The Brothers… Their Story Continues

by grannydew, posted in The Divit Brothers Series

Introduction

The Divit Brothers….Efe and Kadir.

This story begins as they have just entered adulthood. Their upbringing had been one of love and devotion for their family. Their parents had given them all that was necessary for them to live a full and happy life. Their Dad had a larger-than-life existence, making then both want to be just like him, self-assured and confident. Never doubting what he had wanted in life and didn’t hesitate to go after it. Both sons strived to be what he was, and to be worthy of the Divit name….

Their mother had a soul of such depth and meaning, they both couldn’t help but be filled with a compassion to match that of their mothers. Especially Kadir, he had taken her desire of writing and found a way to express himself through words. Her son was as talented as she, but the desire to share it with the world wasn’t something he wanted to do, he kept that to himself, the writing that is, but not so much the talent he took from his father…. photography. He had already won many awards in school for the pictures he had taken while they took their excursions on the boat. He had that passion to record what touched him, what moved his soul, so that all could see it.

Efe was as much his father’s son as anyone could be. Beautiful, charismatic, smart, and full of confidence. All the traits of Can himself, all of those that made people notice you, and notice him they did…. Graduating from the university with honors and a business degree, Efe Divit was sure to be a successful businessman, but the wandering soul of his fathers was also deeply embedded into hIs heart. 

A blend of Can and Sanem, these boys that were quickly moving into manhood, ready to embark on a journey they could call their own…

The Divit Brothers…special, dynamic and handsome. But what more would we expect from Can and Sanem Divit……..

Chapter 1

“But Dad, I feel like I have been going to school my whole life, I’m ready to just have some fun for a change.” The young man, Efe Divit, had been having a discussion with his father, about taking a year off before starting his career in one of the largest Marketing Consultant firms in Madrid. Efe had been in the top ten at the university there for the past 2 years, prompting all the major firms to come calling on him to work for them. Which would mean a move to Madrid, and a change from what his life had always been. The thought of leaving Malaga was weighing heavy on his heart, but most of all leaving the sea and all that he had known growing up. Can paced on the boat, ” But Efe, you may not get the same offer from that company in a years’ time, who knows” his father wanted so to support his son in whatever he wanted to do, just as his father had done, but letting go was a lot harder than he had anticipated. Efe faced his dad, ” I realize that, but maybe that’s not my path, what if I want to be my own boss. That’s what you did, you took what you loved and made your way with it.” His son challenged his dad with his eyes. 

He was his father’s son, so defiant and confident in himself. He had the same eyes, the same way with words, the same determination to be what he wanted to be, Can felt like he was looking in the mirror. Can felt himself waver, start to feel the way he had years ago at that age. “Efe, how are you going to convince your mother, she’s the one that will be heartbroken.” The young man, in much the Divit manner, looked into his dads eyes, ” Well, I was hoping I could count on you to do that for me.”  Those persuasive eyes that always talked much more than words, were glaring straight into his dads. Can sighed, “Son, I’m not going to do this for you, if you want to sail off on this boat for several months, then you must be the one to tell your Mom.” Just the words had already stirred up emotions in him that he didn’t like. “And what about Paola, is she ok with this.” Efe fell back against the bow of the boat, ” Dad, why do you have to bring up Paola, we don’t have that kind of relationship, it’s just casual.” He shook his head, completely annoyed with his dad’s actions. Can immediately thought of the years he had been with Polen, and how unnecessary that time had been. He saw his son going down the same path as he had traveled, and he hoped he would find his destiny just as he had. 

The discussion was quickly turning into an argument, so not what Efe had wanted. He couldn’t understand why his dad was giving him a hard time about this, ” Dad look, I’m more an average sailor, I know how to handle the boat, if that’s what you’re worried about. Please don’t worry at all about Paola, I can handle her too.”  A slight smile that crept across his face, and that look of cockiness that only Efe Divit could have. ” Hey, I know, I’ll take Kadir with me, then I won’t be alone, and it will give him a bit of excitement in his life.” That statement made Can feel worse, but he knew how serious his son was, he also knew his youngest son would jump at the chance to sail off with his brother on some exotic adventure. Can felt defeated, a loss for words, why was raising kids so hard. Can held steady to his word, ” I know your mother won’t have it Efe, but it’s your decision, and you have to convince her.” The young man smiled, giving him a wink, “Ok, it’s time to turn on that Divit charm.” Can closed his eyes, remembering back when he felt the same way, so full of himself and strong. “I guess it’s not such a bad thing to be so arrogant, but he knew his wife, and she wouldn’t be so understanding.” 

Kadir had just finished the first year of school, but his outlook was much different than Efe. He couldn’t wait to start a career, make his own way, not that he wasn’t the adventurous type, it wasn’t the same kind of adventure. His was that of discovering what he could do through books, and language, but he also was an avid photographer. His desire to become a writer wasn’t anything he would pursue, that was just for himself, an avenue to express what he felt about his photos. He loved language, all of them, and he fluent in Turkish of course, English, Spanish, Italian and French as well. But he wanted to learn them all, any language he could. Kadir biggest dream was to have his photos in magazines all over the world and be able the write the description of what they were seeing, but that seemed to be more of a hobby than a proper career. He had intended to go into the literature field, hoping that he could use that to further his love of photography. He had already worked part time at a publishing house during the summer doing some translating for them. He had found that quite interesting, everything about publishing seemed to call to him.

Sanem was at her favorite place on the beach, when Efe and his dad arrived back from the boat. She knew by the look on Cans face there was something they needed to talk to her about. “Efe, do you have a request from your mother.” Can nodded, raising his eyebrows, giving the young man the signal to talk to his mother. Sanem turned to look at her son, “What is it, what do you want now.” Sanem knew her son well, and all his mannerisms. What he had to say seemed to be stuck in his throat, he smiled at her, ” Mom, I thought maybe I could take a few months off before jumping right into work, you know, maybe taking the boat out for a while. Sanem’s heart had already sank, “And go where Efe, what did you have in mind.” She studied her son’s face, that face that was so much like his fathers. ” I thought Sardinia, and Sicily, and maybe even as far as the Greek Islands. It would just be for perhaps 6 months.” His eyes begging her, making her resistance low, ” And you would do this alone, I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” He quickly spoke up, ” No, I plan on taking Kadir with me.” Sanem spun around, ” Kadir…so both of my sons want to go off for months, to travel the seas alone, do I have that right.” She had stood and was glaring at him. He swallowed hard, ” Yes mother, I guess you do.”

Kadir had caught the last of the conversation, as he walked out to the beach, ” Travel where.” he asked, making them all turn to look. Efe grabbed his brother, pulling him into the discussion, ” We are going to take a trip ABI, just you and me.” Efe smiled, trying to lighten the mood. Can leaned his head back and closed his eyes, he knew Sanem must be at her breaking point. Kadir looked around in disbelief, ” We, as in me, you and Dad.” He searched their faces, trying to figure it out. ” No Kadir, just you and me, how does that sound. We can sail around to a few islands, meet some new people, you know, just have some fun.” Sanem took a deep breath, closed her eyes and realized she had just lost the first of many battles against those boys. 

Can avoided her look but could feel it. She finally smiled, and asked, ” What about your job Efe, are you giving that up.” He answered quickly, ” No mother, just postponing it. I feel I need a break before diving into the next phase of my life, that’s all.” Can looked at his wife and saw the woman he loved struggling just as he had when he heard what his son had in mind. 

Efe stepped closer to his mother, “Mom, I can do this, it’s just for a while. I want to be free from everything for a bit. I have worked hard in school for years, now I want a few months to relax.” 

Looking at Can, she knew she was alone in this fight, so she would give in to them. 

Why did she feel she was losing her sons to that boat and the sea……

That boat……that damn boat. She nodded, giving her permission, but it would be harder to give her blessing.

Chapter 2

Kadir had stood in silence, while Efe and his parents discussed what his brother had proposed. Did he hear it right, Efe wanted to take a trip in the boat and be gone for a few months. The thought of it excited him, but he immediately thought of his studies, and his part time job at the newspaper as their photographer. Efe turned to him, ” What do you say Abi, are you ready to go conquer the world” His eyes glistening with excitement. Kadir hesitated for a minute, ” But Efe, I have my classes and my job, and they are my responsibility. I don’t know if I can be gone that long.” Efe threw his hands up in the air, “Come on Kadir, you have plenty of time for responsibilities later, right now let’s just go have some fun.” How do you know what might be waiting for us out there.” Can and Sanem both looking at each other, they knew Kadir would be the one to think about school and his job, but in the end they knew he would go along with his brother. This brother that he worshiped, and adored and would do anything for…

Kadir thought for a minute, looking at his Dad, ” What do you think Dad, should I take this time off.” He always sought the advice of his Dad, and his approval. To him his father could do no wrong, but there had always been a small riff between Efe and his Dad. His mother said it was because they were so much alike. Can looked at his youngest son, ” If you feel you need some time away, some fun time, as Efe puts it, then that what you should do.” I’m sure your job will wait on you if you explain.” Their Dad told him. Kadir smiled that electrified Divit smile, ” Ok then, let’s do this Efe.” He high fives his brother and gave him a bear hug. Sanem watched as the agony of a mother raged inside her. She knew her men so well, they all seemed to be running after something… adventure, their destiny and for that of the unknown. Whatever it was, she hoped they found it and returned home in one piece. She smiled, ” Well it seems everyone has made their decision, so, when are you leaving.” She asked, trying not to let her feeling show.

Efe wrapped his Mom up in his arms, ” Thank you my dearest mother, I know this isn’t easy for you, but you do know we will be fine. We both know how to handle the boat, and Kadir can cook so we won’t starve.” He joked, winking at Kadir. Her oldest son had the charm and dynamic personality of his father, so he always had her wrapped around his little finger. Sanem rolled her eyes at his gesture but at the same time welcomed the intent behind it. He knew how to work her. She pushed him away from her, ” Ok, you may have won this battle, but I want an itinerary of everywhere you intend to go. I need to keep track of you both….you know, just in case of a storm or something I’ll know where you are.” Her eyes tearing up at the thought. They both agreed and Can watched on as she accepted the decision that both her sons had made. She turned to Kadir, ” I want you to look after your older brother, you know how he can get into trouble.”  She told him, placing her hands on his cheeks. This boy, that thought he was already a man, was perhaps the kindest person she knew. So thoughtful and respectful of his parents, always seeking what they had wanted in life. Sanem had a special bond with Kadir, a bond that they both shared. 

Can knew it was taking all his wife had to accept what their trip, but being the giving and passionate mother she was, he knew she would eventually send them off with her blessing. These boys were her world, and there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for them. Efe grabbed Kadir, giving him a little roughing up, ” This one look after me, I think it will be the other way around, Mom.” He laughed at the thought of it. Efe was a good bit taller than Kadir, but both men were muscular in stature. Sanem glanced at Can, seeing a glimmer of a tear in his eyes, she thought back to so many years ago of how this same boat had taken him away from her. But in the same thought, she remembered it had also brought him back, and she felt it would do the same with her boys. She had to believe that….

Immediately Efe and Kadir started charting their path of the sea. With the help of their Dad, they mapped out the best route to take to reach the island of Ibiza, and then from there, Sardinia. After that Efe wanted it to be an adventure in uncharted waters but Can knew Sanem would have something different to say about that. They would take a couple of days to settle some things, with Kadir placing his classes on hold, and taking a leave from his job. Efe had only to ask for an extension on his job offer, and lastly…..say goodbye to Paola, then they would stock the boat with supplies and be on their way. It all sounded so simple; they would just sail away without a care in the world. Kadir took care of responsibilities quickly, with his professors gladly extending his classes, and his boss at the newspaper assuring him he would have his job when he returned, but it was laced with a bit of jealousy. He had been an exceptional student at the university, at the top of his class, and the newspaper loved him and looked forward to the photos from his journey. 

As the next few days flew by, with all the preparations being made, Efe had yet to talk to Paola. He had sent all her phone calls to voicemail, or declined the call all together, dreading the conversation he would eventually have to have with her. Their relationship was by far more important to her than to him. He had never promised her anything but had let her assume this was a committed relationship. Probably not the most honorable thing to do, but he wasn’t ready to settle for just one woman. He could have his pick from any single woman in Malaga, and probably from some that weren’t. He had that Divit charm that had transferred to him from his father, with Efe taking taking full advantage of what he had been gifted, unlike that of his father. So, the goodbye to Paola would more than likely turn into a drama scene, one which he wasn’t looking forward to. There had already been a lot of turmoil between the two, due to the attention from other women, but she had always refused to part ways. This maybe the only way he could relinquish their relationship without completely devastating her. He had always valued her as a friend, but his feelings for her were not what she had wanted. 

Efe wasn’t sure if he ever wanted a serious relationship with just one woman, he always seemed to want more……”So many fish in the sea”… he always thought.

Chapter 3

They had decided to leave on Saturday, only because Kadir had insisted on finishing that week’s classes. Things were packed into the boat and the supplies had been stocked. Their clothes had been the hardest thing gather, although it was in the hot months, being on the sea could bring a multitude of seasons in just one day, so they had to pack for every occasion. Sanem had gone through the motions of preparing them to leave, as if the thought of her two sons embarking out on a totally foolish adventure was not at all concerning to her. She pushed all the thoughts of something bad happening as far away from her mind as she could, but it was still there, lurking like a bad dream. The two were so excited and Can seemed to be beaming with pride for his two sons and the fact they were, “off to become men” or so they said jokingly. But she could tell by the look in her husband’s eyes, he was just as worried as she was, maybe more. Can knew all too well the hazards of the sea and manning a boat, be it in fair weather or fowl, there’s was nothing more demanding on the heart and soul of a man than that. Can had done it all alone, with nothing but his skills and the remembrance of the woman he loved to keep him company. At least they would have each other…..

Efe had put off his talk with Paola until he couldn’t any longer, and her calls to him were becoming more and more demanding. He texted her to meet him at their favorite cafe in town, he had thought maybe she would be less likely to cause a scene in a public place……but he was wrong. She had arrived before him and was already worked up into a fit a jealousy, convinced he had found another woman. That had always been the problem, the other women, or so she thought. They been together for quite some time, and in her heart they were that perfect couple,  with the interference of other women’s attention being the reason for their many disagreements. She was always ready to fight for her man, and she had on many occasions, with all her heart. But Efe had never given her any validation that they were that exclusive couple. 

As he arrived at the small outdoor diner, he could see her sitting there. She was indeed a beautiful woman, that long jet-black hair, her skin, silky and delicately bronzed. She was very much a sight to behold. But she just didn’t make his heart skip that beat or make him lose that ability to think or speak correctly, these were all the things he had heard over and over from his father about how he felt the first time he saw his beloved Sanem. He had never had those feelings, and wasn’t sure that he ever would, but he didn’t want to settle for just a pretty face, that was something he could get anywhere. She turned and watched him walk towards her, that man that made her heart stop at times, the long flowing hair, his body that was defined with rock hard muscles and his skin the color of a rich tanned cloth. He was exquisitely handsome, and she wasn’t about to lose him without a fight. She had given herself to him, heart soul and body, so he was hers and only hers. 

” Paola, how are you my dear.” His voice even made her shiver, as he kissed her hand. She smiled, blinking her eyes feverishly to regain control, ” Efe…..I’m fine, and you.” She stammered as she let her eyes graze over his face. Just the sight of him made her weak, and that desire to be with him filled her body. She had only been with one other man and that was when she was first out on her own, a few years ago, and that was before she laid eyes on Efe Divit and his magnificent physique. This man could satisfy her like none other, and she wanted him like she had never wanted anything else in her life. “You look ravishing as always, I do have to say.” He let his eyes drift down over her body, a body he had touched and felt many times, as he felt that strong desire start to build. He shook his head, as if to clear it and concentrate on the reason he was there. He smiled at her, ” Well I have some news for you, my brother and I are leaving tomorrow on a trip.” He let the words just tumble out of his mouth, without any kind of filter. “We are taking a hiatus from school and work for a while and going to sail the seas. I think we will be gone for several months, so I don’t want you to wait for me, that just wouldn’t be fair, so maybe this would be a good time to dissolve our relationship.” His words sounded cruel, even to his ears, but they just kept coming out and he couldn’t stop them. 

She stared at him blankly her eyes slowly filling with tears, had she heard him correctly. She cleared her throat, ” Excuse me, did I hear that correctly, you and Kadir are going sailing the seas, and you want to dump me in the process.” Do I have that right.” She sat up straight in her chair, her eyes filled with tears and anger. ” So, you want to dissolve our relationship, were those the words you used.” Her voice took on a high-pitched sound that almost hurt his ears, as he shifted in the seat. She had that look of hurt and pain he always hated to see on her face, but this was the way it had to be. He reached for her hand, but she jerked away, ” Dissolve our relationship…….that sounds like a business term, a contract that didn’t mean anything.” She raised her voice to all most a yell and people around were starting to look. Efe was trying to calm her down, but before he knew it she had slapped him hard across the face. She stood, ” I will be more than glad to dissolve this relationship my dear, evidently your words are as empty as your heart.” Go…..have your fun, I won’t allow you to hurt me any longer.” He sat there looking at her with his mouth open, she had just humiliated him in front of a cafe full of people and he had nothing to say. He watched her walk away down the street, her head held high as if to make a statement of defiance. After minutes he finally left, still not quite sure of what happened, she had thrown him for a loop, he expected a fit of denial at his leaving, or maybe a bit of begging for him not to go, but….he never expected a slap across the face and a dismissal of him like that.

