Love, Protect, and Trust… The Divit Way

by grannydew, posted in The Friends Series

Chapter 1

Can and Sanem have been living the life of love for the past 8 months. Free of Taner and his unwanted attention. She felt bad for leading him on in the first place, but sometimes you do what you have to do, right. All is fair in love and war….He seemed like the perfect candidate to test Cans feelings with, someone from her past. She had endured an array of beauties trying to steal her man away, and it tested her way beyond what she thought she could handle. But she stood her ground, waving her banner of love for him, if she hadn’t got caught up in Emre’s web of lies, they would have been living their perfect love story long ago. But it is what it is, and she had definitely learned from her mistakes. 

Can and Sanem were basking in the joy of their found again love and he was determined to keep it that way. The near loss of her had weakened him, it made him see what could happen when you least expect it. He intended to protect what was his…never underestimate the power of Can Divits love. It had taken him all of his adult life to find who god had made for him, that perfect person. Unique, stubborn, beautiful, and best part, she loved him for him.

Can was adamant about her working along side him at the agency, even after they married. He needed her with him at all times, it helped him with his concentration and besides, she had the best head for advertising he had ever seen. It just flowed from her like water from a faucet, and it amazed everyone. Even Deren had began to except her and her ideas, and that was hard to believe. The agency was getting a lot of interest because of the Compass Sports campaign, and with Compass Sports new facility about to open in Kayseri, it could be possible to expand their expertise all over the country. So all and all, life was great for the soon to be Divit family. He wanted the wedding over and their life to begin, he was more than anxious to start growing those babies they had been talking about.

A new cosmetic company was entering the Turkey market and they were looking for a young and vibrant ad agency to put them on the map. With all the competition in that field, it would take a bright, and innovative company to make them shine. With Fikri Harika On top now, they seemed to be the logical candidate. The only draw back was Ceyda, she had been the one to send the new company their way. She was a old friend of the owner of the company, and saw it as another opportunity to stay close to Can. If there was one thing she had, that was persistence. Can was excited about the new company, but knew it would be up to Sanem to design this ad, and he already knew it would be great. 

The morning started out on a good note, Sanem brought him her delicious tea, and sat down with him to share their tea together. They enjoyed these times, even if it was just 10 minutes alone, it made them happy. The alone time was quickly interrupted with a tap on the door and Ceyda letting herself in. They were both startled, and Can immediately stood up, taking offense to her unannounced visit. ” Can, my love, how are you.” Sanem dear, would please excuse us, we have some business to discuss.” She spouted. Leaning in to give Can a kiss on the cheek, and shooting Sanem a look of defiance, she squeezed in between Can and Sanem on the sofa. Can quickly walked over to his desk, ” Ceyda, please have a seat here at the desk, it might be more comfortable, and Sanem can hear anything we have to discuss.” So what is it you need to talk about.” He quizzed. She huffed, but made her way to the desk, flipping hair as a sign of annoyance. 

Sanem loved Can more in times like this, if that was possible. He had become quite skilled in demeaning someone with no more than a few words, especially when it came to Ceyda vs Sanem. Sanem relaxed on the sofa, ready to hear what had brought the piranha here today. Can leaned back in his chair, swiveling side to side, glaring intently. ” Can, as you know I have sent Redmond Cosmetics your way, they are a huge company, and they need to be handled with a great deal of respect. They owner is a close friend of my fathers and I have known him all my life, so it’s quite possible I will be involved with this campaign as well.” So, we need to make sure your top creative person develops an exquisite presentation.” Sanem listened with interest, “What was she up to now,” her demand on Can was really beginning to wear thin. Can smirked, and moved up to the desk and looked directly in her eyes, ” Ceyda, please do not presume that you can tell me who to use for a campaign. You are a client and a very important one at that, but I run this company and will do so my way.” She shifted in her chair, and forced a fake laugh, ” Oh Can, my dear that was not my intent in the least.” It was merely a suggestion, of course. ” Sanem snickered at her reply, and Ceyda gave a sharp look of disgust her way.  Can stood, showing his annoyance with her, ” Is there anything else Ceyda, if not, Sanem and I both have a lot of work to do.”

” Ah yes,” she spouted, ” You have my campaign to work on, I surely hope you don’t over look mine for Redmond.”  glaring back at Sanem. Sanem nodded, ” Certainly not, I’m sure we can handle both. If you had doubted it you wouldn’t have recommended us, right.” Sanem said sharply. Can smiled, ” Ceyda, let me show you out,” he said, ” Oh, and next time, please call ahead and make an appointment, it will help cut down on any kind of embarrassment that might occur.” 

Sanem couldn’t hold her laugh, and that brought another look of disgust from Ceyda. 

” That’s my man,” she thought, ” always thinking ahead….

Chapter 2

It had been a tough day, so Can suggested a nice quite dinner at his house before he took her home. She of course accepted and called her mother to let her know. She ate at Cans more than she ate at home now, so her mom was used to the last-minute phone call.  They made the drive to his house, in record time, longing to be alone. They had to steal minutes here and there just for any type of intimacy. She thought that Can actually had the hours marked off on the calendar until their wedding night. If he had it his way, they wouldn’t see the light of day for at least a week. But she wouldn’t complain, she had waited for this forever, for her Albatross to find her and carry her away on his wings of love. 

His cooking was phenomenal, it was a blessing, if not they would surely starve in their married life, or they would have to hire a cook. They lounged on the patio, breathing in the night air, it had just enough of a nip to need a fire in the fireplace. This was what he dreamed of each night, after he would take her home. He would come back, alone and envision them living here. How wonderful their lives would be, he was sure of it. The evening had passed way to soon and it was already time to take her home. They held each other for the last time before she got out and headed into her house. Just a kiss on the cheek, in case one of the neighbors we’re watching, and then she was gone. Tomorrow couldn’t come fast enough…

He was up and around extra early the next morning. To the gym for a good workout, a shower and on to the office. He still arrived before most anyone else. His favorite time, early in the morning, he could get so much done. He was deep into his work, when Sanem tapped on his door. ” Good Morning, my love,” I brought us tea.” She chirped. We welcomed her with opened arms, taking the tea from her and sitting it on the desk, he wrapped her in his arms and breathed in her smell, the aroma revitalizes him, it always stirred his blood. They took their teas and sat on the sofa. She leaned her head on his shoulder, listened to his heartbeat and the blood rush through his body. Such a vital man, how had she been so lucky as to snag this eligible bachelor. 

Sanem’s phone rang, it was her mother, she knew she had to answer, ” Hello mom, why are you calling,” she asked. Mevkibe was a bundle of nerves, trying plan a perfect wedding. It was bound to be the social event of the year for their neighborhood. She was a little frantic, ” Sanem, I must have the final guest list number, we have to secure the wedding hall, the place must be big enough.” She piped. Sanem shook her head, rolling her eyes,” Ok mom, we will get that today, I’ll make sure, Yes,mom, Yes mom, ok, I’ll call you.” She quickly hung up. Can was amused at the desperate tone to Mevkibe’s voice over the phone. ” Sanem, I hope those two aren’t going overboard with the planning, did we not agree simple and small.” He asked. She tilted her head and started at him, ” You do remember my mother and Milihat don’t you, and you ask such questions.” She laughed. He smiled, know full well what he was in for. But he could endure anything, if it meant this beautiful woman, he was looking at would be his wife. ” Ok, we can work on that list at lunch, ok.” He insisted. 

He had been digging up all the information he could on Redmond cosmetics, just to be ahead of the game. He pulled up all the advertisements that had already been launched for them. The couple viewed them all, knowing they had to top all of them. Sanem had a few ideas but was holding on to them until she had a chance to work them up on her computer. Compass Sports was still in the process of building their store in Kayseri, they had some changes at the last minute that threw the project behind. Taner had some big ideas, setting the whole concept back in the schedule. They had added a large climbing area inside the complex, sort of like a teaching area. They could also test products and develop new ones. It would make them a step ahead of everyone else when it came to mountain climbing. 

This sport had become quite popular, with several climbing schools and climbing clubs popping up. So the advertising part of the project had changed a few times. Can always insisted on being the one to talk to Taner when it came to revising the campaign, which was fine with her, his attitude with her had bother her some. The first time they talked after he relocated to Kayseri was awkward to say the least. He acted like she had called a wedding between the two of them or something. Very dramatic and uncalled for, so Can took over the conversation part of things, just relaying the designs that the team was forming for the ad. He loved the campaign so far, so no complaints and the job was full speed ahead. At the end of every call he always told Can, ” Please tell Sanem I said hello, would you.”  Can always gritted his teeth and smiled, agreeing to relay the message. 

There was a note that arrived for Sanem, about 2 months after Taner had left for Kayseri. It was just about the time she stopped talking to him on the phone about the campaign. She never told Can about it, she thought it to be harmless, and he was a half a country away. It read, ” This could have been so perfect, you and I.” But once again you broke my heart.”  With no name, but it was obvious the writer. She didn’t get it, never understood what he meant, when did I break his heart? She thought. There was more in his mind then there was in hers, and that concerned her.  She would be glad when this ad campaign was over, and they wouldn’t have to deal with Taner. There was always a problem, if it wasn’t Polen trying to reclaim Can as her own, it was Ceyda, prancing around like the next Mrs. Divit.  It was so tiring, she wondered if it would ever stop, or is this what she had to put up with the rest of her life. Her life had always been calm and non-eventful, but Can’s, that was a different story, he stirred attention wherever he went. 

This was a new experience for her, she had never unwanted attention thrown at her. It was almost in a stalker fashion, and she didn’t like it. 

