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5. A Sunday Encounter in Istanbul

A Sunny Sunday...

Ellen devoted her Sunday morning to university studies, while her afternoon was reserved for a brisk walk. She believed in staying active rather than idling at home.

After a quick hygiene routine and tying her hair into a ponytail, she brewed tea and savored some fruits. Immersing herself in her studies was her sole goal. With a cup of tea in hand, she settled onto the couch, savoring each sip as she delved into her university lessons, aiming for complete mastery.

Paul woke up with a brunette companion in his bed, a satisfied smile adorning his lips as she peacefully slept. Joining her in the shower, he washed up and brewed a cup of tea afterward.

Stripping and tossing his clothes into the laundry, he planned an after-lunch stroll through one of the forests near Istanbul. Despite being known for enjoying nightlife, Sundays provided him with a serene retreat he deeply appreciated – a side of him that few knew.

Ellen wrapped up her tasks, quickly made a sandwich, and left the apartment. A message to her friend Sarah read: "Heading out for a walk. Dinner tonight – at my place or yours?" She attached an animated photo and tucked the phone into her sweater pocket, entering the elevator with her eyes set on a neighborhood stroll.

After a brief wait, Ellen exited the building, greeting the doorman with a friendly wave. She briskly walked down the street, her gaze alternating between her path and the surroundings. The late afternoon weather in Istanbul was inviting, with a clear sky and gentle sun – a comfortable chill filled the air. Ellen welcomed the breeze on her face, hands tucked into her sweater pockets as she enjoyed the walk.

Paul's post-lunch ritual was a tranquil walk, a weekend tradition he cherished. Despite his reputation as a partygoer, these serene moments remained a secret pleasure. During his jog around the neighborhood, the rhythmic beat of his heart filled him with vitality. As women cast furtive glances, admiring his robust figure, he maintained his pace, returning the smiles with a charming nod.

Just ahead, Ellen moved with calculated steps, the soft hum of her music in her ears. Dancing to her own rhythm, she disregarded the amused looks from passersby at her uninhibited sway. Unconcerned with judgment, she surrendered to the enveloping melody of the music, wrapped in a bubble of happiness.

Their paths crossed when Paul, absorbed in his run, collided with Ellen. He stopped and held onto her shoulders, their eyes meeting. Warmth spread through Ellen's body; it was Paul, the notorious charmer. His warm hand on her shoulder sent a jolt through her, and as their eyes locked, the world seemed to stand still.

Paul stumbled over his words, "Are you okay? I'm sorry..." Ellen straightened up, mustering a small smile, "I'm... I'm fine."

Suppressing her feelings, she adopted a firm posture. She knew she needed to keep both Paul and his brother at arm's length, refusing to let them perceive her vulnerability. Despite her determination, she found herself studying Paul's features, fixating on his strong arms and disheveled charm.

Her response amused Paul, a smile forming as he teased her, "Clumsy, huh? Since we've met, you've stumbled quite a bit – at the party and in the elevator. Now, is it my fault again?" Her laughter spread through her, but Ellen held her ground.

While she found his smile enchanting, she wasn't ready to admit it. Annoyed by his proximity, she declared, "Believe what you want. I'm leaving. There's nothing more to discuss."

With that, Ellen walked away, her frustration propelling her into a run in an attempt to distance herself. She decided to retreat to her room and avoid further encounters. In her wake, Paul watched her disappear, shaking his head incredulously, amused by her fiery nature.

As the day unfolded, Paul redirected his walk, reflecting on the brief yet intriguing encounter. There was something about her, a fiery spirit that captivated him. He admitted to himself, "She's complicated, but there's something unique about her."

In the end, both Ellen and Paul retreated to their respective spaces, the energy of their brief encounter lingering in the air.

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