Chapter One — Departure

I wake to cool light and absence. The space beside me is empty; only the dent in the pillow remains.

On the dresser, a folded sheet in Asdar’s slanted hand:

Where eyes don’t see, the heart will be ominously aware.

A sigh escapes. I fold the note and stick it on the dresser, letting my fingers linger a moment where Asdar’s words rest.

The phone vibrates.

Mrs H: Cab in 25. Heathrow. Wheels up.

Hasna Benhali: Karim will be your sentinel again.

Then, in my inbox—Marina, subject line urgent:

Rubia, when are we getting high?

I huff a small laugh. With Nina, it’s a lifelong friendship: built on love, respect, and just enough mischief to keep us honest.

The flat is cold as I move through it: shower, black trousers, black turtleneck, a scarf knotted without thought. The bag is already half-packed—cyphers, chargers, a pair of shoes fit for running in any needed direction.

By the time the cab’s headlights sweep the street, I’m at the window. One last glance at the tangled bed, then I slip Asdar’s note into my jacket, pressing it close before leaving the room that smells faintly of last night. The door shuts behind me with the soft finality of habit.

Heathrow is a tide: jet fuel sharp in the air, announcements swelling overhead, arrivals and departures blinking out destinations. I keep my phone on silent, scanning the lounge like a map—faces benign, hurried, dangerous in different lights.

Scribbles in my notebook:

Last time, I came home to this city from a cave, the time before that a desert, chasing truths I half-believed. Today I carry debts, promises, and the edges of broken trust.

Boarding is called. Rising, adjusting my scarf, and walking down the jet bridge with the quiet assurance of someone on duty, not on holiday.

Behind me: London, Mrs H’s orders, (how did that happen? I am the fucking boss!) Roger’s shadow, Marina’s laugh, and the ghost of Asdar’s arms.

Ahead: Istanbul, where politics, danger, and he who still makes my heart skip a beat will meet me at the gate.

I.Ph.

Today, chapter 3, Book I, published on ko-fi.com/phaedrasfables86481