But she knew Can would protect her…..because that’s what he did…

Chapter 3

They had their lunch in his office, snuggled up on the sofa. Their favorite place, they talked about the wedding, the guest list and all the do’s and don’ts they each had. Their list was more alike than they thought, It was a simple wedding they both wanted. The total of the guest list surprised them both, with just their very close friends and the family members, the number was large. Sanem asked him about his father and his mother, would he like to invite them. Of course he would love for his father to be there by there was circumstances beyond his control that would prevent his attendance. The news of his dads health condition was not a known factor and was didn’t feel he was at liberty to tell anyone about it. In fact he wasn’t even supposed to know about it. He could only tell her that he would be unavailable to come. His mother, that was a whole different story. He had no desire to even let his mother know he was getting married. 

Huma was not a part of his life and hadn’t been for over 20 years, so the connection with her was gone. It was his brother and a few close friends that would attend for him. Sanem had been the reason for him to even forgive his brother for all of his manipulating ways, and all the heartache he had caused them. But their relationship was on the mend and he hoped for better days ahead. Sanem reluctantly accepted his decision to not tell his mother, as not to cause a fight, but she still felt sorry for him and wished she could do something. With the list made they took the rest of their lunch to spend together, in each other’s arms. His desire was strong and she felt the tingle of his touch. What a happy and wonderful time in their life, it was almost too good to be true…

The feelings and emotions could easily have gone to that place of no return in an instant, and that was where it was headed when Deren knocked on the door. Waiting for that verbal ok to enter had taken longer than usual, ” Yes, who is it, ” Can asked. ” It’s me Can, sorry to bother you on your lunch, but something has come up.” Deren stated. A second later, ” Ok Deren, come in.” He said. The uneasiness was evident, and Sanem didn’t make eye contact with her. She was always so embarrassed when these situations arose. She glanced at Can, scolding him with her eyes, and he started back at her with a look of, ” What?… we didn’t get caught did we,” which made her even more embarrassed.  He loved the excitement of it, and it showed. She was still rearranging her clothes as she excused herself from his office, and his eyes followed her with a slight grin on his face and a rush of desire still raging through his body. 

They had seemed to hit a snag on the Compass Sports account, and it would need his attention. They were deep in conversation when Sanem came back into the room. Taner hadn’t liked one part of the presentation and was questioning if Sanem was still the head creative person for the campaign. Deren had assured him that all the aspects of the campaign still went to Sanem for approval, but he wasn’t convinced. He had insisted on speaking with Sanem on the phone. Sanem was combing over the part that was troubling him, trying to figure it out. They had already agreed on this feature of the ad, so what was the problem. Can agreed to let Sanem call him and get to the bottom of it so they could move forward. She sat at Cans desk and rang his phone, ” Taner, yes hello, ” What seems to be the problem, it’s the same format that was agreed upon last week. ” She stated. He sighed, ” Sanem, hello, it’s so good to hear your voice, I’ve really missed you.”  He said in barely a whisper.  Sanem shuttered at the sound of his voice, ” Taner, what’s wrong with the campaign, you said you’re not happy with the forest scene, that would be the fourth frame in the slideshow, what’s wrong with it.” At this point she was suspecting he had faked the whole thing just to get to talk to her.  ” I’m sorry Sanem, but I really needed to hear your voice. It’s so beautiful here, I really wished you had came.” Don’t be mad” he begged. 

A sick feeling sank into her stomach, he was really starting to upset her. She covered her end of the conversation, ” Ok, I see, good.” Then it was just an oversight then and all is good.” She stated, smiling a fake smile and glancing at Can. He knew she was Can and she didn’t want Can to know the reason for his call, ” Ok Sanem, I realize you’re with Can and can’t talk,” he said, “but promise me you will call be back when you are alone.”  He said softly. The sick feeling got worse, ” No, that won’t be necessary, we have all the information we need,” She spouted. ” I’m sure there won’t be another problem.” Thank you Taner.”  And she quickly hung up. She tried to hide her feelings, reassuring Deren that it had been a miscommunication and that the format was fine. If Can had even a slight suspicion of what Taner was up to, they would lose their biggest account and the blame would be hers. She could only shudder at the thought of what Can would do to Taner. 

Can seems satisfied with the explanation, and ready to move ahead. They had a month before the opening of Compass Sports of Turkey. They didn’t need any more surprises, or setbacks. And with Redmond knocking on their door, this would be a busy month. The wedding was 6 weeks away and that was foremost in their minds. He didn’t know how they would fit in a honeymoon, but there was no way it wasn’t going to happen. He wanted to take her someplace special, but for him, just being with her as his wife, would be special enough for him.

She returned to her desk with a dark fog hanging over her. Taner was really starting to freak her out, she knew she would have to tell Can if there was another incident, but for now, she would keep it to herself……

Chapter 4

With the guest list complete, the place to accommodate the guest would be easier to find. Mevkibe and Melihat already had a couple of places in mind, and then the setting could be taken care of. The weather would still be warm so if they chose the outdoor location it would be fine. The pair were busy as bees and loving every minute of it. All they needed was to grab Sanem for a day and shop for the dress. Leyla was supposed to manage that for them, but so far they had been so busy they hadn’t been able to take a day off. Sanem was covered up with work, and with the new potential clients, their time would even be tighter.  The Compass Sports campaign was almost done, and that would leave her some time. 

Leila was being pressured from her mother to secure a day to take care of things, so she decided to go straight to the boss himself. She tapped on his door, he looked up and she smiled. He motioned for her to come in, and stood as she entered the office. ” Leila, come in, is everything ok,” He questioned. She rarely came to his office, she and Emre took care of the financial part of the company so is always went to him with any problems. She waved her hand, ” No, there’s nothing wrong, this is about your wedding,” she stated, ” Mom is really needing a day with Sanem to shop for a dress, and me too, we need to all go and shop, but Sanem has been so busy, she keeps putting us off. ” I just thought maybe you could convince her to take a day off, so we could get it done. ” she smiled a big smile. Can told her, ” She’s never that busy, of course she can take a day off. ” Do you want to take off tomorrow, because I’ll make sure she has a clear schedule.”  He stated. ” No, let’s make it on the next day, on Friday, that way mom and Melihat can prepare to go. And if it’s ok, I would like to take off also, so we could just make a day of it.” She laughed. He agreed, feeling a bit excited about all the plans coming together. He knew how important all these things were to her mother and he was glad they were the ones doing it. 

Leila thanked him and turned to leave, he stopped before she reached the door. ” Leila, I don’t think we have had much of a chance to talk lately,” do you mind staying for a minute.” He asked. Leila agreed, with a smile, but a bit nervous. He motioned for her to sit on the sofa, as he walked around his desk. She sat, glancing around his office with apprehension. He smiled, ” Leila, I know we have never been anything more than boss and employee, but I would like to see that change, ” he said, ” Your sister means everything to me, and I would like for us to be more comfortable with each other, after all I am going to be your brother-in-law.” He smiled. In all the years she had worked for the company, and seeing Canbey come and go on his worldly travels, only stopping by for a short visit occasionally, did she ever dream he would be her family one day. This magnificent man, a famous man, a gorgeous man would be her brother. Her sister had tamed the lion and she couldn’t be more proud. ” Of course Canbey, I would love that too,” she replied happily, ” I am very happy for you both, I know you make my sister very happy and that’s all that matters.”  He laughed, ” Ok, then let’s start with you just calling me Can, at least when we’re not a work or we are alone, ok ” He suggested. She smiled and agreed, but that would take a bit of practice, she had called him Canbey for so long, and now Emrebey would be her family too, that was going to be quite a change. They stood and he hugged her, wanting to be a part of their family was all he wanted. It just felt so right, they made him feel loved and worthy, just like he was one of them. 

Sanem was finishing the last presentation of the Compass Sports ad, glad to be done and maybe be rid of Taner. She was excited to be able to focus more time on their wedding…, that word sent a thousand chills running down her spine. She had saved herself for that person that complete her and made her whole, and at the right time, their union would blend them together soul and body. It would be a wonderful thing. She knew he was anxious to start a family, but she hoped for some time with just him, the two of them alone together. They had so little of that in their courtship, she craved it, just to get to live with him and never have to leave, that would be heaven on earth. But a family was very important to them both, so what will be, will be. She was definitely not going to dread the trying for that family!  

It was getting close to the end of the day and she hadn’t had time to visit Can all afternoon. She brewed them some tea, and started to his office. Leila was coming out, with a smile on her face, ” Abla, how are you. Is there a problem.” Sanem asked, a little surprised to see in Can’s office. ” No, just a little business that’s all.” Nothing to worry about.” She assured her. She gave her a quick hug and ducked into her office. Sanem tapped on his door as she entered with the tray of tea. ” What was Leila doing her, she usually reports to Emrebey. ” I hope there’s nothing wrong.” She spouted. Can ushered her in and toward the sofa, then reached back shutting the door, as he always did when she came with their tea. Hoping for that few minutes alone with her that always re-energized him, body and mind. ” No,” nothing wrong, just making a date for Friday.” Sanem turned her head and looked at him with head cocked sideways, ” Oh really, and where do you think you and my sister are going. ” She quizzed. 

He laughed, ” Not me silly, ” You and your sister.” You’re both taking the day off and going shopping, with your mom and Melihat. And I won’t hear anything about it, but a yes. 

” And why”. She asked. 