As he drove home, the feel of that slap still stinging his skin, he wondered if she really meant what she said, his words were as empty as his heart, he hoped he didn’t have an empty heart. He hoped one day to find that woman to make him want to settle down, the one to make his heart stop at the sight of her, to make him think of nothing else but her. 

What do you call that……oh yes, Love…

Chapter 4

Efe went straight to the boat when he arrived back home, still reeling from the encounter with Paola. The least said about it the better he thought, and he knew his mother would be the first to ask about their meeting. He did a last-minute check on everything on board, making sure they had plenty of batteries, and chargers on deck. They had brought several large water containers on board also, so that meant they would have to go ashore quite often to replenish their water supply and check out the outlying places. He wanted to sail and drift to wherever their hearts would take them, no agenda, just freedom..He sat staring out across the water, thinking about all the times they had made family excursions together, with his Dad teaching them both all the tricks of running the boat. Now it would be up to him to remember everything he taught them, how to stay in control, not to panic if trouble should arise. He tried to calm himself, but it seemed his excitement of this adventure on his own had him nervous.

He was so involved in his thoughts he didn’t hear his Mom come aboard, ” Here you are, what are you doing here, your father has made dinner for the two of you and we are waiting for you.” He jerked around, startled, ” Oh, ok I’ll be right there, I was just giving it a last check.” He smiled at his mother. He knew she would be able to pick up on his feeling if he looked at her to long, so he quickly stood and started to leave the boat, reaching out his hand to her to help her over the bow of the boat. She hesitated, forcing him to look her in the face, ” Son, you can’t hide from me, you know that don’t you, are you having second thoughts about this trip, or did your meeting with Paola go badly.” He closed his eyes, how did she always know his mind, he could never get by with anything with her. He sighed heavily, ” Not second thoughts, just a bit of  nerves, I hope I can remember all that Dad taught me.”  Sanem smiled, ” You know this boat backwards and forwards, and you know in your mind what to do, don’t second guess yourself. Take this time to enjoy.” But I don’t think that’s all that’s bothering you, am I right.” He looked down, shifting his eyes away, ” I hurt Paola badly, and I feel horrible about it, but I didn’t see the need to lie to her.” But I said it in an insensitive manner, and it hurt her.” He glanced at his mother, his eyes full of regret. 

This man was so much like his father in some ways, not wanting to intentionally hurt someone was a big factor in the problems that she had when it came to Polen in their relationship. Can wasn’t one to be brutal with someone’s feelings, except when it came to lying. She reached for Efe’s hand, ” Tell me, did it hurt you to tell her you were leaving, or did her reaction hurt you.” He smiled, how well so knew him, ” It was just her reaction, no, I know it’s the right thing to do,….I don’t love her.” His admission shocked her, but by the look on his face, she knew it was true. She wrapped her arms around this man, hugging him, a man that once was that small boy she doted after hand and foot. Her heart weep for him, she wanted that little boy back again, but she knew that was impossible. ” Ok, enough of that.” Let’s go eat, or your father will be upset with both of us.” Sanem stroked his cheek, giving him her blessing with her eyes.

” There you two are, I was starting to come look for you, dinner is getting cold.” Can glanced at the pair, seeing they had needed that few minutes alone, just to reconcile with his decision. Efe patted his Dad on the back, ” I’m sure glad that Kadir has your talent for cooking, or we may starve on this trip.” He laughed, winking at his brother. He could see his son was in a struggle, but he knew he would figure it out, ” So what time are you planning on shoving off in the morning.” He asked, trying to lighten the mood. Efe looked at Kadir, ” I think early, before the sunrise. I would love to watch the sun come up from the boat. What do you think little brother.” Kadir shook his head, ” Sounds good to me, we have sunrise about 6:10, so we need to be leaving out by 5:00am. Is that ok.” They all agreed on the time, then finished their dinner in almost total silence. The two boys decided to stay on the boat overnight, just to get accustomed to the feel of it, and to that feeling of being alone. 

It was 4:00 when Can looked at his watch, only 35 minutes later than the last time he looked. He was more nervous than the boys were, he knew, but this was a big step for them. He knew now how his father must have felt when he took off on his own, traipsing around the world, chasing his dreams. He had been just as adamant about it as these two had been, maybe even more, but he faith in them both, he knew they could do this. He decided to get dressed and walk down to the boat to see if they needed any help. His would be the last time he would see them for a while. The feeling hit hard in his heart, but he wouldn’t let them see it. He walked toward the boat, seeing the lights on, he knew they were preparing to shove off soon, ” Hey there, Captain Efe, can I come aboard.” He yelled, waving his arms to signal them. They laughed, ” Oh Dad, come on, we may need your help.” The two boys motioned him to board. He enveloped the two boys into his arms, holding onto them longer than they had expected, but welcoming it with happiness. He had been and always would be their idol, their hero, the person they strived to be like. 

They all three sat on the bow of the boat, not looking at each other. ” Look guys, I know you can handle anything that comes your way, but if you feel overwhelmed or unsure, please don’t hesitate to go ashore. The worst thing you can do is wait too long to get help.” At that moment he looked directly into their eyes, showing them, he was serious. They held that look with their eyes, knowing he was giving them the best advice he knew. ” Don’t be foolish, that’s all I’m saying.” He slapped his hands together. ” Ok, so what’s left to do, are the water containers filled, that the most important thing. He jumped in helping them get everything in order. Within minutes the boat and the boys were ready to shove off, but not until their mother would make her way down to the dock to see them off. Sanem had been standing some distance away watching her husband and her sons have this moment in time. She knew it was necessary, so she didn’t intrude. She slowly walked down the dock to the boat, waiting for them to leave. Can saw her and motioned her aboard, but she declined, so he stepped out of the boat to join her. She looked at both her sons with a deep love in her eyes, ” You must call when go ashore, I will be very upset with you if you don’t, I will expect it at least once a week. Take care of each other and no fighting.” Her words came out with a trembling voice. Can hugged her up close to him as the boys untied and the boat slowly moved away from the dock.

The tears streamed down her face, as she watched the boat become smaller and smaller against the massive sea of darkness.

She couldn’t move away from the dock……….she looked at Can and could see the same in his eyes. They watched until their image disappeared….

Her heart ached. “That damn boat”…….she thought.

Chapter 5

The darkness of the sea could be quite ominous, as the boat slide quietly through the water. The stars were the only light to guide them. Efe had taken the wheel while Kadir was studying the map, as they veered out into the Alboran Sea. They had been this way before with their Dad on the many outing they had gone on, but all seemed so different this time. The butterflies in their stomachs were in full flight as the dawn of their first day at sea became visible. A rich orange glow rose from the dark black water, signaling the start of the day. They had let the breeze carry them, with the sails opened wide and full, the flapping of the cloth was the only sound they could hear. They both stood watching as that glow grew, striping the blue grey sky with streaks of red and orange. Efe’s heart was beating so hard he could barely stand, and Kadir was literally holding his breath, as they witnessed the magnificence of it. “Their journey had begun. They were doing it…. they were really doing it….

The wind was stiff, making the boat travel at a steady speed. Kadir checked his watch, it had been 2 hours and 15 minutes since they pulled away from the dock and the sun was well above the horizon, filtering through the first layer of grey clouds. There had been minimal words spoken between the two, as they were both in awe of their surroundings. With Efe the first to break the silence, ” Abi, is it just me, or does the sun look like streaks of fire coming through the clouds. I’ve never noticed it that much before.” He tilted his head to the side to watch the rich amber streams of light bounce along on the water. ” Hmmm, it does.” Kadir had moved to the bow of the boat to look over the canopy. Was it nerves or contentment that had them silenced, but neither of them offered much of a conversation, as they let their eyes search what lay before them. The land was still visible, but nothing they could make out clearly, as they watched it grow more distant. The boat was now their home for a while, the realization of it was just beginning to hit.

” Hey Abi, how about some food, my stomach is telling me it’s time.” The oldest Divit son ordered his little brother, slapping him on the back. Kadir smiled, ” Sure thing Captain, how does cereal and fruit sound.” And I can brew some tea.” He started below to the galley but glanced back at his brother. He was glad he agreed to go on this adventure, he admired his brother more than anyone would ever know, in fact, almost as much as his father. He gathered up the cereal, the bowls, and the fruit, taking them to the deck then going back for the tea. They sat down at the table to eat, letting the boat drift along on its own. The misty sea air had intensified their appetite, as they had devoured almost a whole box of cereal. ” Hey, you better be careful, you’re going to eat everything in one day.” Kadir lectured Efe, jerking the box from his hand. Efe smiled, patting his full stomach, ” Well, that was pretty good kid, even if it was just cereal. And the teas not bad either.” He reached across the table ruffling up his brother hair. Kadir slapped his hand away, he hated when he did that, he always made fun of him for keeping his hair cut short. “Well, maybe your hair will get as long as mine while we’re gone, huh.” He laughed, giving him a wink. He returned to the wheel, letting his brother clear the table. He yelled below, “Hey, you make a pretty good first mate, I don’t care what anybody says.” Kadir smirked, mumbling to himself, ” This is gonna be a long trip.” He smiled slightly, “But I wouldn’t have missed it for the world”….

The good steady wind had taken them further than they had expected, and by late afternoon the rocking and swaying of the boat had them both lulled into a comatose state. Efe decided it was time to rest, lowering the sails and dropping anchor, he stretched out on the bow of the boat to take a nap, ” Wake me when you have dinner ready, I think we’ll anchor here for a while.” Kadir shot him a look, he stretched, and yawned, “So this was going to be his duty.” He thought, as he stumbled below to make the sandwiches. If he was doing the food every time, then it was going to be simple. He piled the meat and cheese, along with the vegetables, high on the bread, he was starving once again, and they had plenty of this stuff, so he didn’t go sparingly. A couple a sandwiches each and bottled water, and they would be set for the night. “Efe….Abi wake up.” He yelled at his brother, as he set the food on the table, but not seeing any movement, he ran his hand down the bottled water, collecting all the condensation from it, and flipped it on his brother, bringing him around. ” Your dinner is served, Captain.” He joked, bowing to him. 

The sunset had been just as spectacular as the sunrise, hosting an array of colors as the sun dipped and then finally sank down into the dark blue water. The watched the whole scenario, mesmerized by it, wondering if they had ever seen anything like it before. The quietness of the sea, filled the air, with just the occasional sound of a seagull flying overhead. ” Are we staying here tonight, I mean, we might as well. This place is just as good as any.” Kadir gestured, looking around at the stars and the water. His brother was lying flat on his back on the bow of the boat, arms folded under his head, ” Yes, I think we will, we don’t have any place else to be, and your right, this place is as good as any.” They laid there in silence, listening only to their thoughts, and wondering how their Dad how managed this all alone, so many years ago. They had heard the stories a hundred times, but never felt their impact until now. He had told them he survived only by the memory of their mother, and the hope that they would find each other again. The thought of Paola entered Efe’s mind, and the last time they met. He hated they had parted on such bad terms but allowing her to hope for something that just wasn’t there, was even more cruel. He wanted the love like his parents had, a “this is my destiny” type of love, not a lust type of love. Maybe he would find it on this journey, or maybe not, but he would not settle for less…

The two brothers slept hard; their bodies tired from the pure adrenaline that had been present with the first day a sea. Efe woke first, hearing the wind howling, blowing with a force much harder than the night before. The sails were down, but the loose material was flapping violently in the hard wind.  He yelled at his brother, ” Kadir, wake up.” He yelled, grabbing the wheel that was twisting back and forth. ” Hey, I need your help, check the coordinates and see how far off course we are.” The two worked feverishly to get the boat under control, and the sails raised. They had only traveled a few miles from their course so the recovery would only take short time, but they had learned a valuable lesson…….

“Mother Nature is always in charge”…….

This day had started fast and hard……just as many would, on this adventurous journey of their manhood……

Chapter 6

They had charted their route to run along the coastline of Spain, staying within the guidelines of coastal cruising, at least for the first few days. They had calculated that they were somewhere close to Almeria by mid-afternoon of the second day. The wind was keeping them at a steady speed, allowing them to save their fuel. The shore was nothing more than a thin line on the horizon, providing them their landmark. They were heading to Ibiza island first. It was a small island belonging to the Balearic Islands, off the coast of Spain. It would take the best part of a week to get there, and by then they would both be ready to spend some time ashore, if even for a day. The rumor was, this island was the party capital of all islands, with that being the main attraction. 

Kadir had settled for a book and was reading, while Efe was manning the wheel, both lost in their own thoughts. With the silence finally becoming too much, Efe started belting out a song, totally of key, startling Kadir. ” What the hell is that, is that supposed to be a song.” Kadir laughed, swinging his legs around off the seat. Efe kept singing, getting louder and louder, motioning for his brother to join in, which he did. Efe laughed, clapping his hands together, ” This is supposed to be a fun experience, you know, laughing and joking, you do know what fun is, don’t you.” The older brother teased. Kadir frowned, ” Yes, I know what fun is, but your definition of fun may be different than my fun.” He picked up the book, shaking it toward his brother. Efe rolled his eyes, ” No….don’t tell me you think reading is fun. Reading is a pastime, just something to get you from one point of fun to the other. It’s a Pastime”…….But fun is something you don’t want to end, something that makes you feel good, happy.” He spun around like he was trying to dance. Kadir laughed, “So where are we going to have this fun at. Right now, I think your pretty funny, so I’m having fun.” Efe bowed, thanking him for the compliment.

That had lightened the mood, and to stop Efe’s so-called singing, Kadir found the radio and turned it on their favorite music, turning it up loud. Efe had instructed Kadir he wanted a hot meal that evening, so they anchored and dropped sail about an hour before nightfall. Kadir was busy in the galley with dinner, and Efe was making a routine check on the mechanics of the boat. Pasta and salad were on the menu for the night, and it smelled delicious, ” Hey, I’m starving up her Abi, is it about ready.” He called down to Kadir. “Yep, I’m coming up with it now.” He answered. The plates were heaped with pasta and meat sauce, and he had a large bowl of salad. Efe rubbed his hands together, ” Now that’s a dinner, thanks Abi. I’m glad you learned all of this from Dad.” They attacked the food with a vengeance, making short order of the food. And much to Kadir’s surprise his brother helped him clean up the galley afterwards. Kadir had relaxed up on the deck of the boat, enjoying the crisp sea air, and the rocking motion from the wind. Efe appeared from the bunk area carrying a bottle of whiskey and two glasses, his Dads favorite. He had the same taste for whiskey as his Dad, but he might have enjoyed it a little more than him. Kadir shook his head, “You brought booze, I can’t believe it.” You’re supposed to keep a clear head out here, not a drunken head.” Efe poured them a shot, ” Here, have a shot, it will mellow you out.” He took the small glass of whiskey, threw his head back, and downed the shot. Looking at his little brother, ” Come on Kadir, just one, it’s no fun to drink alone.” 

Efe sat cross-legged on the front of the boat, the stars looked so close he could almost reach out and touch them. This was the life, he thought, with nothing but the sound of his own breathing to keep him company. His brother had been lulled to sleep from the few shots of whiskey he had forced to take. He laughed as he looked at him sprawled out on his stomach across the deck bench. Such a lightweight his brother was when it came to drinking, and so naive of the way of the world. He had a lot to teach him and show him. “Maybe when we get to Ibiza, we can have some real fun.” He snickered thinking to himself, ” I bet he’s still a virgin.” The thought had made him laugh, “Well, we’ll have to fix that, if that’s the case.” Efe had never been denied that pleasure and took full advantage of it. His strikingly handsome looks and tall scupltured physique had been the calling card for a lot of women. He could have had his pick, and he did. He loved women, and respected them, but never promising more than what he intended. Most of them knew what they were in for when they accepted an invitation from Efe Divit. That’s why the words he spoke to Paola had to be said. 

The sun was already up and beating down in him on the bow of the boat as he opened his eyes, indicating they had slept too long. The breeze was almost nonexistent, so the hot sun had already caused beads of sweat to form on his chest. Kadir was still in the same position he had last seen him in. He squinted against the bright light, willing his body to move, but feeling the soreness in his muscles of sleeping on the hard uneven surface. He sat up, swinging his legs off the side of the deck, tipping over the empty whiskey decanter that was sitting next to him. He didn’t remember finishing off the bottle, but he guessed he did. He stretched, trying to get his body to straighten out  before he tried to stand. He heard Kadir moan, while trying to do the same thing, just that simple motion of sitting was painful. Kadir looked around for his brother, and saw him at the front of the boat, slumped over, with his head down. ” Good morning Abi, are we having fun yet.” His voice full of sarcasm. 

The younger brother had made it to his feet, ” What time is it anyway, I think we slept late by the look of the sun.” Do you want coffee.” His words sounded loud and pierced his head, ” Ahhh, coffee, yes,….that sounds good, but can you be a little quieter, my head is splitting.”  Kadir made his way to the galley, mumbling under his breath, ” He wanted to have fun, I don’t see anything fun about the way I feel.” He said, reaching to turn on the coffee pot. Efe had managed to stand and stretch out the kinks in his body by the time Kadir came back with the coffee, ” Its almost 9:00, we have missed almost half a day of sailing because of your drinking, so we need to get started.” He thrust the cup of coffee at his brother. ” You know Mom would be furious if she knew what we did.” Efe managed a smile, ” But she doesn’t know Abi, and she won’t know. So just relax.” They drank their coffee in silence, with Kadir giving Efe looks of disapproval from time to time. They both opted not to eat then, agreeing it might be better to wait. 

After a cup of strong coffee and a splash of water to the face, Efe was ready to man the wheel and Kadir to a look at the map to make sure they were on the right course. 

He watched his big brother take over and maneuver the big vessel with precision and strength.

” No matter what, he had the upmost respect and dedication for his brother.”

” If only I could be like him”   He thought.

They had charted their route to run along the coastline of Spain, staying within the guidelines of coastal cruising, at least for the first few days. They had calculated that they were somewhere close to Almeria by mid-afternoon of the second day. The wind was keeping them at a steady speed, allowing them to save their fuel. The shore was nothing more than a thin line on the horizon, providing them their landmark. They were heading to Ibiza island first. It was a small island belonging to the Balearic Islands, off the coast of Spain. It would take the best part of a week to get there, and by then they would both be ready to spend some time ashore, if even for a day. The rumor was, this island was the party capital of all islands, with that being the main attraction. 

Kadir had settled for a book and was reading, while Efe was manning the wheel, both lost in their own thoughts. With the silence finally becoming too much, Efe started belting out a song, totally of key, startling Kadir. ” What the hell is that, is that supposed to be a song.” Kadir laughed, swinging his legs around off the seat. Efe kept singing, getting louder and louder, motioning for his brother to join in, which he did. Efe laughed, clapping his hands together, ” This is supposed to be a fun experience, you know, laughing and joking, you do know what fun is, don’t you.” The older brother teased. Kadir frowned, ” Yes, I know what fun is, but your definition of fun may be different than my fun.” He picked up the book, shaking it toward his brother. Efe rolled his eyes, ” No….don’t tell me you think reading is fun. Reading is a pastime, just something to get you from one point of fun to the other. It’s a Pastime”…….But fun is something you don’t want to end, something that makes you feel good, happy.” He spun around like he was trying to dance. Kadir laughed, “So where are we going to have this fun at. Right now, I think your pretty funny, so I’m having fun.” Efe bowed, thanking him for the compliment.

That had lightened the mood, and to stop Efe’s so-called singing, Kadir found the radio and turned it on their favorite music, turning it up loud. Efe had instructed Kadir he wanted a hot meal that evening, so they anchored and dropped sail about an hour before nightfall. Kadir was busy in the galley with dinner, and Efe was making a routine check on the mechanics of the boat. Pasta and salad were on the menu for the night, and it smelled delicious, ” Hey, I’m starving up her Abi, is it about ready.” He called down to Kadir. “Yep, I’m coming up with it now.” He answered. The plates were heaped with pasta and meat sauce, and he had a large bowl of salad. Efe rubbed his hands together, ” Now that’s a dinner, thanks Abi. I’m glad you learned all of this from Dad.” They attacked the food with a vengeance, making short order of the food. And much to Kadir’s surprise his brother helped him clean up the galley afterwards. Kadir had relaxed up on the deck of the boat, enjoying the crisp sea air, and the rocking motion from the wind. Efe appeared from the bunk area carrying a bottle of whiskey and two glasses, his Dads favorite. He had the same taste for whiskey as his Dad, but he might have enjoyed it a little more than him. Kadir shook his head, “You brought booze, I can’t believe it.” You’re supposed to keep a clear head out here, not a drunken head.” Efe poured them a shot, ” Here, have a shot, it will mellow you out.” He took the small glass of whiskey, threw his head back, and downed the shot. Looking at his little brother, ” Come on Kadir, just one, it’s no fun to drink alone.” 

Efe sat cross-legged on the front of the boat, the stars looked so close he could almost reach out and touch them. This was the life, he thought, with nothing but the sound of his own breathing to keep him company. His brother had been lulled to sleep from the few shots of whiskey he had forced to take. He laughed as he looked at him sprawled out on his stomach across the deck bench. Such a lightweight his brother was when it came to drinking, and so naive of the way of the world. He had a lot to teach him and show him. “Maybe when we get to Ibiza, we can have some real fun.” He snickered thinking to himself, ” I bet he’s still a virgin.” The thought had made him laugh, “Well, we’ll have to fix that, if that’s the case.” Efe had never been denied that pleasure and took full advantage of it. His strikingly handsome looks and tall scupltured physique had been the calling card for a lot of women. He could have had his pick, and he did. He loved women, and respected them, but never promising more than what he intended. Most of them knew what they were in for when they accepted an invitation from Efe Divit. That’s why the words he spoke to Paola had to be said. 

The sun was already up and beating down in him on the bow of the boat as he opened his eyes, indicating they had slept too long. The breeze was almost nonexistent, so the hot sun had already caused beads of sweat to form on his chest. Kadir was still in the same position he had last seen him in. He squinted against the bright light, willing his body to move, but feeling the soreness in his muscles of sleeping on the hard uneven surface. He sat up, swinging his legs off the side of the deck, tipping over the empty whiskey decanter that was sitting next to him. He didn’t remember finishing off the bottle, but he guessed he did. He stretched, trying to get his body to straighten out  before he tried to stand. He heard Kadir moan, while trying to do the same thing, just that simple motion of sitting was painful. Kadir looked around for his brother, and saw him at the front of the boat, slumped over, with his head down. ” Good morning Abi, are we having fun yet.” His voice full of sarcasm. 

The younger brother had made it to his feet, ” What time is it anyway, I think we slept late by the look of the sun.” Do you want coffee.” His words sounded loud and pierced his head, ” Ahhh, coffee, yes,….that sounds good, but can you be a little quieter, my head is splitting.”  Kadir made his way to the galley, mumbling under his breath, ” He wanted to have fun, I don’t see anything fun about the way I feel.” He said, reaching to turn on the coffee pot. Efe had managed to stand and stretch out the kinks in his body by the time Kadir came back with the coffee, ” Its almost 9:00, we have missed almost half a day of sailing because of your drinking, so we need to get started.” He thrust the cup of coffee at his brother. ” You know Mom would be furious if she knew what we did.” Efe managed a smile, ” But she doesn’t know Abi, and she won’t know. So just relax.” They drank their coffee in silence, with Kadir giving Efe looks of disapproval from time to time. They both opted not to eat then, agreeing it might be better to wait. 

After a cup of strong coffee and a splash of water to the face, Efe was ready to man the wheel and Kadir to a look at the map to make sure they were on the right course. 

He watched his big brother take over and maneuver the big vessel with precision and strength.

” No matter what, he had the upmost respect and dedication for his brother.”

” If only I could be like him”   He thought.

Chapter 7

They were starting the third day at sea a little rough, but surely the effects of the night before would wear off soon. With the sails down and the motor running, they cruised along at a good clip, and Efe could see they were nearing Cartagena. He wondered if they should make a stop there at the port for the night. He yelled for Kadir, who had gone below to make their dinner, “Abi, check the water supply and the food, and see if we need to make a stop at Cartagena.” Kadir did as he asked, relaying that they had used one full container of water, and they could probably use some more drinking water. “Ok, we should stop there for the night, fill all the containers with fresh water and get some bottled water. After we leave there, we will hit the open sea heading to Ibiza, and that will be, at least a two day sail. 

The sun was fading fast as their boat idled into the channel, just a way from the dock. The pier was busy with people, and the sound of loud music drifted out from the bars that lined the wharf, and the smell of food from the vendors that were set up outside made both of their mouths water. Kadir was glad he had decided to stop, maybe they could buy dinner this time and save the food they had onboard. They pick an empty slip to dock the boat, and for it secured to the pier. Since they had been in the same clothes for three days, they opted to take a quick shower and change, before making their way to the restaurant. Efe was looking at one of the many bars and clubs along the wharf, dinner and a drink sounded pretty good. Kadir wanted to go to the small outdoor cafe that was right in front of the pier, so they decided to go their separate ways and then meet back at the boat in a couple of hours. 

Kadir had finished his dinner and even had dessert, filled the empty water container and went to the market that was a few blocks away, and bought water and a few more food items. He got everything arranged on the boat, but still no Efe. He stretched out on the deck bench to wait for him, knowing it would probably be a long wait. The busyness of the pier slowly began to disappear, the restaurants were shutting off their lights, and locking the doors, but still no Efe. With the wharf almost completely silent and empty, Kadir knew his brother probably wouldn’t return until the morning. He shook his head, ” Typical Efe, he could always find someone to spend his time with.” Even this far away from home.” He got comfortable on the long bench, listening to the water lap up against the side of the boat, his eyes were heavy, and hard to keep open. 

The sound of a woman laughing woke him up, he sat up, looking down the long pier he saw his brother and a woman walking toward the boat. ” Oh, hell no, he’s not bringing her onboard to spend the rest of the night.” He thought, but they stopped a short distance from the boat. He could see they were saying their goodbyes to each other, in the most conspicuous way, so he turned away to give them privacy. This was his brother, always able to find a way to have a good time. He just attracted women like bees to a flower, he was amazed by it, but he wasn’t sure if he was impressed by it. The parting lasted for a few minutes, then the woman turned and walked away, and Efe started toward the boat, hands in his pockets. By the time he was onboard, Kadir was up waiting for him, ” So what happened to you, where did you go.” The younger brother asked. Efe smiled and plopped down on the other deck bench, ” Well, I got an invitation I couldn’t refuse little brother, so I didn’t.” Kadir smirked, ” Is this the way it’s going to be the entire trip, you’re off having a good time with the women and I’m doing all the work.” Efe slid down, getting comfortable with his arms stretched out above his head, sighing heavily, ” Ok, sure, that sounds good to me.” He mumbled as he drifted of to sleep. 

Kadir watched him for a bit, thinking, ” If I had just half the confidence, the arrogance, the electricity he had, I might have a whole different life.”  He envied him in a way, he had always wanted to be just like him, maybe this trip would do him some good. Maybe a little of Efe Divit would rub off on him. The night was cut short when a hard rain moved in, drenching them as they slept on the deck. Both ran for cover below, as the storm intensified. They changed and retired to their bed in the cabins, finishing out the night there. By morning the storm had moved on to the south of them, but the winds that followed kept them docked for a couple of hours. The weather was something neither of them wanted to gamble with. After checking the weather conditions from there to Ibiza Island, they decided to head out. 

Moving out from the port and into the channel that would lead them out into the Mediterranean Sea, it was quite visible that the wind had turned the sea into a churning pot, with the waves rising and falling violently. The caps of white foam exploding into the water and lapping over into their boat. This was the first of many challenges that Efe would meet on this journey, he knew they were in a difficult situation and he would need all the skills his Dad had taught him to bring them through it. Kadir helped by keeping his eyes on the navigation panel, with the boat being tossed about almost like a toy, the possibility of them losing their course was more than evident. The thought of turning back to Cartagena was tempting, but they had already fought their way through these waves for over an hour and Efe hoped they would see their way out of it soon.

Kadir knew his brother would do everything possible to keep the boat intact and them safe, but that didn’t keep him from wishing his dad was there to navigate them to a calmer sea. The look of intimidation was written all over Efe’s face, so to keep the faith alive in him was going to be his job. ” Abi, you’ve got this, I think the winds are starting to die down some. You’re doing a great job of keeping us on course.” The younger brother yelled to him. The wind and crashing waves making it almost impossible to hear each other. Efe smiled broadly giving his little brother a thumbs up, but that feeling of failing this test was sitting heavy in his gut. He heard his Dads voice loud and clear In his head as he fought the wheel, ” Never panic son, panic is the first sign of failure, and failure is a sign of weakness, we Divits are not weak”…….

His heartbeat fast as he braced himself against the side of the boat, griping the wheel with a determination of will. 

He wasn’t weak, never had been, and never would be…….

There was the blood of Can Divit that ran through him……..failure was not an option.

Chapter 8

They both were battered and worn, with every inch of their bodies throbbing in pain, but they had fought their way through that storm. It had released them as quickly as it had grabbed them, with the clouds disappearing and the sun kissing the waters, making it sparkle as if nothing had happened. Efe slumped over on the wheel of the boat, his chest heaving, as he tried to catch his breath, ” Kadir, are you ok, are we on course?” His voice was weak and strained. Kadir was struggling to keep his voice from trembling, ” I’m good, but the best I can tell we are off about 6 nautical miles, are you ok?” Stretching across to touch his brother on the shoulder. Efe closed his eyes, he took a deep breath, ” I’m not really sure yet, my whole body is numb. Let me rest a bit and we’ll get back on course.” He laid back on the bow of the boat, with his arms crossed over his head.  

They drifted along for about 30 minutes, as Kadir tried to keep them on a steady course. Efe had made a trip to the head and grabbed a bottled water, looking around he said, ” Ok, give me the coordinates and let’s get the hell out of here. I’m ready to get to Ibiza.” Within minutes Kadir had the direction and speed workout and they were on their way. Efe had been strangely silent for quite some time, so Kadir made sandwiches and fruit and brought to him. ” Here Abi, you need to eat something….and by the way, you did a hell of a job through that, Dad would be proud.” Efe smiled, ” Thanks.” Ruffling up his brothers hair, ” You never know when it’s your time, but I guess it wasn’t this time.” Kadir shook his head, ” You’re right, I guess that’s why you live your life like you do, like you might not get another chance.” I get it…  

All this time, all that was going through his head was, what if something had happened to Kadir, what if he hadn’t been able to keep their boat together, what if he would have been the reason……well he didn’t even want to think about it. ” Hey kid, take over for a minute while I go to the head, will you.” He stuttered, tying to keep it together until he made it below. After a few minutes of a harsh conversation with himself, he made his way back to the deck and took over the wheel, ” Well I think we will travel for a while tonight, just to make up some time, the faster we get to the Islands the better. I’m sure there’s some party’s going on there, and I don’t want to miss them.” He winked at his brother, hoping to get him to loosen up some when they got there. 

The night had slipped in around them like a warm blanket, the wind had all but disappeared, forcing them to fire up the motor. They watched the stars as they flashed about, like a thousand lightning bugs in the sky, nothing was more peaceful than that. They had made up the distance that they had been blown off course and had their sights set on Ibiza Island, slicing through the water a pretty good clip. Kadir had fell asleep stretched out on the bow of the boat, but Efe was wide awake, still feeling the adrenaline pumping through his body. His mind wandering off, thinking about home, his mom and dad, the safety he always felt when they here around. He was glad he didn’t come on this trip alone; he really didn’t think he would have made it. He had stared down the length of this boat for hours now, his eyes straining to see through the darkness. They felt like they had grains of sand embedded in them, he glanced at the time, 3:15 it said, he didn’t know if he could continue much longer. He reached down pulling back on the throttle and switching over to auxiliary power to run the lights, he just needed an hour or two to rest his eyes. He dropped the anchor and flopped down on the deck bench, giving way to a sleep that he needed so badly.

Kadir woke up with a jerk, his mind reliving the nightmare they had gone through the day before. The sun was just spreading is colors out across the water, as he looked around for his brother. He saw him there on the bench, asleep, but twitching about and mumbling something that he didn’t understand. He rubbed his face hard with his hands, trying to clear his head. He headed for the galley to make a cup of coffee, a strong cup, he had a feeling he was going to need it. After he washed his face with cold water to wake himself up, he grabbed his coffee and took his place behind the wheel. He checked the coordinates to make sure they were still on their course, started up the engine and headed to Ibiza Island. He watched his brother sleep, he knew the storm was still on his mind, it had unsettled him more than he let on. He would let him sleep, although he wasn’t quite as good a sailor as Efe, he knew he could get them to Ibiza. That’s the least he could do for his brother, since he had risked his life for him…

The quiet hum of the motor and the warm mist of water that blew up over the side of the boat had made his eye heavy. He searched the horizon ahead for a sign of land, but all he could see was an endless view of water, or was it sky, at this point it was hard to tell. Looking at the map he was convinced they were getting close to the island, he hoped he hadn’t taken them off course. His brother had slept for hours, and Kadir was beginning to worry about him, “Efe….Efe, you need to wake up, I might need your help.” He raised his head slightly, ” What, Kadir where are we.” He looked around as in a daze, ” Why didn’t you wake me, what time is it.” Kadir smiled, “It’s almost party time Abi, we should be getting close to the island.” Efe sat up on the bench, stretching his back and arms to release the knotted-up muscles, “So how far out are we, do you know.” He asked, placing the map on the table to have a look at. ” I think maybe another hour, and we should be there. Is that what you see.” He questioned Efe. 

Efe studied the map for a minute, ” You did good kid, we are right on course, should be seeing the port within an hour.” He smiled at his younger brother, ” Thanks for taking over, I guess that storm took more out of me than I thought. You did great, now are you ready to party. I think you deserve it don’t you. The thought of a night of partying had Efe excited, he was in desperate need of a distraction from the events of the last days, and was eager to show his brother a good time. 

“Yes, and good bottle of whiskey, and a beautiful, willing woman, and he could put that raging storm behind him”……

But the hardest thing would be to get Kadir to relax and accept a good time… He was determined to make a man out of him on this trip……

Chapter 9

The sky was beginning to turn that shade of blue grey that indicated dusk was upon them. A few stars had popped out, just the brightest ones, and the moon was floating just right on top of the water. In the distance they could see the glow of lights from the port, and the light on top of the lighthouse that guided them in. Kadir had already cleaned up some and changed his clothes, while Efe maneuvered the boat into the dock. The place was busy, it had a reputation as the party hot spot of the Mediterranean and could easily host hundreds of boats and yachts full of people looking for a good time. He docked the boat and they anchored it securely to the pier. Efe took his turn at cleaning himself up and changing. He had his own style of clothing, much like his father, nothing conventional, he liked unique and different. He had a couple of necklaces that were his favorites and they always adorned his neck no matter what. He opted for a t-shirt and shorts since the weather was quite hot and humid, but the shirt had the sleeves ripped out of it and there was a bandana with strips of leather that was braided and entwined with it, that was attached to the neck of the shirt and hung down loosely over his muscled chest. His dark brown hair was long and slightly wavy, so he styled it up in a man bun on top of his head. Kadir was always jealous of the way his brother looked, and the attention he got when he entered a room. He had a more subdued look, a tailored shirt and cargo pants, and he had combed his much shorter hair back away from his face. Although he was just as good looking as his brother, it never came across that the same way. 

” Ok little brother, are you ready to have some fun.” Efe slapped him on the back, eyeing him up and down. “What’s this, you look like you’re going to a funeral, here unbutton a couple of buttons.” He reached over flipping open the top three bottoms of his shirt. He stepped back, tilted his head to one side, still not quite satisfied, he grabbed the shirt and pulled it out from his pants, letting it hang loosely. ” Well, that’s a little better, but you need something for your neck, hey I’ve got a braided rope necklace that would great on you.” He jumped down the stairs to the cabin below, bringing it back and putting it around his neck. ” Now, that helps, ok that’s go have some fun. I’m starved how about you.” He flashed him that Divit smile that only his brother could pull off, and they started off down the pier. They had to walk a couple of blocks away from the pier to get to the Main Street, but they heard it before they saw it. The music was loud, and the sound of people echoed through the streets, as the rounded the corner. It seemed the parties had overflowed into the streets, the clubs and bars were open front, making it look like one huge festival for blocks. They found a cafe that had a empty table and they grabbed it, with them both scanning the street, not believing what they saw. Efe had been a lot of places in Spain, a lot of party hot spots, but nothing like this, it had even taken him by surprise. 

It took a few minutes before a waitress finally showed up, carrying a tray full of dirty glasses, ” Hello gentleman, do you have a drink in mind.” She yelled at them over the noisy crowd. Kadir nodded, ” Yes, I’ll take a bottle of San Miguel, and a water.” The waitress was juggling the tray and her pen and paper, ” Will that be Tradicion or Millenium.” She blurted, trying to write it down. ” Uhh, Tradicion.” Thanks.” He smiled at her but she didn’t taken the time to look up. “And you, what will you have.” Asking Efe, who had been busy scoping out the place to hear her. ” Hey, I’m waiting here, what do you want.” He spun around, ” Oh, sorry, I’ll take a whiskey…. on ice, and a coffee, black.” He glanced at her with a smile. She finished writing and stuck the pen behind her ear, ” Got it, be back with your order, are you eating, or just drinking.” She asked. Kadir answered, ” We’ll take a menu, along with those drinks, thanks.” Her second look at the two men made her blink a couple of times, she stuttered, ” Uhh, yes of course, menus, I’ll bring them right away.” She fidgeted with the tray, glancing from one to the other in a nervous flitter, and then hurried away. Efe hadn’t noticed the sudden actions of the waitress, but Kadir had, thinking it was strange. The music and dancing had Efe watching all the people, engrossed with it all. Within minutes she reappeared, a little bit more aware of who she was serving and sporting a smile. ” A San Miguel for you,” she sat Kadir’s beer in front of him, making direct eye contact with him, ” A Tradicion, correct.” She looked at him for a minute, then giggled and sighed, reaching for the coffee, she turned to Efe, who had glanced at her, giving her that crooked grin and a slight wink of the eye. She hesitated for a split second, mesmerized by his attention, “Your coffee, and whiskey over ice.” She mumbled, blinking her eyes uncontrollably.

Her face was flushed and felt hot, as she fumbled with the menus, ” And your menus, and may I recommend the Garlicky Shrimp Scampi, it’s very good.” She handed them the menus, glancing at each of them. “Do you need a minute, or should I wait.” She stood there in total awe of the two handsome men. Efe was the first to answer, as he leaned over close to her, ” I’ll have that, especially if you recommend it.” His eyes locked with hers for a split second as he handed the menu back in her hand. She swallowed hard, her eyes open wide, but remaining fixed on him, she asked Kadir, ” And for you,” she asked slowly, but not turning his way. Kadir shook his head, ” Ma’am….ma’am, over here, I’ll have the seafood Paella, and another beer.” She smiled at him in embarrassment, ” Is that all for you.” She looked back at Efe, but he had shifted his eyes back out to the street where the crowd was growing larger and louder. She hurried off to put the order in, glancing back over her shoulder as she walked away, to marvel at the fine-looking man that had sat down in her area. Her ho hum night had just turned into a night that had been worth coming to work for. 

Kadir looked at his brother who had been oblivious to the actions of the waitress, ” Well looks like you may get an extra-large helping of that Shrimp Scampi, if the waitress had anything to say about it.” He joked, giving his brother a wink. Efe looked at him, puzzled, ” How so.” He shrugged his shoulders. Kadir laughed, his brother was so use to the attention from the women, he had become immune to it in sense. 

He observed his brother, watched as his demanding personality, his effortless way to command the situation, took over and soon everyone was looking their way.

Certainly all the women had taken notice…..

But that was nothing new for Efe Divit, and nothing less than Kadir had expected………

Chapter 10

The food was delicious, and the service was by far the best, with the waitress attending to their table like they were the only customers in the cafe. It was amazing how Efe was able to command a room, or a cafe in this matter, as handily as that. They both ordered a beer for the road and wandered out of the cafe with every head in the place turned to watch them as they left. They strolled down the street, mingling with the people as they were literally, dancing in the street. ” What a place Abi.” Kadir said, leaning over close to Efe so he could hear above the noise of the crowd. Efe smiled broadly, ” Yes, I agree, this is quite a place.” They found a spot in front of one of the larger bars where they could stop and lean up against the wall, just to watch. The clubs and bars all had large sliding glass fronts, that were open, allowing the people to move from inside to out at will. It was much like the festivals that they had been to Malaga and Madrid, when they visited there.

They had grabbed another drink from a waiter as he passed by and started on down the street. They had a lot more to see, as this outdoor party continued for a few more blocks. A young woman all of sudden appeared in front of them, ” Hi, come on, come with me, we’re going to dance.” She took his hand, laughing and dancing around as she pulled him out into the street. Efe glanced back at Kadir, smiling the irresistible Divit smile, shrugged his shoulders, and followed her more than willingly. He stepped back, trying to camouflage himself against the exterior of the building. He kept an eye on his brother as he danced with the woman, then with another, then another. They surrounded him, like bees to honey, with his brother soaking it all in. He was definitely a magnet to women, and he knew how to handle it. He stood a head taller than most of the men out there, and his looks set him apart from all the rest. He had instantly become the center of attraction, like always, the one that women flocked to. Kadir observed as he took it all in stride, letting himself go, just going with it. He seemed to be in his element, this was Efe Divit, having fun. 

It was getting late and Efe didn’t show any signs of calling it a night, as he had become quite cozy with a beautiful brunette woman. She had eliminated all the competition, singling out Efe for her own, as they danced closely together. Kadir had stayed back in the shadows, not willing to be fawned over, or to be pulled out in the middle of all the chaos, like his brother. He wanted to head back to the boat, but getting Efe attention was going to be hard, so he waited. It seemed like hours, when his brother finally started his way, “Kadir, listen we’re heading to her room.” He told him, nodding toward the woman that was draped on his arm, giving him a wink. She smiled at him, but Kadir looked away, ” Efe, you don’t even know her.” He whispered to him. He grabbed him by the arm and pulled him close to him, ” But….you can be sure I will.” Just grab you one of these beautiful women and get to know them.” He slapped him on the shoulder, “See you later Abi.” And he disappeared down the crowded street with the woman. Kadir looked around, a bit intimidated with it all, and started off the other way toward the boat. 

It was after midnight by the time he made it back to the boat, tired from the events of the last couple of days. He poured a shot of whiskey, thinking he might drink it, but all he did was sit and stare at it. Kadir wondered what made him so different from his brother, why were they like night and day. He so wanted to be that charismatic, overconfident, fun loving man that all the women were drawn to. At 21 years old, he had only had one girlfriend, and that ended at the end of his senior year of high school, when her family moved away. It wasn’t that he was shy or uncomfortable around woman, he just had standards and didn’t want to fall into bed with just anyone, he needed a connection. He wanted it to mean something, to make his heart happy, not just those animalistic feeling that most guys had. In a quick impulse he grabbed the glass and threw his head back, letting the whiskey escape down his throat, feeling it burn as he swallowed it down. He scrunched up his face, and slammed the glass down on the table, ” Just once Kadir Divit, just once why can’t you just let go and not think about it.” He yelled at himself. He laid over on the deck bench, and within minutes he was asleep. 

Efe woke up, confused at first, as to where he was. The few drinks he had before, had made his head foggy. He glanced around the room, and then saw the naked woman sleeping next to him, bringing back the memory. “Ahhh, yes, Lucia….I think that is her name.” He rubbed his face, swinging his legs off the bed and grabbing his clothes, and started out of the room. He quickly dressed in the hallway, checking his watch to see that it was already early morning. He didn’t normally duck out on a woman like that, but he needed to get to the boat and check on Kadir. The sky was still dark, as he maneuvered his way to the pier, and it looked like some clouds had moved in, he hoped the weather didn’t turn bad, forcing them to stay there longer than they had planned. The street was empty and quiet now, quite a change from the night before, making him smile at the thought of it. He felt bad for Kadir, that he hadn’t put himself out there, there was plenty of opportunity if he had just given it a chance.

Efe smiled, looking at this younger brother sprawled out on the bench. An empty whiskey glass on the table made him smile even more, ” Well looks like he had a nightcap, that’s an improvement. But it looks like he had it alone. He took his foot and nudged his brother, “Hey punk wake up, I see your stealing my whiskey when I’m not around.” Kadir moaned and opened his eyes slightly, ” Damn, what time is it.” He squinted his eyes, trying to see his watch, “5:00, go back to bed, it’s still nighttime.” He rolled over, ignoring his brother. He plopped down on the bench on the other side of the boat, ” So did you have that drink alone last night or did someone join you.” He asked, with a bit of teasing in his voice. Kadir looked around, “Alone…why do you ask.” His brother shrugged his shoulders, “Just asking, but there was plenty to choose from there, and you did have the boat to yourself.”  Kadir looked at Efe, ” Maybe, just maybe there should be more to being with a woman than the obvious. I want something special, a lightning bolt feeling I guess….do you ever get that…did you get that with Paola.”

Efe was silent for a while, thinking about it. ” No, I didn’t, that’s why I broke it off with her.” Kadir was shocked, ” But Abi, you were with her for a long time, and you never had that feeling.” 

Efe smiled, ” I guess we’re both looking for that life changing moment, you want a lightning bolt, and want to have that out of body experience.” 

“Look at us, the Divit brothers, searching for our destiny…….how far will we have to travel to find it.”   

Chapter 11

Kadir knew the conversation about relationships and feelings was pointless with Efe, so he went below to make their breakfast. Efe sat up top alone thinking about the talk, he wasn’t sure if he had a lot to learn or if it was his kid brother that needed that lesson in the affairs of the heart. Sometimes he thought Kadir had it all figured out, determined to wait for the bolt of electricity to strike, while he was happy testing the waters of every possible candidate. He winched at that realization, had he just thought that….his mind mulling that thought over for a minute, did he really consider women as a game, a game to score the most points. That stuck in his throat a bit, as he tried to swallow it down. He shook his head, ” No,.I have the deepest respect for women, I haven’t been neglectful or superficial with them, each of them knew from the start that it was just for fun.” His mind was talking to him, trying to convince him.  There it was…. his motto, the reasoning he applied to everything….“It’s just for fun”

Kadir came up with a plate of crepes, and fresh brewed tea. He had the talent of making the best crepes around, as far as his brother was concerned. He followed with a plate of fresh fruit and vegetables. The table was set, and it looked like it may have come from one of the quaint cafes in the town center. Efe dove in, his appetite was always in full mode after a hard night of partying. After they had all but wiped the plates clean, Efe leaned back, his arms open wide, ” Fantastic little brother, you’re going to make a great husband one day.” He gave him the one-sided smile that came from their Dad, and a wink. Kadir nodded to him, accepting the compliment, “Well that’s more than I can say about you.” Your wife would wither away from starvation if the cooking was left to you.” He told him, giving him a look of defiance. Efe laughed a loud and boisterous laugh, ” Ahhh little brother, food would be the last thing on “my wife’s ” mind, I can assure you of that. He leaned across, giving him a solid slap on the shoulder. Kadir let the confrontation drop, knowing Efe would always win when it came to the satisfaction of a woman. 

Efe helped him clear the table, then he went on about checking the mechanics of the boat, that was his specialty. He inspected the sails, the mast and the rigging wire. He wanted to make sure the storm hadn’t damaged any of the connections. Kadir had made a list of supplies they needed before they headed out to their next port. He changed his clothes, grabbed his camera bag and the list. ” Efe..” he yelled. ” I’m going to the market and then to sightsee a bit, maybe take some pictures.” See ya later.” The older brother waved at him as he departed the boat. He concentrated on making sure the boat was sound and in good working order, then he showered quickly, dressed and headed into town. The place had taken on a whole different vibe from the night before, where there had been a mob of people dancing and drinking, there was now dozens of open markets, full of merchandise. Some originating from the local people and some being from imports. All the fruits and vegetables you could imagine were their available for purchase, picked fresh and beautiful. Families lined the streets, and filled the open cafes, making him think of his home of Malaga. 

Kadir had rented a bike and took off on one of the many biking and hiking trail that wound through the outskirts of town. He stopped often and took some photos of the cliffs and the beaches below. The view was magnificent, it so he had plenty of opportunity to capture numerous phenomenal pictures. Some parts of the trails were treacherous, and maneuvering the bike through it was tricky, and meeting the occasional fellow biker could be dangerous if you weren’t paying attention. Kadir was in awe of the beautiful scenery, it was quite different from home, even the beaches had a were different, as they spread out beneath the towering cliffs. The whole island had been formed by ancient old volcanoes, that had erupted thousands of years ago, leaving this unique and rugged outline on the middle of the sea. He had stopped at the edge of a cliff that overlooked a long sandy beach filled with people. The view of Es Vedra was the best from this point, and he wanted to get a shot of the famous island rock. It sits off from the main island and is one of the main attractions of the island. He was busy trying to capture the uniqueness of it from every angle and wasn’t paying attention to the trail. He stepped back in the path of a biker coming around the trail. They swerved to miss him, as he too jumped back out of the way, but it was too late. The biker ended up on the other side of the trail in a heap, on top of a formation of rocks. He ran over to help, lifting the bike off and pitching it to the side in a panic, ” Don’t move, just lay still for a second.” He was feverishly checking over the person to see if there were any broken bones. She sat up quickly, brushing his hands away from her, ” I’m fine, stop groping me like a pervert, but you need to watch what you’re doing.” Her voice sounding high pitched and angry. Kadir hadn’t even noticed it was a girl, until she spoke, “Miss, I’m so sorry, I was just trying to get a better shot of the rock, I’m…….he stopped, his eyes open wide as she took off her riding helmet. ” I’m what”……She asked as she tossed her head, flipping her long blonde hair away from her face, letting it cascade down her back. She quickly looked at him, “Hey are you ok, you’re not hurt are you.” she asked, her eyes squinting at him. He shook his head, ” No, I’m not hurt,” he stuttered, shifting his eyes away from her to regain his thoughts. “And I’m terribly sorry that I got in your way.” 

She was trying to stand, but the fall had caused her to scrape her knee and her elbow on the rocks. She winced in pain as she tried to stand, “Oh damn, I scraped up my knee, hey give me a hand.” She ordered Kadir, sticking out her hand towards him. He stared at her, with a stupid look on his face, captivated by her. ” Hey, help me up.” She yelled, flinging her hand at him, hitting him on the arm. He jerked, coming slightly to his senses, “Oh, I’m sorry, here let me help you.” He took her hand and gently helped her up to her feet. ” Well, at least I can walk, but I need to get it cleaned up.” She said, hobbling over to get her bike. Kadir quickly took over, after he recovered from the shock of seeing her. ” Let me get that, are you sure you can ride. I can help you get back to town.” He rushed around picking up her bike and helping her on. She smiled, “I’m ok, I’ll just take it slow, but you really should be more careful up here on these trails.” And she pedaled off down the trail. He watched her for a second, seeing she was having a little trouble bending her knee, he decided to follow along with her. 

