I sit calmly, the table before me filled with a luxurious dinner. The restaurant glows under warm lights, crystal chandeliers reflecting softly against polished surfaces. Across from me, Deniz sits stiffly, shoulders tense, eyes lowered—still nervous, still careful.
My gaze drifts to the food.
Steaming beef steak. Side dishes I don't even know the names of. Everything placed here just for me.
For a moment, my chest tightens.
In my real life, dinner was never like this. Every day was work—endless, exhausting work—just to survive.
Meat was something I planned for once a month, something I dreamed of and then crossed out again when rent, tuition, and bills piled higher than hope. Every month, I failed to save enough. Every month, I told myself next time.
And now…
All of this sits in front of me without effort.
I stare at the food, then shake my head gently, pulling myself back to the present. That life is over—for now.
I lift my gaze to Deniz and smile softly.
"Let's eat."