He smiled and said. ” To find that perfect dress, for my perfect woman, for our perfect day”……

Chapter 5

He as the most perfect man for this most perfect woman and she loved him more than life itself. She threw her arms around his neck and planted a big kiss right on the lips. They parted and she was thanking him for the time off, as she looked at him, she saw the look of longing in his eyes, the stare that went down deep into her heart. It stopped her in her tracks, his desire was clear, and it took her breath away. He leaned in close with his lips sliding along her jaw line, he whispered, ” Sanem, you have no idea what you do to me, I don’t know if I can wait for our wedding to make you mine. He stopped at her ears and softly bit on her ear lobe, tracing down the length of her neck with his tongue. He skin was warm and tasted salty, he gently sucked on the small area at the base of her neck. She moaned, with every inch of her body shivering and on fire at the same time. He wrapped his arms around her tiny waist and slid her down the sofa. He leaned over her to intensify his kiss, he ran his tongue along the outline of her lips, as she gasped for air, he covered her lips with his. Within a mere 10 seconds, he had taken her from a happy girl, thanking him for the day off, to a heated woman, full of want, desire and breathless from his kisses. 

 But of course, someone always has a problem and along came that tap on the door. Can continued the quest for his satisfaction, ignoring the knock on the door. Sanem tried to calm herself, ” Can, the door.” She whispered. He was unfazed by her statement, ” CAN, stop,” she shouted. He jerked around and came to his senses, and yelled, ” Yes, what it is.” CeyCey spoke in a nervous tone, ” Canbey, I have the file you requested from Ms. Deren, uh, uh, I’m, uh, going to, uh, leave it just outside the door.” Thank you Canbye, it’s right here by the door, on the flo….” ” CeyCey, ok just leave it, it’s fine.” He interrupted. Sanem laid there silent, almost holding her breath, until he walked away. They both busted out in laughter, ” Can, we have to quite doing this here,” We’re going to get caught.” Can smiled, his eyes soft and dreamy looking, ” Oh, I don’t think so, I might just have to put a lock on the door.”  He said, biting his bottom lip as his eyes traveled down her body. She slapped him playfully on the arm and sat up on the sofa, straightening her hair and wiping the tiny beads of sweat that had popped out on her top lip. 

It was so unbecoming for a woman to sweat, but this man could make the snow melt from the highest peaks in the world. He leaned back on the sofa to catch his breath, he really enjoyed these little teatime breaks, they seemed to be getting very interesting. He smiled with the thoughts replaying in his mind. Sanem could see his amusement with the situation, ” Can are you going to get the file,” she asked. ” No, not right now, I’ll give everybody time to get back to their work,” He smirked. She shook her head in disbelief, he had no shame, she thought. They finished their tea, and she scooted over to give him a hug, before leaving. He wrapped her up again asking, ” Whoa, where do you think you’re going, “it’s not time to leave yet.” He said. ” Can I need to finish up before time to go. ” she explained. She smiled, ” Why don’t you come home with me for dinner tonight, mom would be so happy.” Ok, it’s settled, be ready in 15 minutes, ok?”  He couldn’t refuse her anything, and besides he loved her mom’s cooking. ” Ok, it’s a date.” He spouted, as she walked out the door, sliding the file in his door with her foot. 

She phoned her mother to let her know that Can was coming for dinner, Mevkibe was elated, she loved to feed him. He loved everything she cooked and praised her highly for it. There wasn’t a better feeling in the world for her. Can held a special place in her heart, she felt this need to accept him as he was and protect him from his loneliness. How he had grown into the man he was without the love a mother, the guidance of the heart that gave him life was hard to understand. But he was a warm and sincere man, full of compassion and love, of which he had found on his own. Her daughter had captured a heart of gold and and Mevkibe couldn’t have been happier. ” Yes. Sanem, bring Can home with you, we have plenty.” He is always welcome here, and we can discuss the wedding while he’s here.” She exclaimed with excitement. ” Oh, by the way, a beautiful bouquet of flowers came for you a bit ago, I presume from Can?” Her mother said. “I wonder why he sent them here,” she asked. ” But they are beautiful, pink and yellow roses.” A strange combination, but still beautiful.” She stated. 

Sanem swallowed hard, and she was glad the Can wasn’t beside her right now, ” Did you say pink and yellow roses?” She asked. ” Was there a card?” Mevkibe was searching through the flower bouquet for a card, ” Yes, here’s one…. oh, Sanem, I don’t think these are from Can.”  ” Mom what does the card say,” she quizzed nervously. Mevkibe recited the card to her over the phone, ” I’m so lonely without you here, I miss you”……” Sanem there’s no name, who are they from.” She asked with concern. Sanem knew exactly who had sent them, ” Mom just throw them away, do it now before we get there.” They are from Taner, and it will upset Can if he sees them.” Her mother reacted quickly, disposing of the flowers, burying them deep into the trash basket, and feeling a slight twinge of fear for some reason. Why was he sending her daughter flowers, and with that kind of statement attached. ” I will tell you later, just don’t ask any questions in front of Can, ok.” She begged. Mevkibe agreed, and that protecting instinct swept over her, she felt her daughter was in harms way, but why. 

Being at Sanems home was always heart lifting for him. Their love as a family touched him, filling the empty spot in his soul that had been with him since he was 10 years old. He finally had a place that made him feel safe. In all of his travels, around the world, he never considered ” safe” as a need of his but being a part of them had made his heart see what the life of loneliness could do to a person. 

” Loneliness had no place now… she had turned his heart of sadness into a heart of desire and hope.” He felt his life was just beginning…

Chapter 6

As always, the food was the best he had ever had and the company meant more to him than ever. They had so made him feel like he belonged to them. They were his family, heart and soul felt family. They discussed the wedding and he heard all the traditional happenings that would be necessary before the ceremony. It was all so worth it, for him to be able to live with this woman that awoke his heart from the nightmare of indifference. She made him whole and happy, what more could anyone want. The venue was still up in the air, they would make the decision. The beautiful old building that once been the library that Mevkibe had opened, or the gardens that the neighborhood people had designed when a fire took out some of their old and historic building. They remarked that area with a work of love, to honor their ancestors and the heritage of the district. It was a sight to behold, the flowers, the sculptures, the meaning that they each held. He knew his choice but as always he would let Sanem say what was in her heart. ” Momma, if it is at all possible, and the timing is right, I would love to use the gardens.” She replied. Her vision of it was already making her emotional, and If they could have it in the late evening, with lights strung around to illuminate the many flowers and bushes, that would make it even more magical. Can smiled, his thoughts exactly, they did have one mind and it flowed together so well. Her mother clapped her hands together in excitement, it would be perfect, her daughter had such a connection to flowers and earth, along with the stars, what could be more suitable than the gardens. The small details could come later, but for now the most important things were set. Sanem and Can were one step closer to making their dreams come true, making their lives as one. 

It was late and time for Can to leave his love, the hardest part of the day. Going home alone meant his dreams would be filled with her and their life. 5 weeks and 2 days, and a lot of cold showers, thats what he saw in the future. They said their good nights, he thanked his soon to be mother-in-law for the delicious meal, kissing her cheeks. It always made Sanem warm and happy to see the exchange of affection between Can and her parents. Even her dad was engrossed with him, he loved to hear the fantastic stories Can had to tell when he was around. It seemed to let him live a life of fantasy, that had otherwise pasted him by. She walked him to his car, it was always awkward, and uneasy. The neighbors hung out their windows, gawking about, just to get a glimpse of a new line of gossip to occupy their time. It amused Can, and he was more than willing oblige their curiosity, but Sanem, that was a whole different story. She was very prim and proper when it came to that. She would have offered a good handshake and a slap on the back for a goodnight parting, if left up to her. But they manage a quick peck on the cheek, and a hug, and that was it. He was left to imagine the rest, and that he did. 

Her mother cornered her as soon as she reentered the house, ” Sanem, what is going on with Taner,” she quizzed. ” That message was strange, what did it mean” she asked. Sanem explained the note and the phone call, and now the flowers, filling her in on the uneasiness she was feeling. ” He has changed mom”, Sanem said, ” He seems dark and secretive, like he’s trying to manipulate me.” I’m not telling Can right now, it will cause us to lose the biggest account we have. I’m not wanting that, not because of me.” She stated. ” I really think he’s harmless, he just doesn’t like to lose, in anything. Mevkibe, of course, wanted Sanem to tell Can, but she the possibility of losing the campaign was too great. ” It will be fine mother, if it gets worse, I promise I’ll tell him.” Sanem assured her. ” I just want to think about the wedding that’s coming up, and nothing else. I finished the campaign for Compass Sports of Turkey so now it’s just about us.” She chimed. 

Can had texted her when he got home, to tell her goodnight. The returned a few texts and then said their goodbyes. She already was missing him, before she could even go to sleep. He stayed in her dreams while she slept, every night was a preview of what their lives would be together. Such a wonderful array of thoughts roamed her mind and stirred her heart as she waited for the morning to come.

The ping of her phone woke her, it was late, or early she wasn’t sure which. But it startled her, was it Can, she wondered. Looking at her phone, ” Oh my god, it’s 3:20, ” hopes there’s nothing wrong.” Expecting the text to be from Can, she quickly sat up to read it.  It read: ” Ah, Sanem, Ah, I miss you. Soon”… It’s from Taner, she shuddered at the thought. Why is he sending these texts. She threw her phone down, as if he could see her though it. ” Creepy, that’s all l’ve got to say.” She shook her head trying to remove the words from her mind. The night edged by, with her sleep at bay, is it time to tell someone about this, or wait until after the grand opening in Kayseri. Can will freak out and overreact as usual, but what if this is really something.

” No, this is just Taner, he wouldn’t do anything stupid.” She rationalizes it all her mind. Maybe he’s playing a game with her, you know, just trying to scare her. If I say anything to him, then he will know he scared me, and he would have won. Just ignore him, he will go away….

The morning came but her lack of sleep plagued her. Can called saying he was on his way to pick her up, be ready in 10 minutes, he would have hot bagels and tea. The day was beautiful and warm, they went to the pier, found a table and leisurely enjoyed their breakfast. The deadline had been met and all correspondence to Compass Sports had been sent. They had time to breathe now….

