Light within the Harem

Chapter 5

It did not take long for both Kadins to find out of Melekşima's new name, the news had angered mainly the second Kadin mostly as rumors spread throughout the Harem that Melekşima will replace her. Both Valide Sultan and Daye Hatun put the rumors to rest, not before those loyal to the Russelana cornered Melekşima- warning her not to rise above her station as a lowly Cariyes.

For the Sultan belonged to Hürrem and only Hürrem.

Melekşima sat on the cushions beside Gülfem Hatun, working on a beautifully crafted kaftan for the Sultan, her embroidery needlework was well praised by Valide Sultan who had gifted the young Cariyes some unwanted material to be made into a dress.
It was of light lilac with lace sleeves, plain and simple, Melekşima embroidered some flowers and beading to the hem of which was noticed by Mahidevran Sultan; who surprisingly gave her some advice on needlework for the future.

If the Bas Kadin had any problems with Melekşima being there, helping them embroider, she did not voice it.
As it will not do well with the Valide, and she may lose what little favour she has left with the Sultan.

Melekşima listened as Valide Sultan spoke of her worries about Hatice Sultan's pregnancy, morning sickness has hit hard during the Sultana's second trimester, and with another campaign coming up soon, Hatice's fears of Ibrahim Pasha's death spiked again- which obviously worries the Valide.

Mahidevran and Gülfem voiced their concerns for the Sultan's campaign, Melekşima had always wondered why Hürrem Sultan was never invited to these little gatherings, but then decided perhaps the woman's presence wasn't such a good idea.
Especially if Melekşima was present.

Daye Hatun entrusted Melekşima into the care of Fatmä and Ayşe Hatun.

With the short time of Melekşima being in Topkapi Palace, she had yet to have a chance in meeting the Sultan, though she did not have to wait long.

Melekşima along with another of the Valide's concubines, a Bulgarian woman by the name of Sakdia served sherbet and sweetmeats to the Valide, when the Sultan's presence was notified.

Sakdia accidentally dropped the tray which held the sweetmeats, quickly bowing and mumbled a small apology, Melekşima had wondered if it was a ploy to get the Sultan to notice her.

If it was, it failed.
The Sultan barely acknowledged their presence.
Melekşima knelt down to help the trembling girl in cleaning up the fallen food, once she rose back to her feet, she stepped on the hem of her dress- slightly tripping.

Until, familiar hands caught the stumbling girl.
A small flush of colour danced across Melekşima face, as she quickly shuffled backwards from the Sultan's arms.

"Forgive me, my lord."
Suleiman held that same twinkle of laughter in his eyes, no hint of annoyance found within them as he made sure the Cariyes was firmly on her feet.

The Sultan let out a small but booming laugh, he found Melekşima Hatun humorous, her face was like a breath of fresh air.

True, he had seen her only twice, but after watching her dance, the way her body told a story that only she was telling- it captivated him for sometime.

"You must dance for me again, Melekşima."
A smile danced upon the girl's face, as she lowered her knees in a bow. "If my Lord wishes it, then it shall be done. I will dance for you whenever you wish."
"Excellent."

The Sultan seemed to want to have a private word with his mother, Melekşima bowed to them both, asking for permission to return to the Harem.

Once alone, Melekşima placed a hand over her still hammering heart, taking a few needed breaths.