That night, Ferhat prepared to leave.
"Asli, stay inside. Don't open the door for anyone."
"Where are you going?"
"Work."
"That's not an answer."
"It's the only one you'll get."
She stepped closer. "It's dangerous, isn't it?"
A pause.
Then—
"Yes."
Her chest tightened. "Then don't go."
The words surprised both of them.
Ferhat studied her.
"Since when do you care?"
She hesitated.
"I… don't want more blood on your hands."
A lie.
Or at least… not the full truth.
He saw through it.
But didn't push.
"I'll be back," he said.
And for the first time…
She hoped he meant it.