But Sanem’s head was full of worry now, why did things always have to happen to them.

Chapter 7

The day was easy, nothing pressing on them. Sanem tried to finish up some of the other accounts that had been pushed back because of Compass Sports. She knew she would be out the next day so the more done today the better. Can took her out for lunch to their favorite fish place, and then they took a nice walk together. It was so nice to be alone, so peaceful. By the time they made it back to the agency, Ceyda had called Deren 3 times. Can had turned his phone off, just to have uninterrupted time with Sanem. Deren met them as they came in the door, ” Can, Ceyda has called several times and needs an appointment, and she bringing Mr. Mekken from Redmond Cosmetics.” She stated. Can shook his head, ” We can’t even get a break for 5 minutes, when do they want to come.” He asked. 

Deren relayed the message, ” They want to come this afternoon, it you are available, and he wants Sanem in the meeting also.” He was very impressed with what she has done with the Compass Sports campaign.” Can looked at her with questions, ” What do you say, are you ready to start another large campaign, just a few weeks before the wedding.”  Can we handle it.” Sanem hated to get so involved again, but it would mean so much for the company. Sanem linked her arm through his and said, ” I think we can, we have a great team, and I’m sure Deren can handle everything if I need help,” she looked at Deren for support in the subject. Deren nodded in agreement and said, ” Absolutely, you can count on me for whatever you need.” They walked into Cans office, just as his phone rang, he answered, ” Hello Ceyda, what can I do for you.” Yes, Sanem and I were unavailable for a while today, but we are back in the office now.”  Ok, an hour will be fine, see you then.”  He hung up, shaking his head in disbelief, ” She always needs to know where I have been, it’s getting very annoying.” He spouted.  Sanem laughed, ” It’s hard answering to so many girlfriends, isn’t it.” Just don’t get confused.” He shot her a look of annoyance. She headed for her desk, to get ready for the meeting. 

Ceyda and Mr Mekken arrived right on time, Ceyda seemed even more sure of herself than usual, stuttering her stuff, she nodded an acknowledgment towards Sanem, and headed straight to Cans office. Sanem grabbed her notebook and started into his office, but by the time she got there Ceyda was already draped all over Can, lavishing him with kisses. Can pushed her back and moved around to the other side of his desk. She introduced Mr. Mekken to Can and Ms. Deren but skipped over Sanem. But Can quickly grabbed her and made the intro, ” Yes Mr.Mekken, this my fiancé, Sanem Aydin. “ She will be working on your campaign, along with Ms.Deren. Mekken was overjoyed to meet her, he was a fan of the campaign she set up for the Compass Sports. They got started on the meeting, they loved the ideas that Sanem had for the campaign right away. She was a natural at inventing, Can couldn’t have been more proud. Mr. Mekken was intrigued and was definitely ready for Fikri Harika to be the new ad agency for his cosmetics. 

The talk turned to Compass Sports of Turkey, and the grand opening. Ceyda leaned over to Can, ” We of course want you there to unveil the ad for the first time.” She said. ” It is your campaign after all.” She revealed, rubbing his arm. Can stiffened, ” Actually, it’s Sanem’s campaign, but neither of us will be able to attend. I’m sending Ms.Deren and Ahmet.” They both have been heavily involved in the ad process.” He stated firmly.  Ceyda’s face dropped, ” Can, that’s unacceptable, I expect you to be there. I have some special plans for the grand opening.” She spouted. ” Please don’t make me insist, we are your largest clients you know.” She demanded. Can smiled, ” I’m quite aware of you client status Ceyda, but it’s not a good time for us to out the office, with our wedding coming up soon, there are many things to take care of.” He said. With a sharp look towards Sanem she stated, ” Sanem can stay and take care of the wedding plans and you can go take care of business, that seems like a logical compromise to me.” Beside there is a surprise associated with the opening you might be interested in.” She gushed. ” We have organized a competition climb to coincide with the opening festivities, and you definitely need to be part of it.” I fact, I planned it with you in mind.” She reaches for his hand, but he pulled away. Sanem had witnessed more than she cared to and stood, looking at Ceyda she said, ” if this is all for the meeting, I will excuse myself, and get to work.” Her eyes locked with Cans, with no words needed. Saying her goodbyes to Mr. Mekken, she left the room. She walked straight to the restroom, letting out the anger that fired up inside her. That woman could cause her to lose control, and she didn’t like it. But she had to think of the agency, and what would happen if they lost that account. 

She hoped Can would take care of this situation, it had went on long enough. Can was fully aware of what that look meant as she went out the door. He asked Deren to escort Mr. Mekken out, while he had a word with Ceyda. She beamed at him, welcoming the time alone, for what she thought would be an acceptance to her invitation. He closed the door and turned to her, ” Ceyda I think we need to have another talk.” He stated firmly, ” I told you before that whatever you think might be between us, is certainly not going to happen.” My life and my heart is with Sanem, and there’s nothing in this world you could do to change that.” The fact that our agency represents your business she the only association that I want to have with you. I not sure how I can make myself any more clear than that.”  He spewed. ” And I wish for you not to put my soon -to -be wife in anymore embarrassing situations, as you did today.” Do I make myself clear.” He stated, with eyes glaring. She flinched at the harsh words, ” You are making a big mistake Can,” she pouted, ” That girl is not for you, when will you see that.” She spun around and marched out, leaving him stunned. 

His anger of her denial was going to cost them a client, but at this point he really didn’t care. Deren rushed back in his office, ” Can, what happened, Ms. Ceyda looked furious when she left.” She begged. ” We can’t lose them, you know that don’t you.” That means we would lose Redmond before we even get started with it.” You have to go to the grand opening and the climbing competition.” She stated.

He knew she was right, but how much was he willing to give up for business….

It certainly wasn’t going to be Sanem…

Chapter 8

The mood had definitely changed, the elation of a new client, had faded away with the problems of an old client. Can relayed the warning that he gave to Ceyda, to Sanem, which made her feel better. The threat of her trying to take Can wasn’t even the issue, it was the disrespect that Ceyda showed for Sanem that bothered them most. So blatant and cruel, making it hurt that much more. Can needed to address the issue of the grand opening with her and he knew it wasn’t going to be easy. ” Sanem, we need to talk about the grand opening for a minute.” Can started, ” I feel like I really need to go, at least to the competition, not that I want to but the ad is ours so it might look better if I went along.”  Deren and Ahmet can handle the opening celebrations and I can go just for the climb. What do you think?” He waited patiently for her to reply. She knew he was right, that’s what made it so bad. Ceyda had designed it that way, but she did trust Can so the decision seemed to be made. He would fly there just for the climb and then return. It had all been planned around a weekend so he would fly back on that Monday. It would still be 5 days before the wedding. So she agreed……

His only doubt was he would probably have to climb with Taner, that he wasn’t looking forward to. In fact, he didn’t even want to see him, but that was wishful thinking. He would let Sanem take care of the office, along with Emre while he made an appearance for the agency. Sometimes there were things you just had to do, and this was one of them. He would have to step up his training a bit for this climb, since he had out of it for a while. So hit the gym with his trainer would be next on the list. Sanem was apprehensive of course, but it was only 5 days total, so what could go wrong. Ceyda wouldn’t be in the competition, so they wouldn’t have much time together. And she knew Can missed the excitement of mountain climbing, so this would be a welcome excursion for him. She would make it like her wedding gift to him. 

They started right away on the Redmond campaign, to hopefully get it completed before Deren and Can left for Kayseri.  Knowing she would be off the next day they stayed late to get as much done as possible. Can said goodnight early to get started on his training, leaving Sanem to get home alone. As they were all leaving, a late night courier caught her at the door. She signed for the letter, it was addressed to her, so she sent the others on while she stayed to open it. It was a handwritten note, it read ” I’m missing you so, can’t wait to see your face.”  with no signature, but she didn’t need one to know who sent it. Taner, what are you up to, she thought. She tucked it away in her desk and left to take her bus home. Deep in thought as she rode home, ” Did he think I was coming for the opening, so he would be excited to see me, or was he just being weird.” Her head hurt from it all, but it didn’t feel like enough to burden Can with.

The next day was wedding dress day, let the fun begin. The four women, dressed for fun and shopping took off together. She had an appointment with the first shop at 10:00. There were lovely dresses there but none that made them cry, so on to the next shop. The same results there, but a definite possibility, so moving on. They stopped for a much deserved lunch, and rest. As they walked to the next shop, they passed an antique shop and, in the window, a beautiful wedding gown. It had antique lace and beads; it was fitted with a long chiffon train that detached at the waist. It was exquisite and she had to try it on. She was nervous as she slipped it on, the fit was close but it would need to be altered slightly. The gown was beautiful on her, they all gasped as she walked out of the dressing room. The train was long and dramatic, it flowed behind the dress that would fit her body like a glove after it was altered. It was so delicate and elegant, it matched her perfectly. She opted for no veil, just the dress would be enough to make her look wonderful. The owner of the shop could do the alterations, and she could pick it up in two weeks. They were overjoyed at her selection. Nothing could have been better. One more thing to mark off the list of things to do. This was perhaps, the biggest thing on the list and the most important to her.