” Hey, let me come with you….just in case you need help.” He called after her

She looked back, ” Come on then, you’re not going to help me by standing back there.” She smiled a big smile.

He smiled back, jumped on his bike and took off after her.

Chapter 12

Efe mingled around through the streets of the Old Town, enjoying the rich culture that vibrated from there. He picked up some fresh fruit from the farmers market, and even a bought a gift for his Mom at the Hippie Market. He had seen a brightly colored notebook that was covered with flowers. He just knew she would love it, and since she had started writing again, he knew it was something she could use. He stuck it in his backpack along with the fruit from the market and moved on through the town. He had called his Dad before leaving the boat for town, just to check in. He was glad to hear his voice, then more than he thought he would be. He told him about the storm and how they fought their way past it, but he didn’t let him know how much it had scared him. His Mom was happy to hear from him but was disappointed that Kadir wasn’t there to talk to her. He realized after he hung up how much he missed them, and it took him by surprise. They were and always would be the center of his heart, he had such a deep respect for his father and all the disappointments he had been through in life until he met his mother. “That’s what he wanted, someone to fill his life with love…….not leaving any room for disappointment…..

He had walked for what seemed like hours, and wondered if Kadir was back at the boat, wondering where he was, so he turned back toward the Marina. He made one last stop to buy their drinking water and chocolates, it was their favorite dessert. He made is aboard with all the bags, expecting to hear his little brother bombard him with questions about where he had been, but the boat was silent. He called below, thinking maybe he had fallen asleep, but there was no answer. Efe recalled the time his brother had left, it was early in the day, around 9:00am the best he could remember, and it was now after 6:00 in the evening. His mind was beginning to think the worst, and he didn’t want to. Kadir was always the responsible one, always on time, never causing anyone to worry….so where was he. He waited for another hour, managing to fix him a bite to eat without much trouble, and pouring him a drink. He could hear the music from the beach party that was starting up down the way and he could feel the whole vibe of the town start to change as the sun lowered closer to meet the sea. He was starting to get worried, and he didn’t like being worried, especially about his little brother. 

Kadir had watched her as she hobbled about in the kitchen, fixing them a surprise dinner. She refused any help, ordering him to sit in back garden since he was her guest. He had learned a lot about her in just a short time, this beautiful girl name was Nicolette. She was from Marseilla, France and had traveled there on vacation a couple of years before. She told him she loved it so much she never went back home. He was captivated by her, she chattered like a tightly wound doll, but he loved the sound of her voice. She spoke very good English, and so did he, so the conversation didn’t get lost in translation, but he had a hard time keeping up with her quick pace of changing subjects. ” So, you are her from Malaga, what brings here, are you on holiday, did you fly in or come by a cruise boat.” She asked, her questions bubbling out of her. He smiled, ” Well, I came here by boat but not a cruise boat, and yes, you could say I’m on holiday. We are just passing through.” He replied, trying to answer all her questions. But she had more, and wasn’t afraid to ask, “We…..who are you traveling with, where are you going next if you’re just passing through.” She fired off her next round of questions, as she looked at this delightfully handsome man. Before he had a chance to answer she continued, ” Kadir……that’s not a Spanish name, where did you get that name, it sounds exotic.” She let her eyes catch his and hold there for a minute, feeling that slight shiver travel up her spine. Kadir smiled at her, almost like he had known her all his life, and before he knew it, he was telling her everything there was to tell about him and his life.

She listened intently, his voice lulling her into a peaceful state of contentment. Her mind was wandering as he talked, thinking about how almost perfect he was, how kind his voice was and how it soothed her. She was tracing every inch of his face with her eyes as he talked, smiling or nodding occasionally as he explained the reason for him being there. How could a person be so perfect, she wondered, so electrifying, so dynamic. He stopped talking for a minute, ” Nicolette, are you ok….have I bored you to death with my life story. I’m sorry.” He stood embarrassed that he had unloaded almost every detail about himself in such a short time. She jumped, bringing herself back to reality, ” Ohh..of course not, I love hearing about other people’s lives, it’s better than speculating about them, you know, a first-hand account.” She laughed nervously; afraid he might realize what she was daydreaming about. He grabbed his plate and carried it to the kitchen, ” Thank you for the wonderful dinner, it was fabulous, and the conversation. It was better than talking to my brother all evening.” He shifted nervously, desperately wanting to delay his departure. She nodded, ” It was definitely my pleasure Mr.Divit, maybe we will meet again before you shove off. As long as you don’t make me wreck my bike again.” Kadir had never been referred to as Mr. Divit before, especially by such a vibrant and beautiful woman as her, so he was just as surprised as she was when he said, ” How about my boat, in the morning for breakfast, I’m a very good cook.” He smiled that devastating Divit smile, melting away any doubt she had had, ” Sounds like an invitation I wouldn’t want to refuse, so where is your boat and what time is breakfast.” His heart skipped a few beats, making him clear his throat, ” Come to the marina, we are three slips over from the pier, and how about 9:00. And do you like tea or coffee.” His eyes refused to look away from hers, as he heard her say, “Whatever you like.”

Efe was sitting at the stern of the boat, searching both directions of the wharf for his brother. He looked at his watch again, seeing that only 15 minutes had passed since the last time he looked. He sighed and rubbed his forehead with his hand. He had no idea where to start to look for his brother, so he thought it better to just wait there for him. ” When I get my hands on you Kadir, I might just kill you.” He said out loud, breaking the silence of the past four hours. The sun had long buried itself beneath the water, and the moon was visible, surrounded by stars. He was sure his brother had been met with some sort of accident and had agreed with himself to wait 30 more minutes before he started checking the hospitals. His phone was evidently dead, and he didn’t have a way to charge it, or he would have called. All these scenarios were running rampant in his head when he saw a familiar figure walking toward the boat.

The relief of knowing nothing had happened to his brother, and the anger from the fear it had took him over. Kadir boarded the boat, ” Hey Abi, I thought you would be partying by now.” 

The look in his brother’s eyes made him swallow hard….

Chapter 13

Efe was the type of person to dictate or judge, he wanted his brother to have a good time, that’s what this whole trip was about, but there was always a fear that he would let something happen to his kid brother. The responsibility of looking after him had been laid upon him just days before they left home. His mother had made him promise, almost on his life, that he wouldn’t let him meet with an undesirable situation. He wasn’t quite sure what she had meant by an undesirable situation, but she had trusted him to take care of his brother, and he wasn’t about to let her down. 

“Kadir, where have you been, I have tried to call you a hundred times.” He eyed his brother, not wanting him to see the relief he felt. Kadir was a little confused, “Efe, I thought you wanted me to go out and have a good time…isn’t that what you said.” Kadir returned a look of defining, a defining of who he was, or really who he wanted to be. Yes, Efe was 5 years older than him, but he was still 21 years old and not a child anymore. He tilted his head to one side, ” Well, that’s what you said, so that’s what I did, and I guess my phone ran out of charge. That’s why I didn’t hear my phone.” He went below to put his camera away, but Efe followed, ” You didn’t answer the question, where were you.” The demand for the answer was a little stronger, as his voice took on a more offensive sound. ” I was worried, and you want to be flippant about it, that’s really not like you.” Kadir knew he had upset his brother, ” I’m sorry Abi, it just didn’t occur to be to call, I thought you would be out partying somewhere anyway. You didn’t call me last night, and I was worried.” Efe shifted his eyes away, knowing he was right, ” Ok then, new rule….we both have to check in with each other if it’s getting late. Ok, is it a deal.” He looked with relief at his brother, and hugged his neck. He could never stay mad at him…

“Ok, I rented a bike and took my camera and went on a ride along the cliffs, I stopped and took some pictures……..and then I had an accident.” He glanced toward his brother quickly then looked away. ” Well, I caused an accident, I didn’t get hurt. I stepped backwards on the trail in front of another rider and caused then to have a wreck.” His mind reliving that traumatic yet delightful incident. Efe could see the slight smile on his brothers face, ” Kadir, were they hurt badly, did you take them to the hospital. I knew something bad had happened.” He sighed, shaking his head. ” No she was fine, just a scraped knee, but….I did help her home.” Kadir smiled, raised his eyebrows and gave his brother a wink. ” You helped her home…..Efe repeated, ” So that’s where you’ve been all day, at this woman’s house. Kadir, why didn’t you at least call me….I might have been able to give you some pointers.” His face lit up and he slapped his brother on the back. Kadir looked at him, ” Hey, we just talked, and she fixed dinner, we ate…and I came home.” Efe threw his hands up in the air, ” What, you spent the whole day at her house and nothing happened, yep….I need to give you some pointers.” He said, shaking his head. 

Kadir knew he would react like this, that was one reason he hadn’t tried to call him. ” Look, we talked, she told me about herself, I told her about me, it was a nice time. But….she is coming for breakfast in the morning.” He let a smile spread across his face. ” And you will be on your best behavior, please. Don’t embarrass me in front of her.” He pleaded with his brother. Efe agreed, but deep down inside he was hoping he hadn’t expected to much out of this relationship. “Ok I’ll be the model brother, but we’re taking off after breakfast. Kadir felt a stab in his stomach, ” We are, why so soon, I thought you wanted to party here for a while.” He’d hoped to be able to spend more time with Nicolette. Efe glanced at him, ” Well I think we have spent enough time here, and it’s a long way to Sardinia, so after breakfast we’ll shove off.” Kadir always hated it when he took over the role of boss or trying to be like his father. “Well, what if I’m not ready to leave yet, maybe I want to stay another day or two. Why do you make all the plans and decisions, without even asking me.” Kadir spit the words out of his mouth like fire. Efe stopped quickly, ” Look Kadir, you might as well get used to it, on this trip I am the boss, and we will leave tomorrow after breakfast. In a couple of days, we’ll be in Sardinia and you will have forgotten all about this girl.” 

Those words hit him like hard, who did he think he was, telling me my feelings. ” Abi, I’m not like you, without a heart. I don’t just casually and disrespectfully encounter the opposite sex. I’m not a one-night stand type of person, or in our case, a one-hour stand.” The words flew out of his mouth without control, and before he knew it, and he regretted them the minute he said them. But it was too late. Efe hesitated, not even looking around at him, ” Is that what you think, that I disrespect the women that I see. Tell me, what do you think being disrespectful is, I have never been with a woman that did want to be with me, and I have never forced a woman to spend time with me if she preferred not to. Just because we didn’t continue together on a month to month, or day to day or even a minute-to-minute relationship doesn’t mean it didn’t respect who I was with.” His voice strained and low. The thought of Paola entered his mind, he did regret the incident with her, and he did think he disrespected her. But he had been upfront with her from the beginning in the fact he wasn’t looking for a long-term relationship. She was the one that refused to respect that, she insisted on spending time with him, forcing him to lie at times. 

Kadir immediately apologized, ” Efe I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it that way. I know you don’t disrespect woman. It came out wrong.” He stammered around trying to recover from his blunder. His brother nodded his head, as if to accept what he said, and went below to his cabin. Kadir sat alone for a while, thinking about all the stories his Dad had told them about him and his brother Emre. How they hadn’t grown up together, and how it had caused them to be rivals in life. Even though they have since made peace with each other, the road that it took them on almost destroyed them. He didn’t want that for him and Efe, and he was truly sorry for what he had blurted out in anger. He would let him cool off for a while, then try to mend what his hurtful words had harmed. 

If there was anything in life that he was jealous of, it was his brother

The perfectness of him, the confidence he had……

“The last thing I want to do is hurt him” he thought.

Chapter 14

Kadir was up early the next morning, fixing the perfect breakfast. He had left his brother alone the night before, letting him cool off from the words that had been said. He wanted desperately to talk to him before Nicolette arrived, to smooth things over with him.  He was usually an early riser, but this morning he was either sleeping in, or avoiding Kadir and the subject he knew he would want to talk about. Efe could hear him working about in the galley, and he knew he was probably preparing one of his famous breakfasts, so he slowly opened the door to his cabin and looked out. The smell that was swirling around the living quarters of the boat were amazing, and they made him realize how hungry he was. The dinner he had had the night before was a lot less than perfect and hadn’t satisfied him at all. He stepped out and made his way to the galley, “Good morning Abi, everything smells great.” Efe patted him on the back as he walked by and started up the stairs to the deck. ” Efe wait, I need to talk to you, can you give me a minute.” Kadir stood facing him at the bottom of the stairs. ” Sure, what’s on your mind….if it’s about last night, you don’t need to say anything. I know you only said those things because you were upset with me.” He laughed, ” Let’s just say, “It’s water under the boat” ok.” He gently patted his kid brothers cheek, and started on to the deck. 

Kadir smiled slightly, but the encounter still sat heavy in his heart. Efe got busy prepping the boat for their departure, he wanted to be underway by midday. He was ready for some open air, the sea had always calmed his mind, and his heart. The trip to Sardinia would give them time to deal with what had been said, it would probably take a couple of days out on the open water to get there, he was sure all would be behind them by then. Kadir had set an amazing table, if he didn’t know better, he would have thought they were in a fine dining restaurant. ” Wow punk, you have out done yourself with this breakfast, this woman must really do something.” Efe looked around, slapping him on the back. Kadir smiled his dazzling Divit smile, ” I don’t know, but she really quirky and different, she’s funny….and talks a lot.” His face lighting up just talking about her. Efe could tell he was quite smitten with her, and hoped she was as sincere as he was. 

His watch said 9:05, she was late. He strained his eyes to look down the pier, hoping to see her walking that way. Efe felt the pain from his brother, ” Hey you know women, they like to be fashionable late….she’ll be here.” The older brother assured him. He watched the long pier and within minutes he saw her rushing along past the row of other boats. ” There she is, she’s coming Abi, now please be on your good behavior.” He begged with his eyes. Efe nodded, with a concerned look on his face, he didn’t understand why he thought he wouldn’t be. ” You got it kid, don’t worry.” He gave him a wink. Kadir walked down the end of the ladder to help her aboard, ” Hello, did you have trouble finding us.” He asked as he firmly took her hand leading her up the ladder to the deck of the boat. She looked beautiful, her long blonde hair shining in the sunlight. She smiled, ” No, I was still deciding whether to come or not to tell the truth, but I thought you owed me from yesterday.” She said, looking around the boat. She raised her eyebrows when she saw the table, ” So you did all of this, it’s very nice, looks like you are trying impress someone.” She slides in on the bench, taking a spot at the table. Efe came up from below, hesitating a second, as he listened to the conversation, ” No, my brother is quite good at setting a presentable table for an invited guest, no matter who it is.” He smiled looking directly at her. ” Hello, I’m Efe, Kadir’s brother, and you must be Nicolette.” He extended his hand for a handshake. She froze, her eyes fixed on him, her heart beating loudly in her ears.

Efe had held his hand out to her for an awkward amount of time before she finally responded. ” Yes,.I am, Nicolette I mean, uhh, but you may call me Nicky, most of my friends do.” She scanned over him, thinking, never had she seen such a handsome man. He was as close to perfect as she might imagine. He had on a loosely fitting t-shirt a pair of cargo shorts and deck shoes. His necklaces that he always wore, and a bandana tied around his neck. His long hair was always down, blowing in the wind, he was quite a sight to behold. Kadir wasn’t completely unaware of the look she was giving Efe, but he kept busy chatting on about each dish that was on the table. Efe looked away from her, after the handshake, feeling uncomfortable with continuous encounter with her eyes. He cleared his throat, ” Yes Kadir has made an exceptional breakfast, I will make a plate a go below to eat, I have some navigation issues to work on.” He wanted to leave the two of them alone for a while, and her incessant looks were making him feel weird. Kadir objected at first, ” No brother, sit down and eat with us, the maps can wait for a while.” 

He shook his head, “No, you two enjoy, I’ll get us ready to shove off.” He looked at Kadir with that look of insistence, grabbed his plate a went below to his cabin. Kadir thought it was strange, but then he never did claim to understand his older brother. ” Ok then, let’s eat, are you hungry.” He smiled at her, but she was still in a state of unexpected infatuation and could barely regain her composure enough to return the smile. Her mind was full of what she had seen, so their conversation wasn’t as inspiring as the day before, as she kept reliving her introduction to Efe, and the feeling she got from the touch of his hand. It had her feeling flushed and she was sure her face was color of the fresh strawberries he was placing on her plate. ” These are delicious, the best I’ve had in a while….you’re not allergic are you.” He asked quickly pulling them back away from her plate. ” No,..I’m not, thank you.” She responded with a nervous glance at him. She needed to regain so sort of normalcy, as her stomach was full of excitement from meeting Efe, it had really taken her by surprise. ” Kadir, I need to visit the bathroom, may I go below.” He nodded, ” Of course, it’s the door at the end, on the right. Are you ok.” She smiled, ” Yes I’m fine, I’ll be right back.” She scooted out from behind the table and made her way down the stairs. 

