Black Heart

On a Sunday morning, Karim made the decision to visit Kaan's home. Welcomed with warmth, Kaan extended an offer of coffee. The spacious bungalow that Kaan inhabited, alongside his staff, caught Karim's attention. A peek into Kaan's family history revealed that his mother's passing occurred during his early years. This led to his father's remarriage and departure with his new wife, leaving Kaan under his grandmother's care. Sadly, Kaan's grandmother had passed away two years ago. Karim's visit had a significant purpose, as he openly discussed their thoughts on Zabel's marriage to mitigate societal rumors. He explained that, due to the critical situation, they saw marriage as the best solution for Zabel's protection. Karim believed Kaan was the best choice for this commitment. Kaan was taken aback by the proposal, and Karim emphasized that the ultimate decision was his to make. He reassured Kaan that their friendship would remain strong, regardless of his choice. Curious about Zabel's stance, Kaan asked about her opinion. Karim admitted they hadn't approached her yet but wanted to know Kaan's feelings first. Kaan stated that he didn't need to know the details of Zabel's past. He firmly believed that whatever had happened wasn't her fault. If Zabel agreed, he had no objections.

After gaining approval from Kaan's side, Jamal called Zabel into his office, indicating a crucial discussion. With curiosity, she took her seat, and her father began by addressing the situation's gravity. Jamal suggested that marriage could provide the security she needed against potential kidnappers. Zabel was momentarily stunned by his words. Jamal continued, expressing his deep love for her and the desire to find a partner who could protect and cherish her. Her mind drifted back to the masked man's threats, his words echoing that society would reject her, even Hydr would distance himself. Zabel returned to reality as Jamal spoke, and she responded with a sense of hopelessness, "No one will want to marry me. Those 10 days of my life have extinguished all hope." Jamal intervened, asserting that there are good people in the world like Kaan. She questioned his meaning, and Jamal explained that Kaan didn't hesitate to consider marriage with her if she agreed.Her voice quivered as she replied, "I can't do this with him. He doesn't deserve me. I'm not suitable for him." Jamal reassured her, "You deserve happiness, every ounce of it. Kaan understands what happened, and he knows it's not your fault." He proposed talking to Kaan first, and she left the room, contemplative.

The next day, Zabel called Kaan, expressing her desire to discuss something important. He agreed to meet around 5pm and hung up. In her room, she awaited his arrival. When the servant informed her of Kaan's presence, she replied that she was on her way. In the drawing room, she greeted him and offered coffee, engaging in casual conversation before delving into more serious matters. A sense of confusion lingered in her mind about where and how to begin, an unease Kaan noticed. He assured her that she could ask anything directly, emphasizing his respect for her decisions.

Summoning courage, she asked, "Why do you want to marry me?" Taken aback momentarily, Kaan collected himself and responded, "Our families have known each other for a long time, and your family feels like my own." As she attempted to interrupt, he insisted on addressing her question directly. She sought to understand his personal perspective, apart from familial connections. Kaan replied, "I like you and hold immense respect for you. Nothing can alter these feelings. I genuinely want what's best for you, even if it means not being with me." She questioned his ability to cope with her past and whether he deserved someone better. He halted her mid-sentence, affirming that what happened to her was an incident that could have happened to anyone. He questioned why she blamed herself and suffered unnecessarily. As their eyes met, there was an unspoken depth. She voiced her wish for a simple marriage, a nikah at home with only close family present. Kaan replied that he would support whatever decision she believed was right. They continued sipping their coffee, a quiet understanding lingering in the air.

Dressed in white, she meticulously styled her hair and applied a soft shade of lipstick. As she finished, a knock came at the door – it was her father. Seeing her in bridal attire, Jamal's eyes welled with tears. He kissed her forehead, affirming her beauty. The family bid farewell, and Zabel left, her heart full of emotions. On their big day, Zabel's beauty captivated everyone. As the marriage ceremony commenced, she exchanged vows with Kaan, both saying "I do" with conviction. Rings were exchanged, and Kaan sealed their union with a kiss on her forehead. Amidst the joy, her thoughts wandered to Hydr, her lost love, and a tear escaped her eye. Despite the happiness around her, a deep sadness lingered.

Here comes the time to say goodbye to the home that was filled with memories, love, and laughter. Zabel hugged Jamal with teary eyes, though he was trying to control his own tears. One by one, every family member hugged her and wished her happiness. Her mother couldn't stop her tears and cried like a child, but Jamal reassured her, "We bid farewell with smiles, not tears." They got into the car and left the house where Zabel had loved with all her heart.

Although Kaan's family had their own family house, he preferred to stay in his own house with his newlywed bride. When they reached home, they were warmly welcomed by the staff and Kaan's nanny, Salma. Kaan instructed Salma that Zabel was her responsibility, which she happily accepted. Salma took Zabel to Kaan's room, which was adorned with flower bouquets. Zabel hesitantly stepped in, observing the room. Salma informed her to use the intercom if she needed anything and left.

Zabel walked to the window, opening it to take a breath and reminisce about the events of the past few months. She thought about her journey from Hydr, her soulmate, to Kaan, her husband. The door clicked open, and Kaan entered. For a moment, she was taken aback, realizing that Kaan would also live in this room. She avoided his gaze, and he approached her, concerned about her well-being. She nodded in response.

Kaan gently led her to the bed and spoke about clarifying a few things. He assured her that he wouldn't force the relationship and that they could take their time. He suggested that they start as friends and get to know each other better. She silently agreed. Kaan excused himself, mentioning an important consignment at the port, and left after changing clothes. Zabel also changed into more comfortable attire and lay down on the bed, soon drifting into sleep.

Kaan reached the port and entered his office, switching on the computer. The wallpaper on the screen featured Zabel, and he sat in his chair with a contemplative expression. He whispered to himself, "There is no such thing as a soulmate, dear Zabel. You can never escape my grasp, no matter how hard you try. You cursed my existence, but look at what I've done. I brought you into this hell as a 'welcome to hell.'" He then drifted into a flashback of how he ensnared her like a bird without feathers, and a laugh escaped his lips.

To Be Continued