The weekend was busy for them, they had a cake tasting, even though a few ladies in the neighborhood always made the wedding cakes for the children of the neighborhood as they grew up and got married, they took great pride in offering a selection. Can was in heaven, tasting each of the five choices, it was a hard choice, but it was finally made. Everything was coming alone nicely, with more things crossed off the list. Sunday was spent with them finally being alone. Something they had been looking forward to all week. She has taken one of Cans blankets and spread it on the grass and motioned for him to come join her. ” Can, come on, lay with me on the ground,” she called. He trotted down to the spot where she was, ” It would be my pleasure, my beautiful lady.” He cooed as he slides up next to her. The grazing of her skin against his sent sparks through his body, and she felt it to as she turned to look into his eyes. He flipped over so his body partly covered hers, she was trapped. He smiled a slightly wicked smile and came down on her lips hard and with intent. The kiss lasted to long, she had to break away so she could get a breath, she panted with desire and braced for the next devouring kiss. ” Can, wait,” she pleaded, but it fell on deaf ears. “Can, let me catch my breath, please.” She whispered. He stopped, raised up on one elbow and let his eyes sweep over her, searching her for approval to continue his ravaging of her. ” Sanem Aydin, you are the most delectable woman on earth, and having to wait for you is testing every bit of will I have.” He moved down to her neck, to smell her smell that was only hers. He ran his tongue down her chest into the valley between her breasts, she jumped and sucked in her breath. Her body was without command, her muscles jerked without control and her eyes rolled back in her head……” Hey, there you all are,” yelled Emre. ” what are you doing, I’ve been calling you for hours.” Can fell over on his back with his arms spread wide, as Emre came sprinting out from the house. Sanem grabbed her t-shirt and slipped it on. She was laughing on the inside, but she dare not laugh on the outside. ” Poor Can,” she thought, so many trials for him…

The next few days were work driven, and there hadn’t been much time for them to be together. And there was no more notes or flowers, so the threat of Taner seemed to be over. The Redmond ad was taking on a life of its own, and it looked like one of the best they had ever done. She was very excited to give the presentation to Mr. Mekken. The designs and colors were developing and coming along great. Mr. Mekken was due there for an update that afternoon, so they were making a collage of the ad to give a better vision of the whole campaign. Deren was set on a certain color pallet with the wedding theme that they had agreed on, but Sanem preferred a more muted tone, so the decision would be the clients. Mr. Mekken with Ceyda in tow, arrived right on time. They viewed the two ads and with Ceydas insistence he gave his approval to Sanem’s. Ceyda was pleased, she knew this would keep Sanem busy and she would for sure not be able to come with Can to the opening.

It was one more thing that Ceyda could do to sabotage Sanem’s happiness….

Chapter 9

Sanem knew her strategy, but what Ceyda didn’t know is, she never planned to go anyway. This would be the test of her will, to send Can, her man and only hers, off for a 5 day vacation with the likes of her. The queen piranha, the bitchest of all bitches, and she had her sights set of her man. Was she crazy or what, she must be, or just so much in love she had lost her better judgment. Whatever it was, she trust Can and that was it. They had been through so much and he still loved her like there was no tomorrow, so the least she could do is give him her undying love and trust..

Those 5 days would past so quick she would hardly know he was gone, she would be busy, she would make herself stay busy. The campaign was terrific, Mr. Mekken loved the concept, giving Sanem full rein on the entire ad. ” Mr. Mekken, you make me blush with such high praise .” She spoke. ” You know that I will have to hand over part of the campaign to Ms. Deren in a couple of weeks because of the wedding, don’t you.” She stated. He agreed but insisted that Sanem was in charge until then. Deren always had a hard time allowing Sanem to be in charge. Can agreed also, ” Of course Mr. Mekken, Sanem will handle everything up until the wedding and then Deren will take over, but with Sanem’s directions.” Deren is that satisfactory to you as well.” He asked. With doubt spinning through her mind, she smiled, ” Absolutely, I understand completely, I will be more than happy to step in for Sanem, when the time comes.” Why did she have to be so good at everything she did. She had all but taken her job, and she took the man she was supposed to have. These thoughts raged in Deren’s mind. Maybe it was time for her to move on, start somewhere fresh, and new. But this agency had been her life, it would be hard to leave.

Can and Sanem had moved the agency up the ladder of success, with landing the Redmond account they were a force to be reckoned with. Sanem and Deren worked hard on finalizing the project so far. Can’s best friend, Alif always took care of the printing for the agency, and it was no different in this case. The first set of posters were ready to be picked, Can was going to the gym for his training session and Sanem was on her way to pick up her dress that had been altered. ” Can, will be able to swing by and pick up the prints today, or shall I? ” Sanem asked as they both prepared to leave. ” I’m sorry love, but this is a very intense session and might run long, so maybe you should get them, if you can.” He stated. She agreed, ” Ok, I would like to see Akif anyway, I haven’t seen him in awhile,” she said. ” Hey, I can take his wedding invitation with me and not have to mail it.” She stated. ” I hope they can make it, ” she added.  She grabbed the invitation and headed towards the door, Can walked her out to get a taxi, with a kiss goodbye they agreed to talk later, after the workout. She made it to the printing house and pick up the prints, had a nice visit with Akif, and hand delivered the invitation.  Her friend smiled, ” Sanem, I remember the first time you came here with Can, I knew then you were special.” I could tell the difference in my friend, the light that shined from him was brighter.” He laughed. ” We knew before he did, that he was in love with you,” And we couldn’t have been happier.” You are his soulmate, the one that makes him smile.” I wouldn’t miss this wedding for the world.” He gushed, giving her a hug of genuine affection. He looked at his friend with questions, ” Did he invite Metin as well, it’s hard for me to watch my brothers drift apart like this,” he spoke, looking down to hide the tears welling up in his eyes. Sanem took his hands, ” Oh, my dear friend, I know this has been hard on you, seeing them like this, but Can is stubborn, this you know. “  ” He didn’t want to send him an invitation, I tried, but couldn’t convince him.” He still loves him, but is still hurt, so it will take longer to heal.” She said sadly. But I will continue to work on him, tell Metin I love him and not to give up.” They hugged goodbye, and she grabbed her taxi.

The dress was perfect, it fit her to a tee, just like she dreamed it would. It made her cry and the shop owner too. They wrapped it up and she was on her way, headed home to show her mother her perfect dress for her perfect day. How did her life get so right, with all the ups and downs in the relationship, she was sure this happy ending would never be. But here she is, living the dream of dreams, and In love with her Prince Charming. Her dress met the approval of the mother, Milihat and her sister. She hung it in her room, where she could look at it as she lay in bed. The phone rang, bringing her back to earth, it was Can. ” Yes, my love,” how was your workout.” She chimed. ” I miss you terribly, do you miss me.” She teased. Can sighed, ” You don’t know how much, my one and only.” How many days is it? 16 and 5 of those I won’t get to see you. I think it was a mistake for me to agree to go on this climb.” He groaned. He could barely make it through the nights without her, what made him think he would survive 5 days. He begged her to sneak out, grab a taxi and come join him in bed. ” You can get up early and be back home before your parents even know you we’re gone, please.” He begged, torturing her with his pleas. ” Can you know I can’t, so you’ll get us both so worked up, now it will be hard to go to sleep.” She whined. The being apart was harder and harder to deal with, he needed her, in every sense of the word. She was his breath to breathe, the pumping of his heart. His life would end if anything happened to her. He shuddered at the mere thought of it, his eyes teared up, and his heart ached. He shook his head to rid his mind of that fear, ” Nothing will ever happen, don’t be so silly, you let your imagination go wild.” He scolded himself. 

But for some reason a tiny piece of that fear stuck deep down in his soul, he could feel it there, it wouldn’t leave. The need to be with her captured his heart, but his dreams of her would have to do. 

And what dreams they were, his mind was filled with desire, the want, the release. And there, not one would interrupt them…. It was heaven.

Chapter 10

The list of things to do for the wedding, had nearly been completed. Mevkibe and Milihat had worked hard to organize it all. But all the same time, Sanem was just as buried in work. She notes and flowers had creased so whatever Taner had going on was over. That was definitely a relief on her mind. Deren and Ahmet were gathering the last ad billboards for the grand opening. Having to carry everything to Kayseri by hand was a task, and then it would be assembled there. Can had received the rundown for the climbing competition, he was excited because he had never competed before, he always climbed for pleasure, and most of the time alone. Having to participate as a team would test him. The grand opening was scheduled for a Thursday night, a huge affair so it seemed. The competition was to start Friday and last till Sunday.it would consist of various scenarios of climbing, techniques and timing. Cans plans were to head straight to the climbing site and get adjusted to the area. They had tents and all the equipment they needed already there. 

They were flying out on Wednesday, so they could set up the advertisements and prepare for the presentation. Can Would leave Thursday and go straight to the Cobanini camping site. They were climbing Mt. Erciyes to the east summit. It was exciting, and he was ready to go, but the reality of not seeing Sanem for several days, had him worried. He didn’t know how he was goin to do it. Tuesday was a crazy day, the packing of the presentation was tedious, there’s was no way they could damage them. Having a presentation that far away had its trials, it made it a lot harder. Ceyda made her appearance shortly after lunch, demanding the attention of all. She strolled into his office as he was organizing the workload for Sanem and Emre. ” Can, darling are you packed and ready to fly off on an adventure,” she swooned.” I can barely wait, the festivities are going to be tremendous, complete with a fanfare of celebrities. “I have spared no expense.” She bragged. Sanem shot Can a look of warning, and said, ” Ceyda, I think Can intentions are the climb, not the celebrations, am I right dear.” She spewed with a smile. Can knew to stand firm, ” Absolutely my love, I have no desire to attend the celebrations, I’m going for the competition only, you do understand don’t you.” He stated firmly. He looked at Sanem and gave her a wink of affirmation, assuring her he would handle Ceyda. 