Her heart was still beating fast, and she wondered where he was, as she passed through the galley and on towards the the door. Efe had finished his work on the maps, setting the coordinates for the departure. He opened the door to his cabin and much to his surprise he saw her standing there, ” I’m sorry, are you looking for the bathroom…it’s that door.” He pointed to the next door down. She smiled, ” Well not exactly.” Her voice wasn’t much more than a whisper. ” I was hoping to run into to you again.” She moved closer to him, touching his arm, her eyes drilled into his. Efe stepped back, he thought about just slamming the door in her face, but he didn’t want to make a scene, ” Look, your date is up on deck, and probably waiting on you, I suggest you take care of your business and go back up top and finish your breakfast. Her smile vanished, and the humiliation from his words all but slapped her in the face. She turned quickly and walked away. Efe leaned against the wall of his cabin, ” Damn it, I’m ready to get the hell out of here.” He thought, knowing his brother would never forgive him if they hung around.

That was something he never wanted to do….come between his brother and a woman. She wasn’t the type that his brother needed; he knew that for sure.

” I’ll make sure it never happens……..not with this one…

Chapter 15

Efe watched her as she climbed the stairs back to the top deck, a few choice words had come to mind went he tried to describe her, but none he would repeat to Kadir. After a few minutes he too went up top, ” Kadir, I hate to cut your breakfast short, but I think we need to get on our way. The wind has shifted, and we can get some good travel in with just the sails.” He kept his eyes strictly on his brother, not looking her way for fear of her giving him that look. Kadir started to object, but he stern look on his brothers’ face told him it was no use. “Ok Abi, can you give us a minute.” They spoke in Turkish to each other; sure she wouldn’t understand what was being said. She looked at them confused, and a bit embarrassed, ” You can speak in front of me, if you have something to say about me. Have I done something wrong.” She glanced from Kadir to Efe. Kadir smiled at her, taking her hand, ” No of course not, my older brother sometimes forgets how rude it is to speak in another language in front of a guest.” Efe lowered his eyes as if he was being reprimanded, ” Excuse me for my rudeness, but we really do need to take advantage of the weather while we can.” He spoke in English for her to understand. She stood quickly, ” Why do you have to leave so soon, we just met. Why don’t you stick around for a day or two and meet some of my friends.” Efe reluctantly looked her way, seeing the look that he had seen below, that look in her eyes telling him she would be more than happy to get to know him better. He looked away quickly before Kadir could notice, ” No, we are on our way to Sardinia, and I want to keep on schedule.”

Kadir rolled his eyes and shook his head, ” Ok Abi, but didn’t think we were on a schedule, that’s what you said earlier, so why not hang around for another day. You might see that woman again that you met the first night we were here.” He leaned over whispering to him and giving him a wink. Immediately Efe gave him that look of authority, his eyes blazing at him, ” Little brother, I said we should shove off in an hour, and that’s what I mean. Please say goodbye to your guest and let’s prepare to leave.” He spoke almost in a whisper through his gritted teeth. Kadir had never seen this side of his brother, and to be honest, he scared him a little bit, ” Sure thing brother.” He replied to him, feeling a fear rise up in him. Efe left them on the deck and went back to his cabin, trying desperately to settle his nerves. He had almost made it obvious what was going on, but he wasn’t about to let his younger brother be manipulated by this woman. She was evidently skilled at what she did, but he wouldn’t let her hurt Kadir that way. 

It had been a few minutes when he heard his brother in the galley. He knew he was angry by the way he was banging the dishes around. Efe took a deep breath, preparing to meet his brother with an explanation, as he opened the door to his cabin.  ” Kadir I know you’re upset with me right now, but we really need to get started.” Efe had stopped in the galley to help his brother. Kadir turned and looked at him, ” Why,…why were  you so rude in  front of her, you seemed to be scolding me like I was a child.” His eyes darted his way, full of hurt. Efe knew is his mind this was the right thing to do, if not there would have been a bigger problem between them. ” I didn’t mean to be rude, and I certainly didn’t mean to make you feel like a child.” The older brother stammered, searching for the right words. ” But at times you go against everything I say, so that makes me have to more forceful that I want to be.” Kadir retaliated, ” You are just my brother Efe, you are not my father. There are some things that I can decide on my own.”

The next couple of hours were spent in silence, as they got ready to shove off. With all the preparations done and the supplies were stocked, Kadir untied the cables that had secured them to the dock and jumped aboard. They made their way out into the channel that would take them on their way to Sardinia. Once they rounded the southernmost tip of Ibiza Island, and the wind grabbed their sails, Efe finally felt that calming relief. What could have been a problem between the brothers had been avoided, they had survived a potential disaster and he didn’t want to be put in that situation again. There wasn’t any woman worth the relationship that he had with his brother….

Efe was the first to break the awkward silence that had hovered over them since breakfast, “Kadir I know you are still angry, but there’s some things that I do for your own good and trust me I didn’t mean to hurt you.” His words stung Kadir, he always did that, always tried to make him feel inferior. He didn’t look at his brother because his eyes had filled with tears, he hated it when he was so emotional, but that came from his mother, he just shook his head. Did he really thing he was that stupid, that unaware, that naive to not have seen the look Nicolette had given Efe. He had seen it the second that his brother had stepped on deck from his cabin below, and he knew the bathroom was only an excuse to get a chance to see Efe again, how dumb did his brother think he was. But he would have liked to been given the chance to handle it the way he saw fit, and not the way his brother had. 

” So, your rudeness to her was for my own good, and not from the fact she was hitting on you from the minute you stepped on the deck.” Kadir’s voice was harsh but firm. ” Do you think that little of me, do you not have any faith in my judgement.” The younger brother was struggling with his words. Efe’s heart sank, he had known what she was up to, her intentions, and he had made him look weak in front of her. ” Abi, I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you had seen what she was up to.” I wouldn’t want to come between you and any woman, I want you to know that.” Efe’s voice broke as he spoke, filled with regret at what had happened. Kadir looked at Efe, he smiled, ” I’m not a silly schoolboy Abi, and I can handle some things on my own, that is if you give me the chance.” 

Efe nodded, seeing his little brother for the first time as a man. Maybe he had acted to quickly, maybe he should have let him take care of it, but that protectiveness of his younger brother came out in him with a vengeance.

” Well, that was a lesson learned.”  His little brother could take care of himself.”  He thought. 

But he would always be there to take care of what his brother couldn’t……

Chapter 16

Sanem was sitting in her chair, gazing out across the water, as she did most of the time when she needed to think. Her sons had been for a few weeks, Efe had called twice, but neither time had she been able to speak to her youngest son. It bothered her, was there something wrong, was he sick or had they had a fight and he was staying his distance. She had no idea where they were, just that they were out there in that massive sea of uncertainty. She would feel it if something had happened to them, if they were in trouble, she knew she would, it would be her motherly instinct. She would never understand their need to put themselves out there, to sail about in that boat and search for their happiness. She thought back so many years ago, but the feeling still lived inside, of the time that Can escaped on that boat, just sailed away without a look back. She regretted every minute he was gone, knowing she had been the reason for his departure. He had found himself out there on the sea, accepting all that had happened to them and owning the guilt of being a jealous and rude man when it came to Sanem. Her heart still ached remembering the pain she had lived through when she realized she had lost him.

That boat had been his savior, it had kept him safe when he couldn’t even think of anything but her as he drifted without meaning on the open sea. That boat protected him as he lay on the bow writhing in pain from the memory of her smell, longing for the touch of her hand on his face…..the boat protected him. She prayed for the same protection from that boat for her sons, to guide them safely on their journey to find themselves, and to bring them back to her just as it had done with Can. The tears had rimmed her eyes, as she hoped they were safe and sound and having the time of their lives, the love hate relationship she had with that boat was being put to the test once again. 

 Can had watched her from the cottage, knowing full well she was struggling with her inner voice. He too had his reservations about his sons taking on this journey, but he trusted both and most of all he trusted the boat to keep them safe. He walked down to the water’s edge, standing next to his wife, ” My love, I know they are ok, and I have a feeling they will be calling In the next couple of days.” He said as he stroked her hair. He had such love for this woman, that at times it shocked even him. His life before her was like that of another person, someone he didn’t know anymore, someone that didn’t live within him any longer. He sat down beside her, ” They will return home safe and sound, and full of life, ready to start a different kind of adventure…. their future. He took her hand, as she looked into his eyes, ” I know you’re right, but my heart misses the sound of them laughing and even the fighting, it just seems so quiet now.” She gently kissed his fingers that were entwined with hers. Her heart needed him, she needed him to calm all the fears that she felt. Why did our children always want to move on, grow up and become the person you always wanted them to be, her heart begged to know the answer, and why did it hurt so much. 

Their silence was always the cure, they heard each other without saying a word. The hours went by, as they watched the waves wash up on the beach, ” I wonder where they are, I hope they are safe.” Sanem spoke in a mumbled whisper. Can looked her way, ” They are, I know it.” The best he could figure, they were probably on the way to Sardinia by now, and he hoped they called when they got there. He had already made up his mind if they didn’t call in a day or two, he would make that call himself, just to ease his wife’s heart and his mind. He wrapped her up in his arms, making her welcome him, he would always protect her, shield her from whatever was making her sad. His desire for her was just as strong now as it had been all those years ago, so he instinctively scooped her up his arms and carried her to the cottage. She didn’t resist, the feeling of him made her happy, she wanted this distraction as she felt that heat rise up through her body. It was a heat of desire for this man she loved with all her heart. He carried her to their bed, the smell of her triggered all his senses, he wanted her more than ever. 

Sanem had taken a deep breath, her defenses stripped away, all she wanted or needed was Can. Their longing and wanting of each other had never lessened over the years, maybe they had a little less stamina, but the quality of it was still the same. He fulfilled her, he recharged her, he loved her like nothing else mattered in their life. She whispered, ” You served up a wonderful distraction my love, you made me forget all my worries, thank you.” Her lips touched his softly, with nothing more than their breath between them. He moaned, fully erupted in passion, her touch made him feel alive as he sucked in the breath that lingered there before covering her mouth with a demanding kiss. Her body was his, as she felt the goosebumps rise to the surface of her skin, and he took what was his, leaving nothing to the imagination. 

Sometime later, she laid there watching him sleep. He always made everything right again, she had completely forgotten about the boys. She was overreacting but it was hard not to, but they were their fathers’ sons, and going off seeking adventure had always lurked in their heads. Of course, she wanted them to be happy, but why couldn’t they be happy right here. She slid out of bed quietly so not to wake him, grabbed her notebook and curled up on the sofa. Her notebooks where packed full of all the memories of her life, and all the adventures they had been on with Efe and Kadir. She started to write, pouring out her soul onto paper, telling herself this is what mothers do, ” We mothers conceive and carry a child for months, nurture and love that child for years, instilling the most important values of life into that child, then we say goodbye to them. We send them off to be what we as parents could not be. They are an extention of us, our future, our dreams and wishes, our legacy. So, we should be proud of what they are, for they are what we wanted to be.”……..

The two brothers could see the light from the port, they had made another destination. The tension between them had disappeared as it always did, and they were back to themselves again. ” Kadir, let’s get rooms for tonight, I could use a good hot shower and a nice soft bed. How about you.” The older Divit smiled at him. Kadir nodded, ” Sounds good, and I have to call mom, I haven’t talked to her since we left.” He felt a little pang of homesickness stab his heart. 

” They both felt it a little, that safe secure place they both loved, and the sound of their parents’ voice.” But neither would let it show, how much they missed home.

Chapter 17

They had securely docked the boat and gathered some personal belongings and started off to find a hotel. The hotel that was closest to the pier was older but very elegant, and well within their price range, so they both took a room so they could have their privacy. It was late in the evening by the time they got settled in their rooms, so Kadir opted to order room service and relax, but Efe wanted to walk down the street to a small restaurant they had pasted on the way. Kadir called home while he was waiting on his dinner, hearing his mother’s voice was a welcomed treat. He explained all that happened, and how much he was enjoying this trip, after assuring her that the two were getting along and there was no disagreements or fights, they hung up, but he promised to call again before they left Alghero. Sanem’s heart was calmer now, she had talked to her youngest son. The fears that she had conjured up in her head were pushed away, but she still missed them, and wouldn’t be completely happy until they returned home. 

Efe took the ride down in the elevator from the third floor, wishing his brother had come with him so he wouldn’t have to eat alone. He exited the elevator and started through the lobby, but the voice of a woman stopped him. He turned to see two women and a man at the checkin desk, having quite a discussion with the front desk clerk. It seemed they didn’t speak Italian very well and we’re having difficulty understanding the rates. Efe observed for a minute but then continued out the door heading to the restaurant. He wondered why people would come to a different country and at least not know the basics of the language, from what he could tell the group was from America, by the conversation she was having with the other two people. He shook his head, but something inside him made him turn around and head back to the hotel lobby. He really hadn’t even realized he had done it until he was standing in front of the desk clerk asking if he could help. The woman spun around, her deep blue eyes were full of electricity as she stared at him, ” Excuse me, but we are ahead of you sir.” She let the words spew out of her mouth. Efe turned calmly looking her in the eye, ” I know ma’am, I am merely trying to help the situation.” He spoke to her in his perfect English translation. Her mouth dropped in surprise, but she had never been so happy to see another person in her life.

The clerk smiled at him, welcoming his interruption and explaining to him the cost of the room that was in question. Efe nodded turning to the woman, ” It seems the room you’re asking about is 105 euros, which…..  ” I understand the the price of the room, I just didn’t understand the conversion to dollars.” She smirked, standing there with her hands on her hips. He smiled politely, ” Yes, if you would let me finish… 105 euros is equivalent to 126.00 US dollars. So, if you have 126.00 dollars then you can book the room.” He stated defiantly. The other woman whispered something in her ear, then smiled sheepishly at him. He raised his eyebrows and tilted his head, ” Can I be of any other service to you my lady.” He mocked her by bowing slightly. Her eyes turned a little darker and her face took on a pale shade of pink, ” I think not, and I do thank you for helping.” She nodded towards him. She turned back to the clerk, pulling out the currency from her bag, her demeanor tamed a bit. Efe started towards the door, he looked back over his shoulder for one last look, wondering what had brought the three to Sardinia. He had never seen anyone quite like her before, her eyes were as blue as the deepest part of the ocean, and her hair that cascaded down her back was the darkest, richest Auburn he had ever seen. It almost looked like dark shiny copper, with a touch of honey drizzled through it. She had made him look twice, that was something that didn’t happen very often. 

The restaurant was almost empty when he walked in, his hair flowing down around his shoulders, and his skin glowing from the hours of being on the sea. He was hungry and wanted a good hearty meal, and nothing could beat the thought of a steak and potatoes, with a big salad on the side. Kadir was a good cook, but the galley wasn’t the best place to fix a meal that would stick to your ribs. As he waited for his dinner, flashes of the woman in the lobby popped up in his head, she wasn’t a stylish sophisticated beauty, but more of a natural down to earth woman that didn’t have a clue how beautiful she looked. He saw her eyes, remembering the volts of electricity that were shooting from them when she was angry, and the way snapped at him for interrupting,….it made him smile. He forced her out of his mind, preferring to think about the possibilities that this place might have for them. He had heard a lot about this beautiful town, his father had even spent some time here when he traveled from Turkey to Spain. They seemed to be retracing their Dads footsteps from all those years ago, that time he was lost, mourning the rejection of his beloved Sanem. They had both heard the stories numerous times, how she had sent him away from Istanbul, her heart aching from the pain of all the wrongdoing from Huma and their uncle. Efe still held a bit of resentment toward his father’s brother for all the things he had done to his mother. But neither of his parents had lost faith in their love for each other, so over time and with destined hearts full of love, they found each other again. 

He was lost in the memory of the love story of his mother and father, when a voice behind brought him back to the present, ” Excuse me, but I didn’t get to thank you properly for helping us at the hotel.” Efe looked up to see those electrified blue eyes staring at him, he swallowed hard, almost at a loss for words. She smiled, something she hadn’t done in their first meeting, and his heart rose slowly into his throat, making him unable to speak. After a second she asked, ” Do you remember me, from the hotel….it was just a while ago.” Her voice sounding perturbed. His eyes refused to blink, and he was sure his mouth was hanging open, as she took offense at his silence. ” Well anyway…thank you for translating for me, hopefully we won’t meet again.” Her words stung him, jarring him back to reality. ” Oh….I’m sorry, you just took me by surprise.” He stammered, trying to regain his composure. She shot him a look of annoyance, ” Of course, there’s numerous reasons to be rude, and you have displayed almost all of them.”  She turned to walk away, as her friends had found a table and sat down. Efe jumped up, much to his own surprise, latching onto her arm, ” No…I wasn’t meaning to be rude, please…..why don’t you join me.” He had said those words almost unconsciously, but he couldn’t look away from her eyes, and the feel of her skin had seared his hand with a heat he had never felt before. His brain was fried, his heart beating hard as he waited for her answer. 

She looked at his hand grasping tightly to her arm, the feeling of warmth surging through her body….

” I don’t even know your name, so why would I join you for dinner.”…….was her reply.

He smiled and extended his hand.”  I’m Efe Divit, and I’m very pleased to meet you.”

