Our Love....After Forgiveness

Chapter Twelve

After the trying day they had, Can thought it fitting to go to the mountain cabin, cook on the open fire and lay under the stars. Alone, just the two of them, with no other distractions. It would recharge them, and allow them to except the changes that was happening in their lives. He called Mevkibe and ask permission to whisk their daughter away for the evening, explaining to her the events of the day and how Sanem was feeling. Of course Ms Mevkibe understood, she couldn't deny Can, she had such a tender spot for him in her heart. She wondered how a mother could possibly leave a child behind, and never contact him for so many years. It caused her great pain for him, and she would do anything for him.

The evening was perfect, cool enough for a fire, just right for snuggling. She talked about the writers forum, and how excited she was to have been invited. It was an author's dream to be included in such a program. From what she understood there would be authors from all genres there. Then the book signing, that was just icing on the cake, she was so glad to return to the same book store. Can listened intently, so proud yet so sad, she had such ambition, and drive, it would be hard to hold her back. He remembered that same feeling, when he had started his photography business. He couldn't get enough, but now it seems his priority has changed. Though he still loves his photography, it's her that he can't get enough of.  But he remains a strong supporter and he always would. They discussed all their plans, how long she would deem it necessary to go away on the book tours, how many writers forums she would feel destined to go too. All these things that would rule how they lived their lives. When would they start their family, and they both wanted a big family, so the timing had to be right. Can was along for the ride, and what a ride it would be. This lovely and special woman had captured him and made his life a wonderful thing. 

The time was late before they knew it, and she needed to go home. That time again, that time he hated. Tomorrow he would talk to her dad, and the engagement would be set. Then the photo shoot later in the week, it was going to be a packed week. He hoped there wouldn't be any other distractions from Polen or her sleazy brother, that would be all they needed. He dropped her off in front of her house and then drove home, tired and ready for a good nights sleep. But this would not be the case...He had know longer made it inside, before there was a knock on his door. Knowing Emre and Leila where out for the evening, he expected that Emre had forgotten his key. He opened the door to find Polen staring back at him. Surprised, he squinted his eyes and said, " Polen, excuse me, but what are you doing here?  We said all there was to say today In my office."  She boldly pushed past him and made her way to the living room. Can was in shock, this woman is getting on my last nerve, he thought. She immediately took off her jacket and sat down, looking at him as if waiting for an explanation. She asked in a very serious tone, " What was Sanem doing at the agency today, I thought you two were spilt up." She went off to Greece and you went to the Balkan Mountains." What happened Can, did she come crying back to Istanbul as soon as you got home. "  Her voice took on a high pitched squeal, " Can, are you going to answer me."  He was stunned, finally saying, " I owe you nothing Polen, and certainly not an explanation of my private life." Why would you think I did anyway." We were over long before I even said it was over."  Polen walked over to the bar and poured herself a drink, she turned to Can, " So that night in London, when you came back from your photo shoot, why didn't you tell me then it was over? " I waited for you at my apartment,"  what was I to think."   You left her and took the job I got you, I thought, to be with me. Can swung around, staring her in the eyes, " That you got me. Are you sure about that Polen. My talent and ability got me that job, not you. There's really nothing to talk about, you need to leave."  He ordered, motioning toward the door.

Polen positioned herself on the sofa, and sipped on her drink. Can was exhausted and ready for bed, but getting to leave was quite impossible. He sighed, then politely said, " Polen, our relationship was over long ago, please don't make yourself look pathetic by holding on to a empty future. " She smiled, " Can my future is with you, and Sanem will be the one alone, that is if you want to ever have a photography career again. I have a lot of contacts in that circle and it would only take a couple of phone calls and a bad review to cause you to lose face. With the episode that has already happened in your career, another incident could be too much. I will let you think about it for a while, who can benefit you more, Sanem or myself. Can's anger was surrendering to his better judgement, the volcano was about to erupt, went Emre and Leila walked in the door. Polen quickly changed her demeanor and stood to leave. She briefly acknowledged Emre, but said nothing to Leila. She looked at Can, saying again for him to think about what she had said. She nodded as she walked out the door. 

Emre and Leila both questioned Can, but he was to angry to explain. So many thoughts running through his mind, was this new client just another ploy in her bag of tricks, to make him dependent on her. Emre was confused as to the purpose of her actions, she would ruin his career just for the sake of having Can. And what about Sanem, how far would she go, could she possibly run Sanem away. Can rants were not making any sense and Leila was concerned for her sister.  He hoped she would leave, return to London and leave them alone. It took a while for Can to calm down, and be able to think logically. He was pretty sure the new client was not working under Polen's direction. Emre suggested they continue as if nothing happened. 

Can stated, " Well I  going to talk to Nihat tomorrow, and ask for permission to marry Sanem. Then set our engagement date, all before she's to leave in a couple of weeks. 

I won't let Polen cause a scene"..............

I told Sanem, I wouldn't let anything or anyone come between"...and I meant that......