Ceyda threw up her arms, ” Can thats not possible, you must attend the presentation, you are head of the ad agency. It simply wouldn’t look right. Can stiffened, ” Ceyda I am firm on this, I will not attend the presentation, that’s why Deren and Ahmet are going.”  If that’s not acceptable, then I will not go at all.” Ceyda stammered for the right words, ” Oh no Can, if you prefer not to attend then so be it.” The competition it will be.” She smiled at Sanem as if she had won a prize. Sanem didn’t like the look but Can had stood his ground against her. He told her he would fly in on Thursday’s and go straight to the base camp, he would wait there for the rest of the team to come. It would give him time to relax before the climb. All was agreed and she happily made her way out. Sanem thought, ” That was much too easy, she’s up to something, I just don’t know what.” They helped Deren and Ahmet load their documents and get to the airport, with the flight leaving midafternoon, they would arrive in the evening, and have the next day to assemble the presentation.

Can had a special evening lined out for him and Sanem. There had better not be any interruptions this time. He needed some real alone time with his bride- to- be. He had explained to Emre to make sure he had plans for the evening, and not to disturb them again. He had a special dinner prepared and brought by his friend, her favorite wine and a nice fire. This was the last night for a week and he wasn’t going to waste it. If he could take her with him, that would be his dream. She insisted on coming by taxi, he was there finishing up his packing. She came straight from work, but had changed into a spicy little number before she left. A red tight-fitting dress, with thin straps. She pulled her hair up into a top bun and a pair of black heels. She hoped she hadn’t presumed to much, but she knew he wanted this night to be special…. She rang his door, within seconds he opened, his mouth gaping and his eyes big.  She smiled, ” Yes, I have gotten the reaction I was hoping for.” She thought.  ” May I come in Can. ” She asked timidly. ” Or are you going to leave me on your doorstep all evening.”  He gulped, ” Of course, come in. My god you look sensational, Sanem.” You really are trying to kill me or drive me crazy one.” He wrapped his arms around her thin waist, covering her soft lips with his, sinking into the kiss at will. She welcomed him and returned his demand of her with a moan. ” Can, let’s at least have dinner first.” She sighed with regret. Can met her forehead with his, breathing heavy, ” Do you think that’s really necessary, they say humans can go days without food if they have to.” And I think I might have to. ” He whispered, kissing along her cheek to reach that sweet spot just below her jawline. That spot that had the most intense smell, it made him dizzy and exhilarated all in one sniff. 

Sanem wiggled from his arms, ” Can, let me in so we can close the door, the whole neighborhood will see.” She cooed. He swooped he up and carried her to the patio, she squealed with delight, knowing he would be hard to resist tonight, and she wasn’t sure she even wanted to. There’s was only 10 days to wait, was she sure could do it. This was just as hard on her as it was on him, her desire ran high, and hot. But she also had her beliefs and family to think about. She would have to wait… The dinner table was gorgeous and the food looked delicious, but Can only had eyes for her, and a different hunger filled those eyes, as he sat her down at the table. They ate this delicious meal without a sound, just those looks of want and desire. Could he wait, he doubted himself, she erupted every sense inside if him, the pull of her was like a magnet, and it made him lose his willpower.

Those dreams that had filled him all these weeks, They would have to maintain him…

He wanted that wedding night to be THE night, for everything….

Chapter 11

They lay cuddled together, wrapped up as one, on the lounger by the fireplace. This moment could last forever for her, the most favorite thoughts in her mind, are of Can with his arms firmly and tightly holding her, running fingers through her hair. It would never get old, even when they were. The warmth from him was all she needed, it made her feel safe, she knew he would always protect her. This was a full and total love of the heart and soul, so true, how could she not trust him. The hour had grown late and it was way past the time for her to leave. The pull to stay with him tempted her, but she remained strong and suggested he take her home. He moaned and whined like a child, ” Sanem, please stay here, l can’t take you home, not tonight.” He cried. She smiled and kissed his neck as she snuggled in deeper, “If only I could my love, what a glorious night this would be.” But all of this will be soon over, so let’s wait for that night, our wedding night, to contain all the wonderful feelings that it was meant to hold.” Just 10, no 9 now, days until we are one and I can call you husband.” She whispered. The thought filled him with happiness and hope, how his life was going to change and he couldn’t wait. This woman was his breath of life and love, she completed him in every way. How would he live without her for 5 days….

He agreed to take her home with a deep regret, but a deeper respect for her. She wouldn’t go with him to the airport the next day, they couldn’t let everyone see the pain they would have to say goodbye in such a public place. He parked in front of her house, the moment he had dreaded faced him. ” Be strong,” he told himself, “ it’s only a few days.” He ignored her pleas to stop and kissed every inch of face and neck that he could, she giggled with delight, not wanting it to end. He touched her forehead with his, ” My love these days will go by quickly, I promise.” He whispered. ” I will call every day, more than once probably. My flight will be in on Monday, at 11:30, so I should be at the agency by 12:30, so without any delays, I want you to have our tea, and be waiting in my office for me.” Do you understand, ” he whispered softly in her ear. Her breath was shallow and shaking as he lingered there letting his hot breath tingle her skin. She agreed and hesitantly stepped out of the car, their eyes stayed locked as he slowly drove away. She unlocked the door and went straight to her room. The reality of what was happening hit her, he’s gone, for days, and he will be with her…. But she trusted his love, as she recalled the tingle from his breath. Can had to refrain himself from turning around and going back, just to see her face one more time. But he drove on to his house, needing to finish the last-minute packing. His flight was early, and he needed to try and sleep. He opened the dresser for a last look and his eyes fell on her bandana, he immediately grabbed it, put it to his nose and sniffed. How did it still have her scent after all this time, but it did. He stuffed it in his pocket, it would come along with him, the next best thing to her…. her smell.

His flight left on time and soon he would be at the camp site. He had checked out the transportation to get to the mountain. There was a bus or a taxi, that would take him the lodge, and then from there it was an ATV. Or the next option was to rent a small truck, he could drive himself straight to the camp. He opted to rent a truck, and drive himself, he liked being in control. The plane landed at 11:00, Deren called as he waited to rent his truck. ” Can have you made it here yet?” she asked. ” Ceyda is on pins and needles, and she is driving us crazy.” She spouted. Can was annoyed, ” Yes Deren I just arrived, I’m renting a truck and heading to the camp site. ” He stated. ” What,” she screamed, ” No, you are supposed to be here, she told us you were coming here for the presentation.” She exclaimed. The anger grew, ” I told her I had no intentions of coming for the presentation, that’s why you and Ahmet are there.” He demanded. Deren had a small meltdown, but recovered quickly, ” Fine, Can, we can handle it, don’t worry, things will be fine.” She stuttered. Can spewed, ” And tell Ceyda, I’m not coming, I told her that, she just trying to trick me, and It’s not going to work.” Deren you can handle this.” He insisted. 

Sanem and Emre, were taking care of everything, it was running smoothly. No problems, the Redmond campaign was coming along nicely without a hitch. Her thoughts of Can still roamed in her mind, she wondered if he had made it there yet, if Ceyda had any surprises for him, and if so, how he handled them. As she was thinking, her phone rang making her jump, seeing it was Can, she quickly answered, ” Can, hello, are you there.” She asked, ” I miss you, so much.”  She cried. ” Hello my darling, yes just got here and rented my truck. I’m on my way to the camp site.” He said. ” It’s good to hear your voice, I miss you already too. ” Sanem…. I love you.” He swooned. She sighed, ” Oh Can, I love you too, I wish I was with you.” So Ceyda hasn’t try to capture you away or anything,” She stated. He laughed, ” Well, she did try trick me into coming to the presentation, but it didn’t work.” I’m not sure about phone reception here so I hope I don’t lose you.” He said. ” Ok my love, call me later, when you get settled, ok” she pleaded. They said their goodbyes and he promised to talk later. 

The camp was set and all ready to go, he was the only one there, so the solitude might do him good. He thought. He hiked around a bit but didn’t go too far. Just enough to familiarize himself with the land. It had been years since he had been there. As the night came, he stretched out in his sleeping bag, thinking about Sanem and what their life would be like, in just a short few days. He hoped the presentation was a success, it would put them on the map for advertising in Turkey. He drifted off holding her bandana in his hand, and the image of her in his mind….

Chapter 12

The presentation was a huge success, it was the event of the season. Fikri Harika would be the talk of the town for quite some time. Deren was basking in the limelight, willing to take all the praise for Sanem’s brilliant ideas. Ceyda was ready to get the competition going, compiling all the participants and busing them to the camp site. Deren and Ahmet packed up and got ready to catch their flight. She made another phone call to Can, to fill him in on the success of the ad campaign. He was elated for their company, and so proud of Sanem. ” So, was there a large crowd, ” he inquired. ” And I bet Taner was the center of attraction, he’s such a jerk.” He spouted. Deren hesitated, ” No Can, Taner wasn’t even there, they said he had urgent business and wasn’t able to attend.” Can perked up, ” Oh, really, so he won’t be on this climb?” He asked. ” As far as I know, he returned to Istanbul, some family function.” Deren stated.  Istanbul?  He thought, ” I didn’t know he had any family there.” That’s strange.”  Deren wished him luck on the climb and they hung up. He sighed, ” Istanbul, hmm.” He heard the bus pull in and went out to greet the group.