Chapter 18

She really hadn’t noticed how tall and muscular he was on their first encounter, but when he stood and offered his hand there in the restaurant, she was in awe. She instinctively placed her hand in his to introduce herself, ” Hello Mr. Divit, I’m Carolina Munro.” Her eyes really seeing him for the first time. He smiled a little bigger as he warmly covered her hand with his other hand, making her feel a bit weak in the knees. ” Well Ms. Munro, now that we are formally introduced, would you like to join me for dinner.” Efe had blatantly turned on the charm, something he hardly ever did, but he felt a bit intimidated by her which had thrown him for a loop. He hadn’t released her hand yet, holding it purposely until she answered him, ” It might seem rude to my friends if I did, so….why don’t you join us.” She replied with a slight smile and tilt of her head. Just that ever so slight gesture from her made him tingle, so he accepted before she changed her mind. ” Absolutely, I would love to, are you sure your friends won’t mind.” He asked, hoping they wouldn’t refuse his company.

He motioned to the waiter that he was moving to the other table, and quickly followed her. Her friends welcomed him, both seeming a bit surprised at her invitation to him. ” Thank you for allowing me to join you, it’s not easy to dine alone, especially in an unknown place.” Efe nodded to them but keeping an eye on the beautiful woman to the right of him. She could feel his gaze, and it made her blush a bit, and she had that warm feeling that came along with being completely intrigued with someone. After making all the introductions Efe asked them how they happened to be there in Sardinia, ” I take it you all from the United States, so what brings you here, just vacation or what.” He asked, dying to know everything about her. She shook her head, ” Actually we came for work, well we hoped to go to work here that is. At one of the resorts, we heard they were hiring for seasonal help and we thought we would give it a try.” She turned looking at him a bit sheepishly. He had her in a fog, her mind barely able to function, as his eyes captivated her. ” And you…what brings you to Sardinia.” She asked, looking squarely into his face. He had the most hypnotic aura about him that is was difficult to look away, he seemed to pull her in like a magnet.

He shifted in his seat, a little nervous at the way he felt. She had him off centered, almost flustered, if that could be a word to describe Efe Divit. “Uhm, well I guess you could say I’m on vacation. I’ve taken some time off, a hiatus, and we are sailing to a few islands in the Mediterranean.” He told them, hoping it make him sound like a drifter. She smiled, ” So you’re a sailor, and who’s on this trip with you.” Her voice was soft and made him shiver, as he tried to answer, another thing he had never experienced. He blinked his eyes to release that eye contact, ” My brother and I, he’s my younger brother,Kadir.” She nodded and smiled, ” And where is he, why didn’t he come to dinner with you.” She asked. Then she quickly put her hand over her mouth, ” I’m sorry, I’m asking way too many questions, that’s a flaw of mine, I’m to curious.” She laughed then turned away focusing on her meal. “A flaw…..no,….she was about as perfect a person as he had ever seen, he thought, I would be willing to tell her anything she wants to know about me.”  He shook his head, ” No you’re fine, he just decided to stay in his room, he ordered room service. He likes his alone time, and I think he likes to get away from me.” He said giving her a smile. 

He tried to eat as slow as possible to prolong the dinner, but there he was,staring at an empty plate. Her friends quickly excused themselves as soon as they were done, saying they were ready to call it a night, leaving the two of them there alone. She was visibly nervous, shifting in her chair, ” Well, that was a very good dinner, how was yours.” She asked, fidgeting with her napkin. He smiled and looked down at his plate, ” I think a clean plate is the definition of a good dinner, at least that’s what I’ve always heard.” He was trying hard not to sound flippant. He turned to her quickly, ” Would you like to take a walk, I’m not familiar with the town but maybe we won’t get lost.” The sincere look on his face made the answer easy, ” Yes, that would be great, maybe just a short one.”  He stood helping her with her chair which was something out of the ordinary for her. ” Where are you from, I’m from Massachusetts, Hull Massachusetts, it’s just a small town.” She chattered as they headed out of the restaurant. He listened to her talk as they walked down the street, her voice covering him in calmness, yet making his heart feel an excitement that he wasn’t prepared for.

After a minute, she stopped, looked at him and laughed, ” I asked you a question and never gave you a chance to answer, I’m sorry. Where are you from” She asked, her eyes sparkling as the streetlight caught a glimpse of her face. It mesmerized him, how they glowed in the dark, almost unnaturally, and he couldn’t look away, ” I’m from Malaga, Spain….born and raised. But my parents were from Istanbul, Turkey, hence the name Efe. That’s not your typical Spanish name.” He smiled trying to hide the fact he was staring at her. She nodded, ” Got it, so your Turkish, interesting….I don’t think I’ve ever met a Turkish person before. I went to college in Boston, where there was a lot of different nationalities, but…….I don’t recall Turkish.” She said, thinking she had never seen anyone that looked like him before. She wondered if his brother was just as pleasing to the eye as he was, if so, she would think about a trip to Istanbul, Turkey. They walked a little further down the street, toward the pier, ” Yes, we’ve been sailing now for about 3 weeks, and decided we would get a room for a night or two. We needed a good bed and a hot shower.” He was telling her, as she studied him. She had never seen such a person, he was one of a kind, the long hair his style of clothes, it was different than anyone she had met before. She wanted to know more about him, but if he was just there for a day or two, she didn’t want to get to involved. She wasn’t ready for a heartbreak….

He was really beginning to relax and enjoy this conversation with her, she was starting to feel like someone he had known for a long time, the way she listened so intently to him, not taking her eyes off him. He took her to the pier and showed her his boat, ” Well, here it is, this is our boat….well it’s actually my father’s boat, but we grew up sailing with him on it. This was my Dads “saving grace”, it kept him safe until him and my Mom could find each other again.” His eyes tearing up from the confession. He turned away from her quickly, upset with himself that he had shown that sort of emotion to someone he had just met. But Carolina had seen it, his vulnerable side, his human side, he wasn’t perfect after all. She had thought that anyone looking as perfect as he did must be just that…perfect, but she was seeing a passionate and sensitive person.

She touches his cheek, just so slightly he wasn’t even sure she had, but that wave of heat passed through his body like a volcano. Her eyes smiled at him, letting him know that this side of him was more appealing than just his looks. ” What do you mean, until they could find each other again.”  She asked, begging with her eyes for him to explain. 

He smiled at her, ” Well it’s a long story, but a beautiful story, one that I have heard over and over all of my life and never got tired of hearing it.” 

“It’s a story that about a love that most people will never know in their lifetime….

“It sounds like a beautiful story…will you tell it to me.” She asked him, her voice soft and comforting.

He smiled, ” I would love to…. but it might take a while….

Chapter 19

When he finally looked at his watch it was after midnight, ” Wow, it’s pretty late, I can’t believe we’ve been talking for so long.” He had been completely involved in finding out everything about her. She stood quickly from the bench where they had been sitting, almost like she was embarrassed that she had stayed there so long. ” I better go, I’m sure Nick and Michelle are probably worried about me.” She fidgeted nervously with her hair. He took her arm, ” The hotel is this way.” He motioned toward the next street over. They walked along on silence, they both had revealed almost their whole life story in a matter of a few hours, which was a little unusual for Efe.  He had never been much of a talker, not about his personal life anyway, but she had brought out a different side of him. He glanced her way, just to make sure he wouldn’t forget each detail of her face, the shininess of her hair, and those eyes, how could he forget them. 

She caught him looking at her and smiled, ” Do I have something on my face, if I do then please wipe it off.” She blushed, looking down at the street. He didn’t look away, ” No, I’m just looking, trying to memorize it, but what I see can’t be wiped off.” His eyes delved deeper into hers, until she finally turned her head. He had always known what to say to a woman, it just came naturally, but this time it was different, he was nervous, unsure of himself. He knew he wanted to see her again tomorrow, but the words were stuck in his throat, and when they did come out, they came out bluntly and not very sincere. ” Carolina, if you have nothing else to do tomorrow, I guess we could go sightseeing, or maybe hit the beach.” He stammered, so totally unlike him. He closed his eyes, and gave himself a talking to, ” You better get it together or she’s going to think you’re nothing but a loser.” She smiled back at him, ” We’ll see, we really need to see about our jobs, probably first thing In the morning, but after that I’m free.” 

The ride in the elevator to the second floor for her room, ended much to quick, as the doors opened and stepped out, Efe stammered ” It’s been fun, I really enjoyed spending time with you, so tomorrow….Uhh, afternoon.” She smiled, ” Absolutely, I’m already looking forward to it.” She replied as the door started to shut. That instant he realized that they hadn’t exchanged phone numbers, he quickly hit the open button on the elevator, “Wait, I didn’t get your number, I’ll need to call you, or you’ll need to call me.” She laughed, and the sound made him shudder, it was so pure and warm, it almost made him tingle. ” You’re right, here put  your number in my phone, and I’ll call you when I get in my room, so you can have mine, ok.” She gave him a wink, as she handed him the phone.. ” There you go, you have mine, and I expect a call in a few minutes.” He gave her that half smile and a little Divit charm. She started off towards her room, looking back and waving at him as she got to her door. 

The elevator door closed and Efe took his fist and beat it against the wall of the elevator, ” What is wrong with you man, you almost made a fool out of yourself,….what do you mean, almost, I think you did.” He shouts in his head. He opened the door to his room and plopped down on the bed, his head full of her, the way she laughed, her eyes, that hair. His phone rang and he answered it quickly, ” Hello Carolina…you did call, I was afraid you wouldn’t. She sighed, ” Of course I called, ok now you have my number, when we are free, I’ll call. See you then” he looked at the phone in his hand, he really didn’t know how he would be able to wait until tomorrow to see her again. Even the sound of her voice was recorded in his brain, this woman had entered his mind and he didn’t want to let her go. But what if she didn’t feel the same way, he knew he had to be more himself tomorrow, that confident and dynamic person he had always been. Not this person he was tonight, tripping and stuttering over his own words, he had to have that Divit charisma.  He fell asleep hearing that laugh repeating in his head. 

A loud knock on the door brought him up off the bed, ” Efe, are you up, come on man, it’s almost noon, let me in.” He jumped up and opened the door, ” Why did you let me sleep so late, damn.” He grabbed his phone to make sure he hadn’t missed her call. Kadir shook his head, ” Come on let’s go get something to eat, and check out the town.” Where were you last night,” Kadir smiled looking around, “I expected to see a woman in your room this morning.” Efe shot him a look, ” I don’t always have a woman in my room. I did meet a woman, but this one’s not a one night stand kind of woman.” His face lighting up. Kadir looked at him, amazed at what he had said, “What, Efe Divit met a woman and she refused to come back to his room.” He teased him. Efe shook his head, ” No, you got it all wrong little brother…she didn’t refuse, I didn’t ask her.” Efe explained as he rushed around to get ready. He grabbed his clothes, ” Look Kadir I’ve got to get ready, so you’re on your own today.” He wrinkled up his forehead, ” What do you mean, where are you off to today.”  Efe smiled, ” I’m spending the afternoon with Ms. Carolina Munro, from Massachusetts, and don’t you dare make fun of me punk.” He rushed into the bathroom to get ready, leaving Kadir standing there with his mouth hanging open.

Carolina and her friends had filled out all the necessary papers and answered all their questions, leaving there pretty confident they had gotten the job. Their manager told them he would let them know the next day, but they were very good candidates. As they headed back to the hotel, she called Efe, her two friends smiled at each other, shocked that she had found someone so far away from home. But happy that she could finally move on from that disastrous affair that had broken her heart. Michelle knew the attraction between the two at dinner last night was bound to turn into something. The way he looked at her was a lot more than a casual friends that had just met. 

“Efe, we’re through at the resort, hey, let’s go to the beach, it’s so hot I think that’s what I want to do. Is that ok with you.” He welcomed her voice, like a breath of fresh air, blowing gently over his body. He felt weak inside, but it was a feeling that excited him, ” Whatever your heart desires.” He answered, meaning every word. 

Yes, excited, he was excited to be with her…. his mind racing at the thought

His father had explained his feeling about his mother to him one time as, “feeling as light as a feather, yet stronger than he ever been.”   Now I think I know what he meant……

Chapter 20

Kadir was disappointed to say the least that he would have to spend the day alone, but he was excited for his brother. He had never seen him like this with a woman before, he was nervous. Efe rushed around in his room, getting his self together, ” Kadir I’m sorry but I’m meeting her in a few minutes in the lobby, so will you be ok on your own.” He asked as he stuffed a change of clothes and a towel in his backpack. He had his swimming trucks and and t-shirt on so Kadir figured they were going to the beach, ” Dont worry about me, you just go have fun.” He said as he he watched him slick his hair back and twist it up into a bun. He always looked like a model, no matter what he did, but this morning he looked more like a nervous schoolboy. He checked his watch as they stood waiting for the elevator, ” Damn these things are slow, she’s going to think I’m not coming.” He paced back and forth in front of the door. Kadir smiled, he couldn’t wait to see this woman, he wanted to see the woman that had his brother so flustered. 

The elevator doors opened out to the lobby, and there she was, standing with her back to the elevator, but there was no mistaking her. Her dark wavy auburn hair hung down almost to her waist, with those streaks of bronze highlighting running through it. Her body was slim but curvy, with her olive skin glowing. He stopped in his tracks, barely able to breathe, she did it……she took his breath away, he thought, as he felt that warm feeling rise from his feet and travel all the way up his body. Kadir nudged him, ” Hey, you have to get off the elevator, come on.” He pushed his brother on out the door. Now Carolina turned to see them coming their way, her heart jumped, as she watched him. He was so tall and muscled, his skin tanned for being on the sea for weeks, but he had pulled his hair up, which shocked her. She smiled at the sight of this beautiful man, and that shiver of pure excitement followed quickly. 

The chemistry between the two filled the whole lobby, as he walked towards her, making everyone turn and stare. She was definitely a gorgeous woman and Kadir could tell that his brother was completely enchanted by her. She smiled at him as he approached, ” Hi Efe, this must be your brother.” She said, quickly holding out her hand to Kadir. ” Hello Kadir, I’m Carolina, I’m glad to meet you, but I feel like I already know you.” Her eyes sparkled as she talked. Efe couldn’t speak, he just let his eyes absorb her, as he watched her and his brother exchange welcomes. Kadir glanced his way, but just briefly, and could see he was still in a trance, ” Yes hello, I’m happy to meet you as well.” Smiling to himself, and thinking, this one has my brother wrapped up tightly. Efe finally managed to speak, ” Oh yes, this is my brother, Kadir.” He spoke, looking around at everyone. Carolina laughed, ” Yes, we have already determined that Efe….are you ok.” Her laugh saturated the air with a warmth that made him smile, he could listen to it forever. 

” Are we ready,” she asked, looking at Efe and her friends, ” Kadir, you are joining us aren’t you, please say yes.” She flashed that smile that made him think twice about it, but that look from his brother made him decide otherwise. ” No…..but thank you for including me. I have some other plans.” He nodded, noticing his brother’s approval at his answer. ” Ok, then maybe next time, you can join us for dinner.” She said, realizing she had just planned a dinner date with Efe as well, a little forward, she thought, but she didn’t hear any objection from him, which made her smile…. Kadir watched the four walk away, as she instinctively grabbed Efe’s hand. I think my brother just met his match, he thought, this just might be the one to knock him for a loop. The thought made him smile, Efe Divit….at a loss for words in front of a woman….never thought I’d see the day. 

The beach was a little crowded, but they found a spot under on of the huge umbrellas. She spread out her blanket for them to lay on. He couldn’t seem to take his eyes off her, every movement seemed magical and special, mesmerizing him. She smiled at him, ” Can I get you to help me over there, pull the blanket that way a little.” She said, feeling his eyes roam over her. He obeyed quickly, embarrassed she had caught him staring at her again. He just couldn’t get a handle on himself; she had grabbed him in a way he never thought possible. Her friends had taken a spot next to them, and were relaxing, not wanting to intrude on this budding new relationship. Michelle looked over a Nick, ” I haven’t seen her like this in a while, not since Grant anyway.” She told him, watching her friend laughing and having a good time. She could tell this man was making an impression on her, she just hoped he wasn’t going to hurt her.

Efe was sure he had never had this much fun with anyone before, laughing and talking like they had known each other for years. His heart had welcomed her in, opening a whole new world to him, and he didn’t want it to end. She was different, funny, but not silly…. smart about things but not overbearing about it, like a knows it all, She was just perfect…..The sun had rose the temperature to a toasty 90 degrees, and they needed to cool off. ” Come on Efe, let’s take a dip.” She reached out her hand to him, offering to help him up. He accepted gladly, as he grabbed her hand. She took off her coverup and threw it on the blanket, without a care in the world, but the sight of her made him freeze. She was a magnificent woman, inside and out, as he looked at her in that bikini. He was proud to walk with her to the water, as he watched heads turn their way. They were a couple that made everyone look and stare, they were, “that beautiful couple”.

The day was coming to a close, but he knew he didn’t want it to end. Had she remembered about that dinner invitation she had made to Kadir he wondered. ” So where are we eating tonight.” She asked as if she was reading his mind. He smiled, ” You chose because anywhere is fine with me as long as you’re there.” She snarled her nose, ” Ohhh, that’s a good line Mr.Divit, does  that work every time.” She replied, nudging him. He was surprised that she thought that was a line, it couldn’t have been more true. ” No….no line, I’m serious, I don’t care as long as I’m with you.” His voice tainted with a little bit of hurt. She touched his arm, ” I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to insult you, I was just joking.” Her eyes searching his, making him weak. 

