Hello, Kenzo

On A Snowy Day in Istanbul

Four years later, as the cold winter wind blew through the streets, I found myself reminiscing about the day I first arrived in the city of Istanbul, overwhelmed by its vibrant energy and rich history. The bustling markets, the enchanting architecture, and the warm hospitality of its people left an indelible mark on my heart. As I walked down the familiar cobblestone streets, I couldn't help but marvel at how much I had grown since that day, both as a person and in my understanding of this captivating city.

"Oh no, there she goes again." Narih's voice rang out from behind me, interrupting my thoughts. I turned around to see my cousin with a playful smile on her face. "It's been four years, Stella. Don't just stop any moment and stare blankly at nothing for minutes; it's starting to frighten me. Now move; the party is not going to wait for us, and you won't want to miss this or we won't be eating for three days! Move, girl!" she teased, nudging me gently.

"Oh, stop with that, Narih!" I laughed and shrugged, closing the doors of our mid-sized range travel van after carefully placing the breads and cupcakes we had baked for the whole day. Narih was out of work to help me out with my small café business after being called to cater in a contract signing for her company.

Her boss asked her to set up the party, and she was kind enough to set me up so that I could slowly introduce my bread and cake to a larger group of people.

After Japan, we managed to settle in Turkey and live the life we had always wanted. It was simple, yet fulfilling. We had found a sense of peace and contentment in the beautiful city, surrounded by friendly neighbors and breathtaking landscapes. Our days were filled with laughter, exploration, and delicious Turkish cuisine. Life had truly become a dream come true for us in this charming little corner of the world. Father didn't take time to adjust, he just fell in love at first sight and people loved his breads.

I have come a long way since then, both personally and professionally. The once unfamiliar place had become my home, filled with memories of triumphs and challenges. I tried to apply for teaching, but I did not continue as my heart would not heal from the memories if I did so.

"Ok, let's do this!" Narih cheered as we drove to the venue.

It was a short drive away, and we entered the back part of the venue, where the bustling sounds of preparation filled the air. The excitement was palpable as we set up our equipment and got ready for the event. As the crowd started to gather, I couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline in the dimly lit hall, decorated with colorful banners and fairy lights. The atmosphere was electric, and I knew that this event was going to be something special. Narih and I exchanged excited glances, ready to give it our all and create unforgettable memories for everyone in attendance.

By the time we finished arranging the breads and cupcakes, men in suits and women in elegant dresses began to fill the hall, adding an air of sophistication to the already vibrant atmosphere. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the room as people mingled and admired the beautifully decorated tables. It was clear that this event had attracted a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, all eager to indulge in the delicious treats we had prepared.

"Ok, I'll leave you here, Tim's coming with the other cakes and good luck," Narih gave me a quick peck before rushing to her coworkers, working her magic in the buzzing crowd.

I watched as Narih seamlessly navigated through the sea of guests, her infectious smile and warm personality drawing people toward her. It was her charm that got us through all this.

The program started, and I sat behind the counter to check on my reserved tickets for tomorrow's flight. I was very disappointed to find out that the schedule would be delayed for two days as a snowstorm was expected to hit the area before midnight.

I told Dad immediately that we could not get home, and he assured me that everything would be alright. He suggested that we find a nearby hotel to stay at until the storm passed. Relieved to have a solution, I thanked him and began searching for available accommodations.

After browsing through several hotel websites, I finally found a nearby one that had availability for the next two nights. I quickly booked a room and let out a sigh of relief. With our accommodation sorted, I turned my attention back to the party because, in no time, the guests would be eating.

"Hey, you heard?" Tim came with two big boxes of reserved cakes just in case we ran out of desserts.

"Heard what?" I asked, curious about the news.

Tim grinned and said, "The owner of the building Narih's company set to build is from the Philippines."

"And?" I tried to answer nonchalantly, trying to act as normal as possible and look less affected by anything about the Philippines.

This couple did nothing but torture me for the last four years—anything at any time that would remind me of Kenzo.

"Well, I just thought you might want to prepare when you get surprised," he added, raising an eyebrow. "You know, in case you bump into someone or something." I felt a sudden pang of anxiety at the thought of running into Kenzo again, but I tried to hide it behind a forced smile.

"Stop it! Ok. Anyways, flights are delayed. A snowstorm is coming, and I have made reservations already!" I exclaimed, trying to change the subject and divert the conversation away from Kenzo.

"Ok," he smiled and helped me unpack some of the cakes to the trays below the counter.

It didn't take long for guests to come and crowd the different foods lined up on the display.

I opted out of looking at the people in their faces while I served them bread and cakes based on their choices as I tried to keep up with the increasing demand.

"Enjoy," I said with a warm smile, hoping that the guests would appreciate the effort put into each delicious treat. As the evening progressed, the atmosphere became livelier, filled with laughter and satisfied murmurs from the satisfied customers.

"Twenty more minutes; we can pack!" Narih went, removing her heels and kissing Tim like she hadn't seen him in years.

"I reserved a hotel already as we let the snowstorm pass," I sarcastically interrupted their kiss.

They chuckled, and before we knew it, we were checking into the hotel. I made a reservation.

"Let's get some drink?" I tried to suggest, pointing towards the hotel bar, but Narih snapped at me.

"Ahm, we need to get warm, you know, alcohol won't get us through this snowstorm. I suggest you go find something to keep you warm too. It's been four years, make that thing work again, Stella! I love you. We all did a good job tonight!" Narih exclaimed, wrapping her arms around me in a tight hug and closing the door in front of me.

"I'm sorry, Stella! I missed Narih tonight!" Tim apologized, but his face showed too much lust already!

"I HATE YOU TWO!!!! Drown with all your semen!" I shouted angrily, storming off to the bar angrily.

As I entered the warm and cozy bar, the sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air. The dimly lit room provided a comforting escape from the bitter cold outside. I found solace in the familiar scent of alcohol and the friendly chatter of the patrons. Taking a seat at the bar, I signaled the bartender for a drink, hoping it would help numb the pain and anger that still lingered within me for four years, yearning for Kenzo.

The bartender, a burly man with a friendly smile, approached me and asked what I would like. I ordered a whiskey, feeling the burn of anticipation as he poured it into a glass. As I took my first sip, the familiar warmth spread through my body, momentarily easing the ache in my heart. I glanced around the bar, observing the diverse crowd that had gathered here tonight. Couples engaged in hushed conversations, friends sharing laughter, and lone individuals seeking solace like me. Lost in my thoughts, I couldn't help but wonder if any of them were also nursing their hidden wounds, the secret pains that they carried with them.

"One more!" I called out to the bartender, feeling the need to numb my emotions a little further. As the bartender poured another drink, I couldn't help but hope that this temporary escape would grant me a few moments of peace. Sipping on my second glass, I couldn't shake the feeling that this bar was a sanctuary for broken souls, a place where we could all silently share our burdens without judgment.

The second glass was gone quickly and the third and the fourth until I could no longer feel the cold. "Merhaba," a male voice greeted me from the adjacent stool, snapping me out of my trance. Turning to face him, I noticed the weariness in his eyes, mirroring my own. We exchanged a knowing smile, understanding that we were both seeking solace in this dimly lit refuge.