Ceyda was the first one off the bus, dressed in her climbing gear. He was stunned, ” What is she doing her, this is great, now I have her to put up with.” She bounded over to Can, threw her arms around his neck and placed a kiss so close to his mouth it shocked him. He pulled away, glancing around as everyone stared. She introduced all the team to each other, proudly stating, ” This is Can Divit everyone, you probably know him from his famous photography, and he’s also a phenomenal mountain climber. She linked her arm in his, beaming with pride, at the image she portrayed. Can stepped away, releasing her arm. He’s anger was deep and intent, ” How dare her cling all over me like that.” So this was her game,” he thought. He had half a mind to leave and show her he was tired of her games. She divided the group into teams, of course paring herself with Can. One of the other team participants asked, ” Ceyda, where is Taner, will he not participate in the climb? ” he asked. She shot a look at Can, then shifted her eyes around in a nervous twitch. ” No, Taner had some urgent family business to take care of, so I will stand in for him.” She shuddered. Her actions puzzled Can, she seemed on edge and nervous, making him more than suspicious. She announced, ” Yes, everyone, the competition will begin at 12:00. So let’s get ready to climb.” She yelled. 

Sanem was ready to call it a day, she was nervous with Can not there, what kind of problem would come up. She left with everyone else, and grabbed her bus, she wished she was going to Can’s house for dinner, but home to her parents would be her destination. At least for another few days. Her stomach fluttered at the thought. She decided to take a walk along the pier, just to clear her head before heading home. She loved the pier, she found her a bench and sat for a while. All the thoughts of the wedding and agency wandered through her mind, but someone was close behind her. She turned to see Taner, ” Taner, what are you doing here? Why aren’t you in Kayseri at the competition?” The tiny hairs on her body stood up and her guard began to rise. He smiled, ” I have a surprise for you, you’re not going to believe it.” He spouted. She stood to leave, ” No, no, don’t leave, here take my hand. ” He urged. ” Taner, what do you want? I need to get home, mom will be worried about me.” “Ah, Sanem, I’ve taken care of everything, I already told aunt Mevkibe that you’ll be going with me.” He demanded. ” Taner, I’m not going with you, do you understand,” she yelled. ” This is my surprise, Sanem, I’m taking you to Kayseri, to meet with Can.” It’s my wedding gift to you, you can spend a couple of days alone with your Can, it’s all been planned out.” Her mind was racing, ” What do I do, is he telling me the truth, I really can’t believe him. ” She was frantic. He took her arm and led her towards his car, ” It’s fine Sanem, we have everything prepared for you, you don’t have to take a thing,” just come with me.” She was shaking, unable to break his grip. She was paralyzed in fear, her feet couldn’t move so he almost dragged her to the car. 

They had completed the first leg of the competition and was ready to make camp for the night. Can wasn’t on his game at all, the whole Taner thing just didn’t set well with him. And then there was Ceyda, making a fool of herself. Her pitched his small tent and got settled. He rang Sanem’s phone, he knew she would be anxious to hear from him. It went straight to voice mail. Ok, he thought, give her a minute and try again. Everyone was gathering around the fire to get better acquainted, but he needed to talk to Sanem. He rang again, still straight to voice mail. He called Emre, ” Hey, Emre, is Sanem with you, or is she still at the office?” he questioned. ” Abi, no she’s not with me, and we all left the office together a couple of hours ago.” She doesn’t answer her phone?” He asked. Can began panic, ” Emre, where was she going, did she say, think, did she say anything.” He yelled. Emre thought, ” No, I think she was just going home, I guess.” Just calm down, Abi.” She’s fine I’m sure. Just give it a minute.” He said. Can took a deep breath, that little twinge that had been hidden down deep, was getting bigger, that twinge of fear of something happening to her. He called Mevkibe, ” Mom Mevkibe, has Sanem made it home yet, she’s not answering her phone.” Her mother welcomed Can, ” Can, son no, she’s not here yet, we have been waiting dinner for her, but-” He jumped up, ” When did you talk to her last? Do you remember what time?” He stammered. ” Oh, I guess it was late afternoon, she said she would be home for dinner. Leila had plans with some friends so she was coming home alone,” “Can, do you think something has happened to her?” She cried. He swallowed his fear and answered, ” No, don’t get upset, she probably stopped somewhere first. She’ll be home soon. I’ll keep trying to call her. He disconnected from her and covered his face with his hands. Why had he come on this stupid climb anyway, now he’s hundreds of miles away and he doesn’t know what’s going on. He rang her phone again……

He was getting a call.. maybe it was Sanem. But it was a video message from Taner.

Why is he messaging me?

Chapter 13

Sanem was begging,” Taner, please where are you taking me, you know my mom is going to be looking for me.” She yelled. ” Sanem I told you your mom knows you’re with me.” Just relax, we’ll be there soon.” He spouted. ” So you’re not taking me to Can, are you.,” I knew you were lying.” He turned and glared at her, and for the first time she saw the evil in his eyes. It scared her… Then he smiled, ” Sanem, here I have some food and something to drink, just try a little.” Her throat was tight and dry, so she took the thermos, ” What is it,” She asked. ” It’s tea, my love, I know you love your tea.” He smirked. She just had to have a sip, her throat was so tight from fear. ” Now, see things are fine.” He said. She yelled back, ” No they are not fine, Taner, take me back now.” Her anger began to take over her fear, as she took another swig of the tea. ” Let me out now!” She pleaded but he ignored her. He was driving her out of town, but she wasn’t sure where. As they drove along she felt her will to fight lessen, her mind getting foggy, she was feeling very sleepy… So sleepy she couldn’t keep her eyes open.

They arrived at the house, a small cottage house near the lake. Sanem was out, sleeping like a baby, just like he knew she would. He picked her up and carried her into the house. He placed her on the bed, she looked perfect, he thought. He tidied  up the rest of the room, he had turned the small house into a beautiful wedding chapel. With flowers and lights hung everywhere. He laid out her wedding dress next to her on the bed. This was perfection, he thought, this is what a special woman like her deserves. He just needed to make her see it. ” Ok, now the next step, let’s make a special video to send to Can. He will see what can happens when you least expect it. He took his phone and panned the room, showing the flowers, the lights and all the decorations he had worked so hard on. Then on to the bed, Sanem lying next to the dress, ” Hello Can, we wanted to invite you to our special wedding.” He spewed. ” We have designed a beautiful wedding and we are so excited to let you know. Sorry you had to find out like this, but this is the way it had to be. I told you she would choose the right man. Wish us luck!

This would be the event of the year, Taner thought, although it was only him and Sanem. They would be happy for the rest of their lives. So let’s send this video and let the party begin.  

Can stared at the phone and opened the message… his fear was overwhelming. Taner, what are you up to, he thought. His mind refused to go to that place of something bad happening to her. The video was playing and he could hear Taner talking, but it made no sense. His mind was blank, numb. He was saying a wedding, Can saw the flowers, but what did this mean. As the video made it around to the bed, and Sanem lying there, motionless, next to a wedding dress, his fear took him to a place he had never been. He screamed, yelled, he lost all of his control. His eyes had to be wrong, he hadn’t seen that. The panic was set in, deep into his soul, he had to get to her. He ran to Ceyda’s tent, she was talking loudly to someone on the phone, he stopped to listen. ” Taner, you were never supposed to go that far, are you crazy!” She shouted. ” When Can finds out, he’s going to go crazy.” Can was uncontrollable, he busted into her tent, ” Where is she, Ceyda? Tell me now!” Her eyes were wide in fear, ” Can, what are you talking about, who?” She cried. ” Ceyda, that’s Taner on the phone, and he has Sanem, and I want to know where. NOW.” He yelled. She quickly hung up, ” Can please try and calm down, are you sure about what you’re saying.” He shoved his phone in her face and hit the play button, letting her watch the demented video that Taner had sent him. 

She watched in horror, how had this happened, she thought. What had possessed him to kidnap her. He really was a sick man, why had she not seen it before. She backed away from Can, his rage had terrified her. He looked at her with eyes like burning coal, ” You tell me now, where he was taken her, or so help me Ceyda, when I’m done with you and your company, you won’t even be able to sell a carabiner clip. I’ll destroy you and your family.” He said with gritted teeth. Her heart was beating out of her chest, and she could barely breath. ” Can, I’m sorry, I never meant for it to go like this.” She cried. “He was just supposed to distract her.” Can yelled, ” Ceyda, where is she?” She was crying now from fear, ” I think he took her to his cottage, it’s outside of Istanbul, somewhere on a lake.” She sobbed. “That’s all I know Can, really.” Can paced back and forth, “What lake Ceyda? ” He demanded. ” I don’t know for sure Can, really, but it’s a small lake, it’s more like a large pond.” She explained. 

He stormed out of her tent, he ran to his truck, but where was he going, the flight home would take almost three hours, that is if he could even get a flight out. He drove like a crazy man back towards town. He was desperate, he called the only person he knew could help her.  ” Metin, I need your help,” he shouted. ” Can, is that you brother, what’s wrong?” He asked. “What’s happened?” “Brother, Sanem’s in trouble, and I’m in Kayseri, she needs you, can you please find her.”  His voice broke, as he sobbed, ” Please Metin, you have to help. I don’t know what I’ll do if something happens to her.” He cried uncontrollably. ” Can, my brother, I would do anything for Sanem, just tell me what’s going on.” He replied. Can tried to calm down, but he couldn’t make the words come out to make sense. ” He sent a video, that sick bastard. He took her to a cottage by a small lake. She wasn’t moving, ” He cried, ” Metin, you have to find her, I won’t be able to get home for a while.” Metin tried to calm him, but it was no use, and he himself was beginning to feel the fear.  “Just send me the video Can, and this guys name, and I’ll find the place. Don’t you worry, I’ll have her back before you get home.” Metin knew the responsibility he had, if he couldn’t find her, what would happen to his friend, his brother. He didn’t even want to think about It. He would find her…

Can sent the video to Metin. He finally got to the airport. He had a flight out in a few hours and would home by morning.

He sat with his head in his hands, the tears refused to stop…. Sanem…. I’m so sorry, I let you down, I was to supposed to protect you forever.

