Dropping Her Off

KNIGHT

The rest of the ride was spent in silence. Indeed, it did take us a long time to get to Alana's apartment. There was a diabolical traffic-jam—for reasons us Turkish citizens would never know.

Perhaps it could be blamed on the fact that this part of town was the hub of trade, residence, high-class restaurants and of course, luxurious hotels. Not to forget, the seaside area and shopping malls.

If someone were to ask me what my favourite thing out of all of those was, I'd say the sea. It was so serene, especially in the springtime. God, how long had it been since I'd been there?

"You're so quiet," Since she hadn't spoken for so long, her voice came out all croaky and brittle.

"I like to keep to myself,"

A snigger. "No shit, sherlock,"

I sent a glare her way, eyes narrowed. "Watch your language,"

"Hm, let's see," From my peripheral, I saw her poke a finger into her chin as if in deep thought. I prepared myself for a rant. "First, he tries to control my wardrobe. Then, it's my language. Allah Korusun," she switched to the Turkish version of 'God forbid' and it made me incalculably amused. "I wonder what would be next."

"Your clothes seem just fine right now," I wanted to slap myself as soon as the words landed out of my mouth.

A pause. A cough. "Glad you noticed,"

Gritting my teeth, I resumed to not meeting her gaze. She was wearing pink sweats and that lab coat that thankfully covered her, otherwise, I would have to worry about other men looking.

"We're here," I announced as we rounded a corner, entering into a wide alley.

"The apartment is here?" I saw her face me, worry gnawing at her. "Are you sure it's paid-for by the—"

"Yes, Alana," I couldn't help the dry tone. "When we give internship opportunities, it's upon us to provide residence as well. Now please stop talking and go check your apartment."

"Wait, it's this street? Burak, no! I know you guys provide the interns but even I'm not stupid enough to think this is where they reside." Suspicion glinted in her eyes and I almost squirmed. Almost.

Fine. I had personally ensured she lived in a safe neighbourhood. Was it wrong of me? Not at all. Yes, I had to pay a couple more bucks but that wasn't a problem for me.

"Stop scrutinising me," Out of pure habit, I brushed back the errant strands of my hair from my eyes.

The woman on Google Maps was—like always—making me want to throttle her. As per her instructions, we stopped by the lavish crystal building in what was known as one of the hottest neighbourhoods in Istanbul.

Alana played with her hands again as our eyes met. Don't get me wrong, I just couldn't—for the life of me—look at her square in the eye again. After the intensity that had both of us reeling, I would be insane to do so. Still, I rested my gaze on her forehead otherwise it would've been awkward.

"I don't know how to say thank you," she started. I immediately put up a hand for her stop. She didn't have to thank me at all. Truthfully, I would sleep better at night knowing she was safe. "There honestly aren't words to express the gratitude I feel towards you."

I only inclined my head as a flush crept up my neck. "Stop with the emotional speech and go, lady. We've got work tomorrow."

"Oh, yeah, before I forget!" She fished around her bag and I groaned, already knowing what was coming. "Here are some pictures of the dates—"

"Alana—"

"—and you should select one to meet with tomorrow."

I did not one bit like the fake smile plastered over her face.

"No way," I bit out. "Next week is still fine by me but not at all tomorrow."

"Your father wants to rush the process," she argued, swinging her bag over her shoulder as she prepared to leave. "At this rate, you'll be married come Sunday." And the vixen laughed at my misery, though I detected something strange behind the strong front she had put up.

"You can't force me," I muttered like a schoolboy.

"Oh, you're right, I can't," she smirked. "But your father can."

I closed my eyes on an exhale.