She had grabbed his heart…..and he didn’t know how to handle it…

He wanted to pick her up and carry her off somewhere, away from everyone. Just the two of them……she had shattered his world, and his ability to think..

” Was this that heartstopping feeling, that bolt of electricity that his Dad had talked about….if it was, he didn’t know how to handle it. But he knew she was his destiny”…….

Chapter 21

They had spent more time there than Kadir had expected, as a couple of weeks had passed, and Efe still hadn’t mentioned shoving off from Alghero. They were long overdue for their departure from Sardinia and the next island of Sicily. Efe had spent every day with Carolina, happy and content with whatever she wanted to do. His brother had never seen him like this before, he was even hard to recognize, with that sincere smile tattooed across his face. His brother was happy…. or was he in love. Kadir knew it would happen one day, someone would come along and jar his brothers’ senses, and render him an absolute and total mess. There were no all-night romps in his room, there wasn’t any of that take it or leave it attitude that his brother usually had when it came to women. He was completely devoted to her, and she to him. Her and her friends had gotten the job at the resort spa, so they were together every minute she wasn’t working, and when she was working, he would wait patiently for her there in the bar. He watched over her, as if someone may snatch her away from him if he wasn’t careful. 

Kadir finally got up the nerve to ask him when they were leaving, ” Abi, we have been here for a while now, don’t you think it’s time to continue on our way to Sicily.” He asked hesitantly, not wanting to flare up his temper. “I know you are infatuated with Carolina but are you ready to throw an anchor down here in Alghero.” Efe was still trying to find his heart, trying to understand the feeling he was having, so the answer to Kadir’s question was harder to come by than he thought. “I’m not sure Kadir, how do you know these feeling if you’ve never had them before.” Kadir confused at the words of his brother, ” So are we staying here, or are we going on. What does your heart tell you.” he asked, eyeing Efe. ” Ok, let’s prepare to leave, you go stock up our supplies and I’ll take care of the boat. Then I want you to get lost while I spend the last evening with her on the boat, deal.” Efe pleaded with Kadir, and of course he agreed. 

He waited for her as she finished her shift, not taking his eyes off of her. She was such a sight to behold, it scared him at the feelings he had. ” Hello, my love, sorry you had to wait, but my replacement girl was running late.” She moved close to him giving him a kiss on the lips. He tensed at the warmth he felt with her lips on his, the tingling sensation that made him shiver. She smiled, ” You ok, it seems like that scared you. We kissed before you know.” Then she looked deeper into his eyes, ” What Efe, what’s going on….and don’t say anything, because I can see it in your eyes.” Her voice demanding an answer. He swallowed hard, but smiled at her, trying to camouflage the aching in his gut that had come from their decision. ” Why would there be something, I’m just glad to see you, and I have a surprise for you.” Her eyes opened wide, ” A surprise, I’m not sure about surprises, sometimes they’re not always good.” She replied, still trying to get a feel for that look in his eyes. ” No…..this is good, I promise. I have the boat ready for a special evening with just us, alone. Dinner, a little music, some wine and the stars, what do you say.” She knew exactly what to say, ” Ok, that all sounds great, but there’s more…. I can tell.” 

Kadir had put the last-minute touches on the table and put the wine in to chill, just as his brother instructed. He had made plans with Nick and Michelle to take in a concert on the beach, and then stay his last night in the hotel room, giving his brother and Carolina all the time, they needed alone. He knew this decision to leave Sardinia was a hard one for Efe, but they needed to continue on with their plans, but he didn’t think his brothers’ heart was in it. They had planned to meet at the bar on the beach to have a drink, and then go on to the concert from there. As they arrived, he told them about their decision to leave the next day, to continue the trip to their next stop. Her friends knew Carolina would be devastated when she found out, they had seen such a change in her over the last week. She had returned to her old self again, able to laugh and be happy, they hoped she didn’t fall back into that dark hole she was in before. ” You don’t have to go, do you, is some reason you must leave. This is going to hurt Carolina so much.” Michelle pleaded with Kadir. ” Can you all wait a little longer, we thought Efe had feeling for her.” Her voice full of hurt for her friend. Kadir shock his head, ” If Efe doesn’t want to go then we won’t go, it’s all up to him, and I think he has feeling for her, that why it’s been so hard for him to leave.”

He helped her onto the deck of the boat, making sure she didn’t fall. Kadir had done a great job on the table and he even strung up some twinkling light around the top canopy. She sucked in her breath slightly at the sight of it all, ” Did you do this for me, Efe you’re so sweet.” She threw her arms around his neck, he couldn’t  refuse the gesture and wanted more, as the feel of her body entwined with his brought out an excitement he had never felt before. These were things that he was used to, things that he had done before, like hugging women, kissing, it was all nothing new to him….but with her it created a fury inside him that he didn’t recognize. He smiled at her, ” Yes, this is all just for you, and for me too.” He reached for the wine, popping the cork, he poured them both a glass, as she walked around the boat, ” You know this really is a beautiful boat, and it looks comfortable too. So what time are you and Kadir leaving in the morning.” The statement shocked him, he spun around to look at her, ” How did you know, I wanted to tell you myself.” His eyes met hers that were full of hurt. ” Carolina, I’m sorry. Kadir wants to move on, keep up with our plans. This has been hard for me, I want you to know, but we will be leaving in the morning.” 

She smiled, ” I knew this would happen, I knew you were going to move on, carry on with your trip. I just hoped in my heart you wouldn’t.” She looked away, out across the water, her heart twisting and turning, ” Do you have to go, I mean…do you have somewhere to be at a certain time,….how can you just leave Efe, I thought we cared for each other.” Her eyes opened wide, there was no anger in her eyes, just a look of questions.  Then she laughed, that stung him more than the slap across the face he had received from Paola, ” I see, was this part of your adventure, to see how many women you could get to fall for you on this trip….was I the first, or has there been others before me. Just tell me I wasn’t the first idiot. Efe stood there frozen in a state of shock, as the words of hurt came tumbling out of her mouth. ” Carolina, it is nothing like that, I do have feelings for you…if you only knew, but we need to finish our journey.” His body was literally shaking, as he tried to explain something he didn’t even understand himself. 

She moved closer to him, her presence made him weak, as she gently touches his face, searching his eyes for comfort. ” Efe, I know you have feelings for me, and I for you. You will be back and I’m going to be right here…waiting.” She turned and quickly stepped over the railing of the boat and ran down the pier, as if she was running from the truth…Efe blinked hard, holding back the tears that were forming in his eyes, that lump in his throat was growing bigger and bigger as he watched her disappear in the dark.

” What did you just do…you did nothing…you said nothing…you just let her go, you fool.” He yelled out loud.

What made him think he deserved any one like that…she was way to good for him. He tried to convince himself…

But his heart was already aching for her…….

Chapter 22

Kadir looked around, the table and food still there like he had left it the night before, the music was playing softly and Efe was stretched out on his back on the bow of the boat. He thought he was asleep, as he noticed the empty wine bottle and the half empty whiskey decanter sitting next to him. He started to clear the table, knowing the evening had not went as planned for him, he tried to remove the evidence, when his brother spoke, ” We’re leaving in a hour, so make sure the coordinates are right, I’ve already checked the boat and it’s ready to go.” He said, his voice sounding dry and unemotional. Kadir grabbed what he could from the table and went below to check the map, he knew he wasn’t going to question his brother about the night before. Kadir had double checked everything, and they were ready to go, but Efe had to pull himself together, he thought as he watched him stare out across the bay. It had been over an hour, and he hadn’t said a word, ” Abi, the boats ready to shove off if you are, just whenever you’re ready.” His voice was hesitant and unsure if to even speak, but he was worried about him. Efe shook his head, acknowledging what he said. He jumped up quickly, as if he had been struck by lightning, ” Ok, Abi untie the boat, we are heading to Sicily, come on be quick about it.” He yelled, starting the engine on the boat. And as always Kadir did as he said, and never asked a question.

The boat pulled away from the dock, ever so slowly, as if the boat didn’t even what to leave. Efe kept his eyes on the water in front of them, he knew if he looked back he would never leave this place. He never saw her there, watching the boat slip away, watching the man that had filled her soul with love float further out into the sea. She had to see him go, she had to watch him leave, if she hadn’t, she would be looking for him every minute of the day.. She let the tears fall, but in her heart she felt he would be back, and she would be there. 

The wind was strong, so they hoisted the sails and let Mother Nature take care of them. The port was nothing more than a blur on the horizon when he finally looked back, he had really done it, he left, but he didn’t feel good about it, in fact he didn’t feel anything. He was having a hard time even take a breath, his heart beat so hard it hurt his chest. What she must think of him, that hurt most of all, those words that still banged around in his head. Did she really think she had just been an adventure for him. In the past that could have been true, some of the women were just another notch in his belt, so to speak, but not this time….He didn’t speak, just navigated the boat through the water, with his brother watching his every move. 

It had been hours of silence, but Kadir knew better than to initiate a conversation, not with his brother. He would talk when he was ready and not before. The look on his face told most of the story, and he could imagine the rest, the alcohol, the uneaten food, their goodbye hadn’t been a good one. He had never seen his brother in this shape before, and he had been involved with a lot of women in his life. He felt bad insisting that they leave and go on with their journey, but he knew Efe wouldn’t have left if he didn’t want to, but still he felt responsible for the way his brother was feeling right now. He made them some sandwiches hoping he would eat, ” Abi, here have some food, I know you must be hungry.” He handed him the plate, but Efe brushed it away. ” Not now Kadir, I’m not hungry.” His eyes squinted and dark. He sat the plate down and moved away from him, giving him his space. 

It was hot as the afternoon sun beat down of them, but Efe hadn’t t moved from his spot at the wheel of the boat. Kadir was sitting at the stern of the boat, observing the way the waves were breaking against the boat, it was hypnotizing, the spray of water keeping him cool from the heat of the sun. He was really getting worried about his brother, what if he never spoke again, he knew that wasn’t the case, but if seemed like it. Just the refusal of the food was the only words he had spoken seen they left the port hours before. The day would soon be over, and he still wouldn’t be able to help his brother get past it. ” Kadir, start to lower the mainsails, we are anchoring for a bit.” He yelled to him. It shocked him, and he jumped up quickly to obey his order. It took a few minutes, but he had it done, and Efe dropped the anchors over the side. He rubbed his face hard with his hands, ” Abi, watch the wheel while I wash my face, don’t let the wind blow us off course.” 

Kadir had sat there for quite some time watching the wheel shimmy back and forth with the wind, but he held it on their course. He began to wonder if his brother was ok, he had been below for a long time. ” Efe, are you ok, can I help you with something.” He called out to his brother. There was no answer, he asked again, ” Abi, do you need help down there.” Still no reply. The sun was passing into the water, and the darkness was quick to appear, and still his brother was silent, but he left him alone. The stars were bright, and the moon was bouncing its beams off the water, making the water look like glitter, it fascinated him at the way things seemed so different on the water. They were magnified 100x brighter, the stars looked closer, almost like you could touch them. He never cared much for solitude but right now, he didn’t have a choice. It was just him and the water, the endless view of the sea, it made him feel uneasy. He hadn’t realized how much his brother had meant to him until now, what if he was left alone out here. Well, that was something he didn’t even want to think about.

At some point he laid back on the  bow of the boat and sleep was all he wanted. The rocking of the boat lulled him into a night of dreams, his brain taking him on a journey that turned into a nightmare. Efe had disappeared, just gone and he was left there to take care of the boat, and suddenly, he had forgotten everything he knew, all that he had been taught by his father. He knew it was a dream, but it still made him scared. In his dream he didn’t know where Efe had gone, but he thought he was alone, and then he heard him yell at him, ” Kadir, Kadir…wake up.” Kadir tried to open his eyes, but the sun was too bright. As he sat up, he saw his brother at the wheel, ” Kadir, raise the sails, the wind is good and strong.” He called to him. 

What is going on, he thought, am i still asleep. He shook his head to clear it, “Abi, what’s going on.” His brother had a smile that brightened his whole face, ” Come on Abi, get a move on, the wind is good so let go.” Turn the sails.” He yelled.

” Where are you going Efe, we need to go head southeast to go to Sicily.”

“No my brother, Alghero is to the north and that’s where we’re headed.” His face full of excitement……

Chapter 23

His whole-body language had changed, as he quickly grabbed the wheel to navigate the long boat back to the north. Kadir was confused, ” Efe, what is going on, I think you’re having some kind of breakdown. We are headed to Sicily.” His brother tried to convince him. Efe carried on as if he wasn’t talking, just with a determined look on his face. ” So we’re going back, you’re taking us back to Sardinia, Abi….what are you doing.” The silence was driving him crazy, and not at all like his brother. The wind was strong, carrying them through the water at record speed, almost like the boat was in a hurry to return to Sardinia as well. Efe manned the wheel with precision, his eyes bright and open wide, not at all like he was the day before. ” Kadir, how about some breakfast, I’m starving, and a cup of strong coffee too.” He told his younger brother. Kadir got right to it, just happy that he had finally spoke to him, ” You got it captain, how about some eggs and toast.” 

The breakfast hit the spot, and after a couple more cups of strong coffee, Efe seemed to be back to his old self again, ” Hey kid, take over for a while, my arms are getting tired, but keep the pace, I want to get back to Alghero as soon as possible.” He barked the orders to his first mate. Kadir smiled, ” Yes sir, so I take it you’re going back for Carolina, am I right.” The words slid out of his mouth, hoping not to touch a nerve with him. Efe stared out across the water, the endless view of water, ” Yes……I’m going back, I should have never left. My heart is aching so bad I can’t breathe so I have no other choice.” The admission from him shocked his brother, this was so unlike the older Divit son, this side of him seemed almost normal, almost like a person in love..

He disappeared down below, leaving Kadir to navigate them through the waters. His decision to go back had been a revelation for him and he needed to think it all through. His mind buzzing with anticipation, what if she wouldn’t have him now, but she did say he would be back and she would be waiting. He smiled, ” How did she know him so well in such a short time, he didn’t even recognize himself right now.” The voice in his head was saying. All he knew for sure was he felt empty as they had sailed out of the port the day before, and now he was full of hope and excitement. The view of her in his mind made him smile, he could hear her laugh just a plain as if she was there….but she was there, in his heart and soul. 

Kadir had watched as the sun dipped lower in the sky, ” We have to be getting close to Alghero, I hope, if I didn’t make a mistake.” He said out loud. The thought made him shudder, if he had taken them off course, Efe would actually kill him, he knew it. Efe had slept for a few hours, exhausted from the lack of sleep the days before. As he climbed the stairs to the deck his heart was light and happy, with that feeling they should be getting close to their destination. “How’s it going kid, are we there yet.” His voice sounding strong and happy. Kadir laughed, ” I hope so, if not I’m a deadman.” Efe looked hard out across the water, ” I think your saved, if I’m not mistaken, I can see the lights from the port in the distance.” A smile spreading across his face. 

Kadir asked, ” So Abi, what’s the plan when we get there, what are you going to do.” Waiting for his brother to answer didn’t take long, ” My brother, I have waited for that world stopping feeling to happen to me, that sensation of walking on the clouds….and that has finally happened. Carolina Munro, she has broken me, she has shattered that wall of defense that always surrounded my heart. She made me feel more than I’ve ever felt before.” He looked into his brother s eyes, “Kadir, my heart refuses to beat without her, my lungs refuse to breath without her, my life refuses to go on without her. She is the reason for me to live…. I love her…

He had never said those words out loud, in fact he had never even thought those words before, about anyone, but there they were, slipping from his lips, like a bold statement from his heart….    He loved her, he loved her….he said it again, just to hear it with his heart. Kadir sat down slowly, staring at his brother, he was in shock, but it was written all over his face…his brother was in love with Carolina.  

In the darkness they could see the lights of the port grow brighter, so they knew they would be arriving shortly……” Kadir wondered if Carolina felt the same was. Knowing how much his brother had suffered before coming to this conclusion, he would hate to see it fall apart…

They inched closer to the pier, as they saw a empty slip, and maneuvered the boat in. Kadir was busy tying the boat securely to the dock and Efe was tying down the sails. This trip had proven to be a learning experience for the younger brother, but nothing would have prepared him for the learning of his older brother. With the boat secure, with went below to gather a few things before heading to the hotel. As Efe came back to the deck, he saw her, there she was, that perfectly beautiful woman that held his heart in her hands…

Efe stopped, staring at her there on the deck of the boat, ” Carolina, you’re here, but…..She held up her hand to stop him….

” Yes, I’m here, just like I told you I would be…. Waiting for you to come back to me and rescue my heart…….

Thank you for reading this story. I know this was not my typical Can and Sanem love story, but a love story just the same. These brothers will be the legacy of Can and Sanem Divit and their life story will keep the love of their parents alive for stories to come….I will be working on the next story of Can and Sanem, and I will notify everyone when it develops….I love you all.

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