Phoenix
Part 1: Albatross and New Hope
Location: Istanbul, Karaköy
The wind blowing in from the Bosphorus impatiently tugged at Phoenix’s hair as she stepped into the bustling crowd flowing through the streets of Karaköy.
New life, new chapter… and yet uncertainty still lingered quietly in her heart.
Phoenix (inner thought):
London is the past now… a new life begins here.
But what if my past wants to follow me?
Emma was standing at the airport exit, holding two coffees that were far too large.
Emma:
“Finally! I knew you wouldn’t last long in London’s grey gloom.”
Phoenix:
“It wasn’t the city…”
Emma (with a gentle smile):
“It was your fiancé. But we’ll talk about that later.”
Emma hugged her, and Phoenix felt the old pain slowly melt away in the warmth of her friend’s arms.
Phoenix (inner thought):
I don’t want to think about the past.
Here, in Istanbul, I’m starting over. I have to.
Phoenix’s New Apartment
The apartment was small and filled with sunlight. From the window, the Galata Tower was visible. Phoenix unpacked her kitchen utensils and instinctively set out two plates for dinner.
Emma:
“Please tell me that was an accident.”
Phoenix:
“No… habit. I cooked for two people for years.”
Emma:
“Then cook for me too. Always. I’ll be the second portion.”
Phoenix laughed, realizing that Emma was the only one who truly understood her habits.
Phoenix:
“I’m going out for a walk.”
Emma:
“Alright, but be careful.”
Phoenix:
“I will. Bye.”
Night Walk
The evening shimmered. The lights of restaurants reflected in yellow hues on the cobblestones, while the scents of coffee shops and the sea mingled in the air.
Phoenix (inner thought):
Why do I feel like something… or someone is waiting for me here?
Something bigger than I can carry?
As she turned into a side street, a blinding light suddenly flashed before her.
A car.
Too fast.
Brakes screeching.
A shout.
It stopped at the very last moment.
The car door flew open and a tall man rushed toward her. His voice was deep, slightly hoarse, yet calm.
Albatross:
“Miss, are you alright? You stepped right in front of me!”
Phoenix (breathless):
“I… I’m sorry… but I’m fine.”
Albatross stepped closer, carefully, as if he didn’t want to frighten her.
Albatross:
“No, you’re not fine. Your legs are shaking. Look at yourself.”
Phoenix:
“I was just startled. It’s nothing.”
Albatross:
“We’re going to the hospital. No arguments.”
Phoenix (inner thought):
Who is this man?
Why do I feel like I shouldn’t resist?
The examination was brief. Panic, shock, a minor bruise—nothing serious.
When they came out, Albatross was already there, holding two cups of tea.
Albatross:
“The nurse said you like mint.”
Phoenix:
“How did you know…?”
Albatross:
“I heard you say it. I listen carefully.”
Phoenix smiled shyly, feeling the sense of safety his presence gave her.
Albatross opened the car door for her. The vehicle looked ordinary, slightly worn.
Albatross (inner thought):
She mustn’t know who I am.
No one should look at me as a wallet.
Albatross:
“Where should I take you?”
Phoenix:
“Karaköy… near the tower.”
Albatross:
“Then you chose a good place to start a new life.”
Phoenix:
“What do you mean?”
Albatross (smiling):
“I just… feel it. Istanbul is kind to those who start over.”
Phoenix (inner thought):
His gaze is mysterious, deep… hiding a past of its own.
In Front of the Building
When they arrived, Albatross turned off the engine, got out, and opened Phoenix’s door.
Albatross:
“See? You’re still dizzy.”
Phoenix:
“I’m just tired… really, I’m fine.”
Albatross:
“I’ll come back tomorrow to make sure you’re alright.”
Phoenix:
“You don’t have to… that’s very kind of you.”
Albatross:
“I do have to.” (gently, firmly)
“I won’t leave you alone like this.”
Phoenix stopped. Albatross’s eyes were deep and enigmatic, as if he had been watching over her for a long time.
Phoenix (inner thought):
Why do I feel like I’ve seen this look before… somewhere?
Albatross got back into the car. The engine hummed softly as he drove away.
Phoenix stood in front of her apartment, her heart filled with a strange, warm restlessness.
Phoenix (inner thought):
Something has begun.
Something mysterious… something that changed the air around me.
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