Chapter 14

Can paced the floor, waiting for the flight. It had been three hours since he had called Metin and sent all the information. He knew his friend would do everything possible to find her, of that he no doubt. He had his ways, and Can was thankful of that. The flight was called, and he hurried to the gate. The quicker he could get there to help Metin the faster he could get his hands of Taner. And the thought of that brought a satisfaction that fulfilled him, he could kill him with his bare hands, and never think twice. Such a waste of life, he didn’t deserve to live, he would make sure he was locked up for the rest of his life.

His flight would take 3 hours and 22 minutes, a lot could happen in that length of time, he prayed it wouldn’t. Not hearing from Metin had him stressed, but he hated to call and interrupt his investigation. The flight was an hour in when he got a text from Metin, ” Brother, you said his name was Taner Yilmaz right? “ Can replied, ” Yes, have you found anything? I’m on the plane now but won’t land for another couple hours.” He sent.  ” There’s a lead, I’ve got a couple of officers with me, and we will check it out. Don’t worry, I’ll find her” Metin replied. Can closed his eyes willing the tears away, but he couldn’t do anything about the knife that was lodged deep in his heart, causing the deepest pain he had ever felt. 

Taner sat by the bed, staring at her. So beautiful and innocent, his Sanem, she took his breath away. She would soon wake up and he would show her the spectacular surprise he had for her. She was sleeping much longer than he had anticipated, so it shouldn’t be long now. His phone rang, ” Hello Ceyda, what can I do for you, I don’t want to hear how crazy I am either. You wanted this just as much as I did.  Ceyda shouted, ” Taner I never expected you to do this, you were just to distract her, make here forget all about Can, so I could make my move. And yes I will call you crazy.” She screamed. ” Can is on his way back, so if he finds you, your life is over.” You better move to another place.” She warned. Taner was concerned, Maybe she was right, but where would he go, and they hadn’t had their ceremony yet, and all the festivities were planned for there.” His mind was darting about trying to think of another place. All she needed really, was her dress, that’s all that mattered. 

Metin had checked for all cabins or cottages that were owned on the lake, they had hit a dead end. One of the officers remembered another lake a little further out of town. It was small, and a little hard to get to, so they decide to check it out. The property owners had listed their properties at the court houses so Metin contracted his friend that worked there and he was checking them out. Trying to match the names to the place, it would take a while. After about 45 minutes, his friend called him back, ” Metin, I have a match of surnames, but not of first names, on a property off the old road leading to Valide Sultan Pond.” It’s registered to Mustafa Yilmaz, but it seems he is deceased. It’s a bit out of the way, and no one has lived there for years.” Metin was overjoyed, this the break he was looking for. He had also sent a detective to the agency to search her office for anything that could point them towards Taner. Someone had found her purse and phone abandoned at the pier and had brought to the station. They were going through her texts and phone calls as well. 

With the text and calls from Taner that was on her phone there was enough to strengthen the search for her. Metin really had some help now. They had turned up the note that Taner had sent to Sanem, and she stashed away in her desk. Another damaging piece of evidence against Taner. The whole office was in shock, and afraid for Sanem and Can. Taner didn’t seem that type of person, but his attention of Sanem did bring alarm. Metin chose not to relay every piece of information to Can, he knew his friend all too well. He knew he was already planning the death of Taner Yilmaz, and it wouldn’t be pretty. The less he knew fight now, the better. They were going to check out the cottage on the pond, and hopefully it would be a success. 

Taner was loading the necessities into his car, taking extra care with the wedding dress, still not sure where they would go. There was a possibility they could find them there so moving was the only option. Sanem had been out for hours, much too long. The sedative in the tea had done a number on her, but at least it was less time he had to fight with her and convince her that he was her life now. He sat down to look at the map, ” Which way should we go,” he said out loud. They may have the main road blocked so I’ll have to take the backroad out.” He said. Sanem listened, keeping her eyes closed tightly, she would fake her sleeping as long as possible. Maybe he would reveal his plan without even knowing it.  ” Ok, I think I can make it out this way, ” he stated. ” Ok then, let’s get going.” He took one last look around at the beautifully decorated cottage, ” Well this didn’t work, so move on to plan B.” He bent down and picked up Sanem, he gently carried her out to the car. As he tried to open the door, four policemen and Metin emerged from the woods, ordering him to raise his hands. With guns drawn, Taner knew this plan was over. They were yelling at him, ” Sir put her down, please lay her on the ground and step away, keep your hands up! Do it now, put her on the ground! “ Taner laid her on the ground and stepped back. Metin rushed in, kneeling down to Sanem. She opened her eyes, “Metin how did you find me?” She reached for him, encircling his neck with her arms and sobbing.

” Ah, my friend. I’m so glad you’re ok. Can’s on his way, He begged me to find you and I’m so glad I did!”

Chapter 15

They quickly surrounded Taner, handcuffed him, and shoved him in the police car. Two of the policemen stayed to search the cottage, they took pictures of the condition it was in. It was eerie how he had transformed it into a spectacular wedding chapel. Metin insisted she go to the hospital to be checked out and they were taking Taner to the police station, where he would be for quite a long time. She refused to let go of Metin, clinging to him like glue. ” Metin, where’s Can? I know he’s worried sick.”  Metin hugged her tight “he’s on his way, should be here in about an hour. I’ll text him and let him know you’re safe. But you’re going to the hospital. Can entrusted you to me, so you’ll do as I say.” He scolded with a smile. She nodded, laying her head on his shoulder. 

Cans plane was 30 mins out and he was hanging on by a thread, not knowing what was going on made him sick. Metin would find her, he had to, he couldn’t live without her. He leaned back and closed his eyes, thinking of all their times together, good and bad. And through it all, he loved her more than anything in his life. Their wedding flashed across his mind. “She has to be ok, we have waited so long to be happy. Please don’t let anything happen to her.” He prayed. He wrapped her bandana around his hand and held it against his lips. The ping of his phone jarred him, he grabbed his phone, it’s Metin, ” Brother, rest easy, I have her in my arms right now, safe and sound. I’m taking her to the hospital just for precautions, so come there.” Can stared, blinded by the tears that fell. He would never be able to thank Metin enough. His heart could beat again, his soul could live again, she was safe. 

Mevkibe and Nihat sat huddled by the phone, with Leila and Emre pacing the floor, making phone call after phone call trying to learn something. This waiting had taken a toll of her father. His health was in question and the stress of this could prove to be too much. They prayed and held each other, when they heard Emre shouting at someone on the phone, ” Brother are you serious! You have her, my god, Metin thank you! Yes, I’ll tell them.” Emre ran to the couple, ” Metins got her, they found her. He’s taking her to the hospital to be checked. Come on, let’s go.” Her parents hugged and cried with joy that their youngest daughter had been found safe. How would they thank Metin enough and Can for asking Metin to help. They rushed to the hospital, with anticipation and happiness to see her. 

With all the evidence they found, it looked like Taner would be put away for quite some time. Maybe Ceyda too, it just depended on how much information they could get on her. The reunion between the parents and their daughter was heart wrenching, but joyful. She was fine but just a little dehydrated, with an IV she would recover nicely. ” Doctor, how long before I can go?” she asked. ” Let’s give you some time, we’re not sure what kind of sedative he gave you. Be patient.” the doctor urged. Leila sat with her while their parents talked to the doctor, she held her hand, ” Sanem, Can’s going to be crazy when he gets here, you know that don’t you? He was sick with worry. And I can’t believe he asked Metin to help.” This should mend their friendship, I hope. Sanem was tired but happy. Happy it was over and happy that Can swallowed his pride and reached out to Metin. He couldn’t have made a better choice. 

The doors on the plane were barely open before Can sprinted down the hall towards the exit. He had left his truck at the airport so he didn’t need a taxi. He was at a full out run when he got to the parking lot to get to his truck. And the drive to the hospital he made in record time. Emre had gave him the room number already, so just park and get there as fast as possible. He exited the elevator and hurried down the hall, seeing Emre first, ” Brother, you made it, she’s fine just dehydrated, she in here.” He opened the door and his eyes found her, nothing could be more beautiful. He covered her with his body, holding her tight he wept ” Sanem, my love, never again will I leave you. I’m so sorry I wasn’t here to protect you. Are you ok? He didn’t hurt you?” He touched her body and looked over every inch of her. She laughed, ” No my love, he didn’t hurt me. I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you about the notes and texts from Taner, but I took them as harmless. Forgive me, my darling. But things are fine now. You’re here, I’m here, our wedding is almost here, life is so good.” She gushed. 

Can was still inspecting her when the door opened, Sanem smiled. ” And there’s my guardian angel of the day,” she held out her hand. ” Metin, come sit.” Can turned to see his friend and brother, the person that had saved his life from ending. How could he thank him enough. He grabbed him and hugged him without hesitation, ” My brother, thank you, thank you for saving her. I knew I could count on you. My heart is so full of love for you, I’ve missed you so. Will you forgive me for turning my back on you?” He begged. Metin smiled, ” Can, you are my blood and will be forever, and there’s nothing I would forsake you or Sanem.” This woman is special, she has changed you into a humble and forgiving person, and for that I am thankful.” They embraced again, and Sanem cried as she watched.

Four days later.

“Come on Emre, it’s time to go.” Can rushed to grab his long vest, the one that Sanem liked so much. No tuxedo tonight, he would wear the outfit that she loved on him the most, and he was most comfortable in. Metin and Akif watched as their best friend and brother prepared for the biggest night of his life. Their happiness was boundless. A wedding at dusk, it would be perfect, saying ” I Love You” as the sun goes down, nothing better. There was mention of a party afterwards and they said it might last all night long. Not for him, their party was for two only and it definitely would be ” All Night Long”…….

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