Twenty-Two (eBook)

Chapter 1:
MYSTERIOUS MEETING
WITH A STRANGER

DIANE

Central Park, for Diane, was like a soothing escape from the busy city. On weekends, she headed there to find a break from her work, which wasn’t exactly her favourite thing. The park’s peaceful ponds and walking paths provided a calm oasis.

She loved wandering beneath the trees, feeling the soft sunlight on her skin. Feeding the ducks at the pond felt like a friendly ritual, their quacks a comforting chorus. Amid the park’s embrace, she let go of work worries and found a sense of peace.

In Diane’s eyes, Central Park was a gentle reminder that even in the middle of city life, there was a simple kind of beauty that could heal the heart. Her favourite coffee kiosk in Central Park was a charming little spot nestled among the trees. It had always been her go-to for a steaming cup of solace. This time, as she approached, she noticed a new face behind the counter, a man with Ilarion on his nametag.

The kiosk itself was a cozy nook, painted in cheerful shades of green, and adorned with potted flowers that added a touch of natural beauty. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped the area, inviting her in like an old friend.

Ilarion, with a warm smile, greeted her as if they’d known each other for years. The sun dappled through the leaves, casting a gentle glow on the counter where he prepared her coffee. It was a simple moment, yet it felt like a small, unexpected connection amidst the city’s bustling backdrop.

As Diane sipped her coffee, she couldn’t help but feel that this kiosk, with its new friendly face, had become an even more special part of her Central Park sanctuary.

Ilarion: (in a hushed tone, leaning closer) Good morning, Diane. You’ve always had a knack for choosing the perfect coffee.

Diane: (a bit surprised, reading his name written on a nametag) Thank you, Ilarion. It’s my little ritual in the park. But why do you say it like that? And how do you know my name?

Ilarion: (smiling mysteriously) Well, Diane, how would you feel about adding a touch of mystery to your routine?

Diane: (intrigued) Mystery? What do you have in mind?

Ilarion: (leaning in a bit more) There’s a life-changing lottery circulating here in the park, a lottery with a secret prize. It’s unlike any other, and it’s been making waves lately. All it takes is your name and email address on this coupon, and you’re in.

Diane: (curious) A secret prize, you say? That does sound intriguing. But what’s the catch?

Ilarion: (smiling) Ah, the catch is that it’s a surprise, Diane. But trust me, it’s something extraordinary.

Diane: (considering it) Well, you’ve certainly piqued my curiosity, Ilarion. Alright, let’s add a little mystery to my day. (She takes the coupon and starts filling it out.) There you go.

Ilarion: (collecting the coupon) Perfect. You won’t regret it, Diane. Who knows, this might lead to an adventure you’ll never forget.

Diane: (grinning) Well, I’ll be sure to keep an eye out for that. Thanks, Ilarion. See you tomorrow!

Ilarion: (waving) See you, Diane. Enjoy your day, and may the mystery unfold in your favour!

LIAM

After the fall from his bike, Liam awoke to find himself in the hospital. As he slowly opened his eyes, they fixated on the stark, sterile walls that surrounded him. At that moment, a flood of memories from the past came rushing back to him. It wasn’t the first time he had found himself in a hospital room, but this time was different. The last time he had been in a place like this, it had been a nightmarish experience.

His mind travelled back to that fateful night when he was just a teenager. He had been in another hospital, one much darker and somber. It was the night his parents had died in a tragic car accident. The memory of their lifeless faces, the cold, antiseptic smell of the hospital, and the overwhelming sense of loss still haunted him.

A sense of déjà vu enveloped him. The memories of that tragic night clashed with the present. The hospital walls, the beeping machines, and the scent of disinfectant triggered a flood of emotions.

He couldn’t help but wonder if his parents were watching over him from somewhere beyond. The accident had spared him, and as he lay there, he made a silent promise to himself and them. He vowed to make the most of this second chance at life, to confront his demons, and to find a way out of the self-destructive path he had been on.

In that hospital room, surrounded by the echoes of his past and the uncertainty of his future, Liam felt a glimmer of hope. It was a chance for redemption, a chance to break free from the shadows of his past and embrace the possibilities of the present. The hospital walls, once a reminder of tragedy, now represented a fresh start, a clean slate, and a newfound determination to live life differently. He was taken by his wondering thoughts so deeply that didn’t notice that he wasn’t alone.

