That evening, Ferhat called her into the living room.
She stood at a distance, arms crossed, refusing to appear weak.
"If you're staying here," he said, "there are rules."
"I didn't agree to stay."
"You don't have a choice."
She clenched her jaw but stayed silent.
"Rule one," he continued, "don't leave the house without me."
"I already tried that."
"I know."
"Of course you do," she muttered.
"Rule two: don't interfere in my business."
Asli scoffed. "Trust me, I want nothing to do with your 'business.'"
"Good."
"Rule three?" she challenged.
Ferhat's eyes met hers.
"Don't trust anyone."
The seriousness in his voice made her pause.
"Not even you?" she asked quietly.
A brief silence.
Then—
"Especially not me."
The answer sent a chill through her.
Because it didn't sound like a warning.
It sounded like truth.