Made For Me

Chapter 19

"The ring is absolutely stunning, truly one of a kind. It suits you perfectly, Nazli," Zeynep remarks, admiring my ring.

"Knowing Ferit, I'm sure he wanted something extravagant. I'm happy he took into consideration my simple style," I giggle, and Zeynep nods in agreement.

Silence falls over as everyone freezes. Ms. Leman stands at the entrance with a stoic expression. As Ferit approaches her, I hurry to join them. Just as I reach them, I hear Ferit quietly mutter to his mother, "What are you doing here?" I interject before Ms. Leman responds, "I invited her. She's your mother, and it's important for her to be here."

I watched as Ferit's lips tightened into a thin line, his expression a mask of restrained anger. "Just so you know Mother. You're here because of her, the person you've humiliated. I would have been fine without you here," he seethed.

"Please, Ferit," I implored. "Let's just try to enjoy the night. Thank you for accepting my invitation, Ms. Leman," I added, attempting to diffuse the tension.

"Thank you for inviting me," Ms. Leman replied, her words laced with a hint of emotion that she quickly blinked back, trying to conceal her true feelings. I pulled Ferit away from his mother, I didn't try to push either of them. It was a big accomplishment that she is here. 

The evening unfolded with guests enjoying the food I've prepared. Seated around the elegantly set table in the intimate space, Ferit rose to his feet, a glass clutched in one hand and a spoon chiming against it. "Dear family, thank you all for joining us tonight to celebrate our engagement. It's a pity that the media beat us to it... we wanted to surprise you all," he began, a smile playing on his lips. Laughter bubbled up from our family and friends as Ferit continued, his gaze tenderly fixed on me. "Just a few days ago, this beautiful woman said 'yes' to me. She is someone who I can't imagine my life without. Let us raise our glasses in honor of my radiant fiancée, a toast to you, Nazli, and to the love story that lies ahead of us."

I stand up with tears in my eyes and kiss him passionately in front of everyone. "I love you with all my heart and I promise to make you happy." I whisper in his ear. 

Everyone claps and I'm sure I heard some whoop whoop from Engin. 

Later in the night as we are enjoying the cocktails and dancing to some good American pop music, I hear Zeynep gasp next to me. "What's wrong?" I was met with a somber apology from her. She handed me her phone, revealing an Instagram post that sent a chill down my spine. The caption read, "Look who came from an orphanage and is the offspring of a corrupted cop," with a picture of my face.

With determination, I took Zeynep's phone and made my way to Ms. Leman. Leading her to my office, I show her the post. "I may not fit the image of the woman you envisioned for your son, but I am a good person. I have endured everything you have thrown my way and you have crossed a line trying to ruin your child happiness. What kind of mother stoops so low?" I addressed her in a hushed tone, filled with disappointment.

"Nazli, I swear, it wasn't me. I've come to terms with Ferit's decision. Seeing my son, turn away from me was a wake-up call. Please believe me." She grabbed my hand preventing me from walking away. This was the first time Ms. Leman has ever touched me. 

Ferit burst into the office, his voice filled with anger. "I can't believe this, Mother. Get out of here," he growled. 

"No Ferit stop. I-I hope I'm not wrong but I believe her" I interjected, pushing him back gently and soothingly running my hands over his arms. 

"Please, son, trust me—"Ms. Leman pleads. 

"Then who did it?" he interrupted sharply. 

"I believe it was Hakan," she admitted, looking down at her feet. 

"No way," Ferit scoffed. 

"I asked him to put me in touch with a private investigator, and I suspect he may have been privy to the findings," Ms. Leman confessed shamelessly.