Same, same but different!

Part 16

Ömer pushed himself upright, leaning back against the headboard.

Ömer: (impressed) That’s… incredible. You see? Everything you touch turns beautiful.

She was quiet for a second, his words hanging between them, a little too close, a little too raw.

Kıvılcım: (softly) Don’t exaggerate. But… thank you. I thought you’d want to know before morning.

Ömer: I’m glad you called. Really. My father has been very curious about you... I mean your work. If you have an opening in your schedule tomorrow, let's have a meeting? We could come to Veritas?

Kıvılcım: My schedule is full all day, but if you want we can get together for a lunch meeting?

Ömer: I think it can work for us. I'll let you know in the morning.

He hesitated, running a hand down his face before blurting out:

Ömer: Mavi’s been… mad at me since I picked her up.

Kıvılcım: (surprised) Mad? Why?

Ömer: Because of you.

There was silence, and he could almost picture her brows knitting together, the way she tilted her head slightly when confused.

Kıvılcım: me?

Ömer: Your scent. It lingered in the car after I dropped you off. She noticed immediately. Said it wasn’t fair I got to see you and she didn’t. She’s been pouting ever since.

For a moment, the only sound was her soft, incredulous laugh through the line.

Kıvılcım: (teasing) So your daughter is already taking my side against you. I should be flattered.

Ömer: (smiling despite himself) You should. She’s stubborn, that one. And she doesn't let things go, just like her father.

Her laugh softened into something gentler, and he leaned back again, eyes shutting, letting the sound wash through him.

Kıvılcım: Then you’ll have to make it up to her. Bring her by soon. I’d like to see her too.

Ömer’s throat tightened, emotions tangling... desire, gratitude, and something he was ready to name but know Kıvılcım wasn't ready to hear.

Ömer: (quietly) You will. I promise.

There was another pause, long but not uncomfortable, both of them lingering on the line like neither wanted to hang up first.

Finally, Ömer spoke, voice lower, almost drowsy.

Ömer: You missed me, right?

Kıvılcım: Wouldn't you like to know.

Ömer: I would like to know. Tell me so I can finally be able to sleep.

Ömer said playfully. Kıvılcım took her lower lip between her teeth. She felt this great desire to confess it but didn't really know how to say it. For a minute only their breathing could be heard.

Kıvılcım: I-I miss you, Ömer Ünal.

Ömer started started smiling 32 teeth.

Ömer: I miss you too, Kıvılcım Arslan.

Kıvılcım felt all tingling inside.

Kıvılcım: Goodnight.

Ömer: (softly) Goodnight.

The call ended, but Ömer stayed there, phone still in his hand, heart pounding like he’d just run miles.

Restaurant the following day: