demandingly hugged him and gave him a kiss alarmingly close to his lips. It took him by surprise and he backed away. She took his arm and brought him back closer to her not willing to relinquish her hold on him. Sanem in her usual spot outside the office is witnessing the entire display. Fuming, she looked to CeyCey saying, “She’s crossing the line in there and I’m not going to have it!” CeyCey calmed her down and assured her that Can would take care of it. Can was completely taken back by her actions and embarrassed in front of Mr. Mekken. He finally broke free from her and took his seat on the other side of the table.

The meeting was productive and very positive. They would work up a campaign and present it to the board within two weeks. With the meeting ending, Ceyda knew she needed to get Sanem into the office before she could layout the bait of the plan. Ceyda suggested that Can bring Sanem in to see if she had a different perspective on the campaign, and Can welcomed the chance to have Sanem by his side.

He stepped out of this office and ask Sanem to join them for the conclusion of the meeting. Sanem immediately made her way to his office to offer her support and the appearance of unity. Can valued all the input that came from Sanem and thought her to be extremely talented. He was proud of her and knew she would have a lot to add to the new campaign.

Quickly recapping the meeting for Sanem and bringing her up to speed, Ceyda inquired if she might have an opinion of the upcoming cosmetic advert. Sanem, being caught off guard a bit, offered up a hasty idea. Mr. Mekken readily received the freshness of her concept and prompted her to further develop her ideas. Can, obviously pleased and proud of her, assured him they would have a full campaign ready for him in short time.

Ceyda waited until Sanem reached the office door before saying, “Can, I believe I have lost my earrings at your home the night of our meeting! Did you happen to find them?” The silence was deafening. Sanem turned to glare into his face and was met with a look of terror in his eyes. What more could be said? She exited the office and returned to her desk. It was as if her mind and body were separate. Still seeing only his eyes in her mind but her body walking to leave the building, she was in a complete, total shock.

Can stood in a frozen state, staring at the door in disbelief of what had just happened. Ceyda chattered about and again gave Can an intimate hug and kiss, telling him to look around for her earrings and let her know. Unable to speak or react, he watched them exit his office. The look in her eyes was permanently tattooed in his mind. What had transpired that night at his house for her to have lost her earrings? He had no recollection of it at all. How would Sanem believe him when he knew nothing himself.

Sanem walked what seemed like miles before stopping to rest on a bench at a park. Glancing around she didn’t recognize the neighborhood so she caught a taxi. Her phone brought her out of her thoughts. Looking to see who was calling, she saw Ceyda’s name appear. The roar of her heart yelling at her not to answer was replaced with her logic of wanting to hear her explanation. 

A calm waved over her and she coolly answered, “Yes Ceyda, can I help you?” Ceyda responded to her with sarcasm, “Is everything alright Sanem? You left in quite a hurry, I’m just a little concerned. Sorry you had to hear about Can and I this way, but it was never going to be easy.”

Sanem shouted, “And what exactly was I to hear Ceyda? Your insinuation that you and Can are a couple now? Thank you but I will reserve my opinion on that until I get an explanation from Can!”

She disconnected the call and covered her face with both hands, I knew there was more to the distant and unrecognizable mood he had been in the last few days.

Can finally forced his legs to move and walked out to look for Sanem. ‘What do I say?’ his mind racing to think, ‘She has to believe that I wouldn’t do anything like that.’ Ceyda was the furthest thing from his mind and had never considered her in the least.

Where has she gone?

It was her way to run from him but she had to listen to him. He tried her phone and to his surprise she answered.

“Can, please give me a day to collect myself and then we will talk. I’ll call you tomorrow and we can discuss everything then.”

She disconnected without letting him speak. Devastated, he drove home and buried himself in guilt and heartbreak. Huma came in and instantly berated him with the way he had handled the meeting that day with Mr. Mekken and Ceyda. She told him he should take better care of the agency’s top clients and she hoped that it didn’t cause a problem. He had had enough; yelling at her to stay out of company business and his way of “taking care of clients” was none of her business.

