Chapter 163

Ayleen stood at the grand porch of Khan villa, the crisp evening air carrying the quiet murmurs of farewell. The sky was a soft shade of lilac, the setting sun casting golden hues on the marble steps as she bid goodbye to each family member. Uncle Ibrahim stood closest to her, his warm eyes laced with concern.

“Take care of yourself, beti,” he said, placing a gentle hand on her head in blessing.

Ayleen nodded with a small smile.

From the corner of her eye, she could see Murat. He was standing apart from everyone, leaning against the pillar with his arms crossed, his gaze fixed on the ground as if unwilling to witness this moment. The tension in his shoulders was visible, his usual commanding presence dimmed into silence.

She wanted to look at him, to hold his gaze one last time before leaving, but she resisted. He hadn’t spoken much since their conversation the night before. His quiet desperation had lingered in the air long after she had walked away, this wa