Made For Me

Chapter 14

"Congratulations twigs" Fatos says with genuine admiration.

"Allow me to give you a tour of my restaurant 'Canli' (this means alive in Turkish)" I respond eagerly, pulling her away from the kitchen and towards the main floor. I was brimming with excitement as I led her through the restaurant, eagerly showing her my vision and the transformations I've done so far. Then I showed her the menu options and my food ideas to revamp my Mediterranean cuisine.

"Wow, this is amazing!" Her genuine excitement filled me with joy.

"I can't believe all of this is happening!" Tears welled up in my eyes and we both start hopping around like two boy band craze teens. 

"I'm so happy that you are about to start this new chapter!" she cheers. 

This week has been a true test of my patience, but today marks a significant milestone. It's finally here - the grand opening of my restaurant. My nerves are in a frenzy as I prepare to unveil all the hard work and dedication that has gone into this momentous occasion. Im in the kitchen with my hired staff preping the carefully curated menu for the night. For the grand opening, guests will have the option to choose from two appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The limited menu is designed to cater to food bloggers, critics, and editors. It is important that I make a lasting impression today. Today will mark my business and shape my career trajectory.

As I seasoned the grilled branzino in the kitchen, Fatos rushes in excitedly. For the grand opening she has been helping as a waitress. "What do you think?" I inquired, gesturing to the bustling main restaurant floor.

"The food looks really good and the guests are praising the interior design," She remarked.

I loved red booths, the wooden tables, the inviting warm lights, and the intricately lined metal ceilings. Im so happy to have listened to Fatos, and built a glass blocked divider, and added mirrors to make the space look bigger. It was my art deco vision come to life! Sure I have a large debt that I will have to pay for the rest of my life but I believe in this vision... I have a feeling. 

The night was a resounding success. As each table prepared to leave, I made a point to personally greet and express my gratitude to every customer for coming. A well-known food blogger said that she will write about the restaurant this very evening because of her exceptional dining experience, while a popular food TikToker shared a video that garnered an impressive 11k views before the end of the night. And the most rewarding moment came when I learned that customers planned to return to try the full menu. It was a surreal experience, and I found it hard to believe that it was really happening. 

The last customer left and I closed the door, I couldn't contain my excitement. I ran towards Fatos and we both hugged tightly. "You did it!" She cheered, her voice filled with pride. After embracing, I became really serious. It was hard celebrating this day without him in my life. My heart feels empty without him... I wonder if he is thinking of me today? 

----***----

Asuman is hosting her bridal shower at the outdoor terrance of the Four Seasons Hotel. This terrace has some breathtaking views of the city, an infinity pool, and a garden that could put the best botanical gardens to shame. I arrive feeling confident, thanks to Fatos who is a great stylist and has helped me put together an outfit - a red jumpsuit paired with nude mules. I felt absolutely gorgeous because it wasn't over the top and I was true to myself. The best part, the outfit wasn't even one of the pricey items she showed me; she must be out of her mind if she thought I'd go for that $400 Farm Rio dress...How was I going to afford it? 

"I'm so happy Asuman invited you Fatos. It's nice to know that you guys have become great friends." I mention casually while enjoying my cocktail. I'm also thankful to have Fatos with me, I tried every excuse I can think of: Flu, sudden apartment flooding, and religious retreats- in an effort to avoid attending Asuman's bridal shower. Despite my best efforts, nothing seems to work, Asuman was not letting me back out of her bridal shower. After so much back and forth,I finally relented and agreed to attend the shower, but made it clear that I would not go to the wedding. The thought of seeing Ferit again was just too painful to bear.