Huma, with a smirk, told him maybe he needed to do what was best for the agency and assume the role that some of the clients wanted. Can was fuming and stormed to his room. That was never going to happen. When did that sort of thing become proper in business? He laid on his bed praying for any recollection of that evening. Sanem’s face scrolling thru his brain and the hurt that had been so visible in her eyes. Without any other choice but to wait for her call, he prepared his body for a night of restlessness and sorrow.

Ceyda made a quick phone call to Huma to report the progress of the plan. She relayed to her that the call to Sanem didn’t quite go as expected so the next step would have to be implemented. She took Sanem’s address from Huma in order to proceed.

Ceyda placed the pictures in a large envelope along with a note written “These should take care of any questions you might have for Can or myself. I always get what I want………Ceyda.”

Giving instructions to the courier for an early morning delivery, she dressed and headed to her office. Waiting for the confirmation that the envelope made it to its destination had Ceyda on edge. Finally, she received the text that it was done. ‘It shouldn’t be long now’, she thought. This was more fun that she anticipated. Huma had succeeded in ridding their family of that little gold digger and the feeling was overwhelming. Now just to get Can to face the reality of what was best for him.

Sanem still sorting through the conversation that occurred in Can’s office and the sting of each word, she tried to keep a degree of sanity. Her mother called her down to sign for a letter, a bit of fear nudged into her heart. ‘What would be coming to her here, if it was work related why hadn’t it gone to the agency?’ She had an uncomfortable feeling so decided to open the envelope in her room.

Sanem sat in her bed crossing her legs and dreading to open the envelope. She slid out the pictures along with the note, reading the note first. The words sliced at the heart ripping and tearing with a vengeance.

Gazing at the photos in utter disbelief and she felt her insides twist and turn. Becoming physically sick she made her way to the bathroom to rid herself of the horror she had seen. There was no denying what was in black and white but the need to face Can for confirmation is consuming her. Putting the photos back in the envelope, she rolled her body into a ball and covered her head with her pillow to muffle her screams. Heaving and frantic at the thought of hearing his voice she knew she had to call him.

Answering on the first ring and so happy she had called, he felt exuberant. In a tight and strained voice, she asked if he was home alone. He confirmed he was and they agreed to meet there and talk.

A feeling of emptiness crept into her soul and she feared she would lose her ability to rationally listen to him. ‘Don’t shut down, don’t harden your heart until you hear him out.’

The taxi ride was grueling to say the least, but she arrived and rang the bell. Rushing to the door he opened it to see her standing there with a look of abandonment and hurt. He encircled her body with his arms for his own comfort but she was cold and nonresponsive. Pulling her in the door he led her to the couch and still without a word she sat down. Can nervously stroked her shoulder and along her arm asking her if she was ok. The lack of response echoed in the room. She methodically reached for the envelope in her bag and handed it to him. Glaring as with hot coals into his soul she coldly spoke, “Can, I will graciously award you the chance to explain what is in this envelope, something that you never allowed of me.”

Unable to register a full breath and his mind full of confusion he took the envelope. Sliding out the photos he stared, and there it was, all that he had feared, came crashing down on him. All he could do was cry and beg her forgiveness, insisting that he had no recollection of what happened that evening. Finally lifting his head to meet her face and the icy glare she said, “Why did it have to be her, after all she had done to me? It would have been easier if it had been Polen, at least you had a past with her but Ceyda, that’s just a slap in the face.” She stood shaking her head and told him she hoped it was worth it. “Oh, by the way the pictures are yours,” she said. “They are permanently embedded in my memory.”

She walked to the door with Can calling after her, she stopped and he took her arm, “Sanem something just isn’t right about this. I don’t remember any of it, you have to believe me!” A part of her wanted to believe him and wanted to trust him. She did know that Ceyda would stop at nothing to destroy what was between her and Can.