Liam: What happened?

Ilarion: (turning to face Liam, with a reassuring smile) You had a bit of a tumble, Liam. You’re in the hospital. Don’t worry; you’re going to be just fine.

Liam: (still disoriented) Where’s my bike?

Ilarion: (gentle) Your bike is safe, Liam. You had an accident while riding it. It’s a good thing you’re here, getting checked out.

Liam: (starting to remember) Yeah, I remember now... too much Scotch.

Ilarion: (nodding) These things happen, Liam. The important thing is that you’re on the mend.

Liam: (concerned) My aunt! She’s going to kill me. She’s been taking care of me since...

Ilarion: (comforting) Your aunt is in the corridor, Liam. She’s worried about you, but she’s relieved you’re okay. I’ll go and reassure her in a moment.

Liam: (grateful) Thanks, Ilarion. You’re a real lifesaver.

Ilarion: (smiling) Speaking of lifesavers, there’s something I’d like to tell you about, Liam. We’re running a unique lottery here at the clinic, something extraordinary. All it takes is your email address and name on this coupon, and you’re in.

Liam: (curious) A lottery at the clinic? What’s the catch?

Ilarion: (mysterious) The catch, my friend, is that it’s a mystery. But believe me, it’s a chance worth taking.

Liam: (smirking) Well, after surviving this, I’m up for a little mystery. (He fills out the coupon with his email and name.)

Ilarion: (collecting the coupon) That’s the spirit, Liam. You never know where a little mystery might lead you. Now, I’ll go reassure your aunt, and you focus on getting better.

Liam: (grinning) Thanks again, Ilarion. You’ve been a true mystery man today.

Ilarion: (winking) My pleasure, Liam. May the mystery bring you some unexpected joy.

KIRAZ

Kiraz took a delicate sip from her cup of Turkish tea, savouring the rich, earthy aroma that wafted up from the amber-coloured brew. As the tea warmed her, she couldn’t help but reflect on the rich history and vibrant culture that she was about to share with her eager group of tourists. With a sense of anticipation and a twinkle in her eye, she left the café, ready to guide her guests through the enchanting streets of Istanbul.

Kiraz: (with a warm smile, addressing the group) Good morning, everyone! I’m Kiraz, your guide for today’s adventure through the heart of Istanbul. I see we have visitors from all around the world, which is truly wonderful. Now, let’s get started, shall we?

Tourist 1: (eager) Kiraz, can you tell us a bit about the history of this magnificent city?

Kiraz: (enthusiastic) Absolutely! Istanbul, once known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is a city steeped in history. It’s the only city in the world that spans two continents, Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosporus Strait. Today, we’ll explore some of its most iconic landmarks, starting with Dolmabahçe Palace.

Tourist 2: (curious) Dolmabahçe Palace? I’ve heard it’s quite impressive.

Kiraz: (nodding) Indeed, it is. Dolmabahçe Palace is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. It was built in the mid-19th century and served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire during its later years. The palace is a stunning blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman architectural styles. But here’s a little story about it:

Kiraz: (continuing) Legend has it that when the construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began, the Ottoman treasury was already strained. To fund the palace, the sultan imposed heavy taxes on the citizens, leading to widespread discontent. However, the treasury miraculously received an anonymous donation, a massive amount of gold coins, that was used to complete the palace. To this day, the identity of the generous donor remains a mystery.

Tourist 3: (impressed) What a fascinating tale! So, what are we going to see at Dolmabahçe Palace today?

Kiraz: (enthusiastic) We’ll explore the grand halls adorned with crystal chandeliers, intricate carpets, and opulent furnishings. The highlight is the Crystal Staircase, a breathtaking piece of craftsmanship. Unfortunately, no photography is allowed inside, but the memories will stay with you forever.

Tourist 4: (excited) That sounds amazing! Let’s go explore it.

Kiraz: (leading the way) Great! Follow me, and let’s uncover the wonders of Dolmabahçe Palace together.

Tourist 5 (Ilarion): (leaning in, a friendly smile) Kiraz, your tales...