Chapter 46 - Part Two

Habbab

I finish dinner alone, lost in my thoughts when a strange movement coming from the kitchen catches my attention. I immediately stand up and cautiously cross the kitchen door. My eyes meet Derya Arslan. We haven't seen each other in months, and now that I have her in front of me, I realize that I no longer have to call her grandma or show her any respect.

"What are you doing here?" I ask, a mix of surprise and distrust in my voice. "How did you get in?"

Derya looks at me with sadness, her eyes filling with tears. I recognize her strategy, trying to evoke pity for herself, thinking that everyone will bend to her whims. It's hard to see this woman in a positive light, someone who lied to me and manipulated me for years. I will never trust her again.

"I came to ask for your help, Habbab," she says, her voice trembling. "I managed to escape Ahmet's clutches thanks to one of the guards who was still loyal to me. He's kept me captive all these months, claiming that I suffer from senil