Selim took her hands, his grip firm and warm. He didn't offer empty promises of wealth or a miracle. Instead, he looked into her eyes with a fierce, quiet intensity.

Leyla is taken to Istanbul. Years pass. Selim works tirelessly, eventually building a small fleet, driven by the memory of the pier.

The silver moonlight reflected off the rusted hull of the Umut , Selim’s battered fishing boat. They stood on the edge of the pier, the wind whipping Leyla’s hair across her face like a dark veil.

The daughter of a wealthy landowner, destined for a life she didn't choose. Draft Opening