Can clung to her not allowing her to leave. “You must know that I see only you, I feel only you, without you I am not.” Sanem remaining calm replied, “I truly do want to feel your words as the truth but as your only explanation is that of uncertainty my heart will continue to break.” She broke from his hold and walked out the door. As she made her way to the gate, she turned helpless of her feelings, “If you believe something is wrong with this you need to find out what is right.”

At that moment he knew he had a chance though it might be slim, he would embrace it and devote all his energy to clear this up.

Sanem walked a bit before she caught a taxi, thinking and hoping he was right and he too had been used. She would guard her heart and soul reverently but allow her mind to listen.

Can resisted the urged to call Ceyda and unleash all the anger he had inside. That’s just what she wanted him to do, so instead he would wait for her to come to him. He realized she had not accomplished this on her own and was determined to find who helped her.

Emre came home late from a meeting and could see how visibly upset Can was. Offering to listen so that he might be able to help, Can proceeded to explain the details. Just talking about it was more than he could bear. He was overcome with grief and begged Emre to help him. There had to be a way to reveal this lie Ceyda fabricated. Emre consoling his Abi and also in total shock of the lengths that Ceyda had gone to for the admiration of his brother.

“Don’t worry, we will get to the bottom of all of this,” he assured Can. “Sanem loves you, and you will make her understand.” 

Can decided to turn in and try to get some rest. The job of revealing the lie that had been so skillfully orchestrated was foremost in his mind as he tried to sleep. Deep in his inner soul he felt an uneasiness that tickled away at him.

Emre was deep in thought while making his morning coffee as Huma entered the kitchen. “Gunaydin my dear,” she gushed. “Where’s your brother? Is he up yet?” She was eager to witness the effects of the latest event. Emre explained to her that Can had a very rough night and probably wasn’t up yet. Oh dear, is there a problem a work she scoffed, he didn’t show up for work yesterday and was absent here last evening when I came in. Your brother must learn how to conduct business with his head and not his heart, that’s one of biggest faults.

In trying to defend his brother he assured Huma that the business dealings where the least of his concern. Staying in character of the concerned mother she mournfully asked if there was trouble with Sanem. Well in a matter of speaking there is, he replied, but we will figure it out. Huma was desperate to hear what had transpired between them when the pictures came into play.

“What seems to be the problem this time?” Huma inquired, “They do have their share of misunderstandings.” Emre opted not to divulge any more information, he would leave it to Can to open up to her about it. He explained that it was a sensitive matter and he was helping Can get to the bottom of it. Huma starting to get annoyed with Emre, blurted out, “Why do you always treat me as the enemy? He is my eldest son and I have genuine concern for him.” Seeing she was feeling ignored in the matter he informed her that the latest problem was going to be handled promptly and Can was confident that he and Sanem would remain together.

Completely enraged, she spewed out, “HOW DOES HE THINK HE CAN FIX SOMETHING THAT’S IN BLACK AND WHITE”. She grabbed his purse and stormed out. Can walked down the hall as she was leaving wondering what had sparked that reaction.

“What’s wrong with her this morning?” he questioned Emre. “You know anne,” he joked, ” She’s on her quest to control everything. She’s wondering how you are going to fix things with Sanem when it’s there in black and white, or something to that effect.”

Can sipped his tea listening but not focusing on their conversation. Still thinking about the day before and the task he had ahead.

They sat together thinking of a way to undo the despicable game that Ceyda had played on Can. There was a lot of questions running through his mind, like ‘who did she get to take the pictures and how did they get access to the house.’

“You know Huma was right it was going to be hard to fix something that was all there in black and white,” he thought.

“Emre, did you tell Huma about the pictures?” he sputtered. Looking at each other, Emre answered a resounding, “No!” Both were stunned at the possibility of their thoughts.

Moments passed with neither saying what was reeling through their minds. Emre was the first to speak with a realization that she couldn’t possibly be capable of that, pointing out that she was still their mother and had only his best interest at heart. Can spiraling down into a suffocating belief that she was the only one that could have helped. It all made sense now, how she and Ceyda had become close friends and all the constant joining of them at any opportunity. That was the reason she had been so supportive of Ceyda coming to their house for the meeting that night.

Saying all these thoughts out loud to Emre made it that more real and acceptable. Emre of course still was not convinced she would do anything of the kind. They had to have proof beyond a reasonable doubt, Emre would have to have hard factual proof. Can knowing the pictures would have a date and time of development on each photo he took the photos from the envelope to inspect them. With this being the first time for Emre to see the photos he was devastated. The truth had to surface, bringing with it the pain of losing all of what he had known to be his family. Facing the ugly intentions of his mother would cause a collapse that he wasn’t sure he was ready for.

Emre insisted to be one to follow up on the pictures. He went to the photo shops that were closest to the agency first inquiring about their security video and if they would provide him with footage of a certain day and time. They were all willing to cooperate with him but the first shop did not show any developing at the time, so on to the next. The second place was further away from the agency but a little closer to their home. Emre explained the situation to the manager, with a bit of persuading he was allowed to view the video. Having to go back four days took a little time and he was beginning to get anxious and doubt his reasons for doing this. Just two more minutes of footage and he could go on to the next place, he thought. He saw it but refused to let it register to his mind, then he blurted out for him to stop the footage and go back, and there it was again, his mom sitting at the machine developing the photos, the very thing that would undoubtedly crush her own son and deliver the finalizing of their family. Reeling with hurt and anger he watched it over again and again to familiarize himself with the feeling that he would have to live with the rest of his life. He asked the manager to record a copy for him and would be back to pick it up in an hour. Can rang his phone but he was unable to talk and let it go to voicemail. How was he going to tell Can that his mother had so deliberately set out to destroy him and cause him pain? With the tape in hand he made his way back home to show Can what he had found. Can met him at the door, asking nervously he had found anything. Looking in his hand he saw the CD and knew immediately what was on it.

It was like his heart had slammed against a wall and exploded. A rush of grieve and sadness covered him letting what he knew was true avoid him.

Emre was experiencing the same sense of betrayal as Can but the hurt that Can must be feeling was unimaginable. Can finally grabbed the tape with fury and inserted it into his laptop, at this moment his life was on this tape. Very much wanting to prove his innocence even if it meant losing the mother he so wanted, but had never had. Watching the tape somberly he wondered how this person came to have such a hatred for him and for Sanem. The look on her face as she left the photo shop told the whole story, the look of pleasure for what she had done. 
Emre, asking him what he planned to do now, had jarred him. “Brother, I know your first instinct is to confront her with the wrath of God but I think we need to step back a minute and gather our thoughts.” Emre suggested he call Ceyda and ask to meet. Of course, she would agree thinking their plan had succeeded. 

Can setup a meeting with Ceyda for that evening at his home. Ceyda was beyond happy and ready to move on to the next step of their relationship. The next thing was to reach out to Sanem. He texted her, “I’m going to take care of everything, please trust me. I love you.”

The plan was to reveal the fact that Huma had been involved but not inventor of the scheme. Ceyda in fact had been named as the person that enlisted Huma’s help. Can would lead Ceyda to believe that his mother told the story of being forced to participate, with the deepest regret. 

Emre convinced his mother to have dinner with him that evening so Can could have the time with Ceyda. Huma resisted as much as possible, she was desperate to observe Can and judge the effects of their plan, but Emre insisted so as not to draw unwanted attention she agreed.

Can was never one to play games or try to deceive anyone but this lie was threatening his whole life and wouldn’t stand for it. Waiting for her to arrive, he rehearsed the confrontation over again in his mind. 
The doorbell rang, as he made his way to the door, he prayed he was able to pull it off.

Ceyda entered with a confidence that immediately angered Can.

“I am so glad you called,” she marveled, “I have been aching to see you.”

