Blink Twice - Amelia Sultan ✔

Shezade...?

"What do you mean I'm going to Şehzade Mehmet tonight?" I demanded, my voice laced with disbelief. The idea was shocking—me, going to Şehzade Mehmet's chambers, just like that? No formal introduction, no prior meetings, nothing. I hadn't even seen him before, not in person at least. The only description I had of him came from Sultana Mihrimah, but even her words weren't enough to paint a full picture. I needed to see him with my own eyes, to know what he looked like, to get some real, undeniable proof.

I stared at Nigar Kalfa, hoping for some explanation, but she only shook her head, laughing at my distress.

"Oh, you English are so funny," she said, her smile wide and amused.

I wrinkled my nose in response, feeling both confused and slightly irritated by her lighthearted reaction to my predicament.

"Well, you're not married yet, nor are you officially a concubine, so don't worry," she continued, waving off my concerns as if they were trivial. "I'm pretty sure this is just the formal introduction you've been hoping for."

I stared at her in disbelief. Was she reading my mind? There was no way she could know that I had been hoping for something a little more traditional—a formal introduction, something with structure and decorum. This was the Ottoman Empire, after all, a place of elegance and grandeur. Surely, there were protocols for meeting the man I was betrothed to, the future Sultan of the empire.

Before I could respond, Mera Kalfa, another attendant, entered the room with a warm smile, holding up two outfits.

"Nonetheless, you should still look your best, Princess," she said, her voice firm but kind. She displayed the first option: a delicate white-lace kaftan, simple yet stunning.

 The second option was more striking—a deep red velvet kaftan trimmed with intricate gold lace.

I ran my hands over both fabrics, marveling at their richness. These clothes were different from what I wore back in England, yet they didn't feel foreign or barbaric as I had once feared Ottoman attire might. In fact, they were beautiful, luxurious, and perfect for the occasion. I was immediately drawn to the white kaftan—it had an understated elegance, a beauty that didn't scream for attention. But after a moment of contemplation, I decided to go with the red one. It was bold, regal, and more fitting for a princess of my stature. It showcased my class and status, something I wanted to subtly assert tonight.

After slipping into the red velvet kaftan, I paired it with a delicate gold tiara that matched its embroidery. My heels were a soft pink, and a lady-in-waiting styled my hair back in an intricate yet elegant fashion. As I stared at my reflection in the mirror, I felt a surge of confidence wash over me. The transformation was complete—I looked every bit the part of an Ottoman princess. Satisfied with the image staring back at me, I took a deep breath, knowing the night ahead would be momentous.

Just then, Sümbül Agha, a eunuch known for his lively personality, entered my quarters. Upon seeing me, he clapped his hands in sheer delight.

"MashAllah! What a beauty! The Şehzade will most certainly be delighted to meet you!" he exclaimed, his joy contagious.

I felt my cheeks flush at his praise, but his words also comforted me. I had no idea what to expect from Şehzade Mehmet, but at least I felt assured in my appearance. I was as ready as I could be.

"And so will I, InshAllah," I whispered to myself, hoping everything would go smoothly. There was no turning back now.

Sümbül Agha took my hand gently and began leading me out of the room. As we walked through the corridors, I quickly waved goodbye to the kind ladies who had helped prepare me for the evening. Their smiles and encouraging nods did little to calm the fluttering in my chest, but I was grateful for their support nonetheless.

As we approached a well-lit hallway, I noticed Sümbül Agha slowing down. Finally, he stopped in front of a grand door, the entrance to Şehzade Mehmet's chambers. He released my hand and stepped back, giving me a gentle nod.

"It's all you now, Princess," he said softly, his eyes kind but knowing. He understood the significance of this moment, even if his demeanor was lighthearted earlier.

I took a deep breath, straightening my posture and reminding myself of who I was. I was a princess of England, betrothed to the Ottoman heir, Şehzade Mehmet, His Highness. I could do this. I had to do this. With one final breath, I held my chin high and stepped forward.

As I approached the grand doors, they opened smoothly, revealing the Şehzade's chambers in all their glory. The room was bathed in a warm golden glow from the candlelight, and the scent of rosewater lingered faintly in the air. My heart pounded in my chest as I walked further inside, my eyes scanning the room nervously.

Then, I saw him. Şehzade Mehmet.

He turned around to face me, and in that instant, I froze. Whatever I had imagined him to look like, the reality far surpassed my expectations. He was, without a doubt, the most gorgeous man I had ever seen. His dark hair framed a face that was both regal and striking, his sharp features softened by the warmth in his eyes. His gaze was intense, yet there was a quiet kindness beneath it, something that made my heart skip a beat.

For a moment, I stood there, completely still, staring at him in awe. He was taller than I had expected, his presence commanding but not overwhelming. I could feel my cheeks growing warm, and I quickly reminded myself to maintain my composure. I was here for a reason, after all. This was the man I was destined to marry, the future Sultan of the empire.

He smiled, a slow, genuine smile that reached his eyes, and took a step toward me. My breath caught in my throat. This was it—the beginning of something new, something I could hardly begin to comprehend.

And as I stood there, feeling both excited and terrified, I knew that my life would never be the same again.

--------------------------

A/n #1: I'm sorry it's such a short chapter, but I kinda wanted some suspense for now :) Next chapter in progress! Don't forget to check out my Muhtesem Yuzyil Imagines, which as of 3/16/24 has over 200 views!!!! Please like, share, and follow!!!

A/n #2: I finally edited this chapter to be more than 1k words, and it is a LOT better now. I hope you enjoy!