Eager to set the record straight, he quickly responded by conveying the feeling was not a mutual one. Voicing what Huma had told him about that night, and the fact that Ceyda had been the instigated of the vicious lie.

Delivering the message as clear and direct as it was possible, Can stated he was never interested in her and never would be. The fact that she would conduct a business that way should indeed be something her board of directors might be interested in. He was sure he could count on his mother to implement all the dirty little details to her father. Shocked, she denied being the one to orchestrate the plan, but was instead the victim along with Can.

With the trap laid and the threats stated, he demanded to know the rest of the details. She began her interpretation of all that happened. Huma had confronted her and presented her with a suggestion that would be of great benefit to them both. She would rid them of that dreadful Sanem and Ceyda would step in to pick up the pieces.

Can could hear what she was saying but to comprehend the maliciousness of Huma towards Sanem was, to say the least, heartbreaking. How had his mother become so hard and unfeeling? He had always felt that definition of her. Why else would you walk away and leave your firstborn son and never look back. This information was making it easier to cope with and the decision that he would have to make later. She offered the name of the photographer and the divulged the type of sedative that had been used. 
Ceyda would reveal how and why this outlandish plot came to be. She had no choice but to confess it all to Sanem, and Can would gladly deal with his mother.

Not wasting any time, he ordered Ceyda to stay while he called Sanem. Hoping she would hear him out and give him a chance, realizing that he had not awarded her that luxury, all he could do was hope for the best. She answered his call with doubt and listened to his request for her to come to his house and everything would be explained. She so wanted to believe in him but this would be his only chance as much as it would hurt her. 
Ceyda was nervous, not just for affirming her guilt in the matter but also in positioning herself on the receiving end of Huma’s wrath.

Sanem arrived and was alarmed to see Ceyda there and her defenses engaged. “What is this Can?” she blurted out, “Am I going to see a re-enactment of the photos?”

Furious, she spun around to leave. He caught her quickly, pleadingly he begged her to believe in him and listen. 
Can turned to Ceyda and urged her to tell what had transpired. As she gave all the details, the shame and guilt rolled over her. She apologized and she would understand if she never forgave her. Can played the CD of Huma devoloping the photos. He witnessed the look on her face of horror and then sadness that she could be so hated.

“What did I do to her for her to conjure such a gross display repulsiveness?” she whispered. Can held her, she melted into his body sobbing, “I’m sorry for you Can,” she cried, “what you must feel. I can handle all of this if I know you believe me and know I wouldn’t do any of this.”

The door swung open and Huma strutted in with her usual style. Stopping short, she stared at Ceyda then at Sanem, with a toss of her head she shot a look at Can.

“This is highly unacceptable,” she expressed, “What an embarrassment for Ceyda.” Can moved Sanem to the side and bore his eyes full of fire and disgust straight into her heart. Her arrogance faded and with an uneasiness churning inside her Can defiantly walked towards her. “How dare you come into my home and disrespect the woman I love? The hurt you have caused me is a hurt I have lived with for 20 years and have become accustomed to. I will not stand by and let you ruin the only thing good that has happened to me since you threw me aside as an unwanted child. You have one hour to collect your necessary things and find a place to stay far away from here. Emre make sure she is gone in an hour, and you are never to return here or try and contact me! Do I make myself clear? Oh, and please don’t make the mistake of trying to harm Sanem in any way or you will be sorry.”

He glared at Ceyda and shouted, “Get yourself another ad agency, and do it immediately!” She frantically grabbed her jacket and bag, ducked her head, and rushed out the door. 

Sanem stood shaking with anger and admiration of what had come to be right in front of her eyes. The fierceness with which Can dealt with Huma caused her pain but also the feeling of such a deep love it was overwhelming.

He reached for Sanem with a tenderness that unsurpassed the wrath that had just preceded him. He looked to her and said, “I will always protect you as long as we live. You are my life, and nothing will ever come between us.”