Chapter Nine

Baran

After finishing breakfast, they made their way to the shelter. The air was crisp, and the city was alive with the bustle of a new day. At Rainbow Haven boxes of decorations awaited them. The shelter was a hive of activity, with residents and staff alike eager to transform the space for the holidays.

Miss Archer met them when they walked inside.

“Can I speak to you, Baran?”

“Is there a problem?” Daddy Darien asked.

“No, I need him to fill out some college applications.”

“You’d better fill them out, Baran. That’s the first step to accessing a student visa,” Daddy Darien said.

“I’ll make sure he completes them. I’ll help him.”

Baran followed her to the office, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness. She had a stack of applications on the desk and he was eager to take the next step towards his future. However, as they entered her office, he sensed an underlying tension.

The office was small but meticulously organized. Shelves lined with binders and files occupied one wall, while a neat desk stood in the center. The room was devoid of personal touches, reflecting Miss Archer’s no-nonsense approach to her work.

“Have a seat, Baran,” Miss Archer said, her tone clipped.

Miss Archer’s stern gaze stopped him from sitting. He wasn’t sure he wanted to stay in her office without Daddy Darien.

“Sit on the side desk and fill these out, but first I want to say something to you.”

“Yes, ma’am,” he said in a calm and respectful tone.

“Listen, Baran,” she began, her voice low and menacing. “I’ve seen plenty of people come through here, and I can spot a gold digger a mile away. Don’t think for a second that you can use Darien for your own gain.”

Baran’s eyes widened in shock. “What? I would never—”

She cut him off, leaning forward with a glare. “Don’t play innocent with me. Little gold diggers like you get nowhere. If I even suspect you’re taking advantage of Darien’s kindness, I’ll have you deported and on your way back to Turkey faster than you can blink.” The sharpness in her voice was impossible to ignore.

Anger and pain overwhelmed him. He had been through so much, and this accusation was the last thing he needed. “I’m not using him,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion. “I care about Darien. He’s been nothing but kind to me.”

Miss Archer’s expression remained stony. “We’ll see about that. I’m watching you, Baran. Don’t make me regret allowing you to stay here.”

Baran clenched his fists, trying to keep his composure. “I just want to build a future for myself. That’s all.”

She straightened up, the warning clear in her eyes. “Make sure that’s all you’re after. Now, let’s get these applications sorted.”

They worked in tense silence, Baran’s mind racing with frustration and indignation. Miss Archer’s words stung, but Baran was determined to prove her wrong and carve out a path for himself on his own terms.

About an hour later, Darien walked into her office.

“How’s it going?”

“I have one more to go.”

Miss Archer said, “Let’s hope he’s telling the truth on his applications.”

“Why would I lie?” Baran asked.

“I was reading your finished ones. Your grades are excellent according to you, but when we get your transcripts, then we’ll know.”

“You won’t be able to read them,” Baran said.

“Why not?”

“They’re in Turkish unless you can read Turkish.”

She got up from her seat and walked over to him. “Baran, they will send translated ones to US universities. I won’t see them since they will go directly to the schools.” She walked out of her office, leaving Baran and Daddy Darien alone.

“What was that all about?” Darien asked.

“Nothing really. She thinks I’m after you for your money. I’m not.”

“I never thought that for one minute. Miss Archer is very protective of me. She doesn’t want me to be taken advantage of by anyone. I’ll talk to her.”

“Does she do that to all your dates?”

“She never knows about them because I never date guys here.”

“Why me?”

“You’re a different story. I feel more than I should have for the short time we’ve known each other. I go with my feelings. I haven’t felt anything for a long time and then you showed up.”

“I like you a lot. You’re my knight in shining armor. You don’t treat me like I’m a homeless foreigner.”

“I don’t see you as that.”

“How do you see me?”

“As my future. You came here all bruised and abandoned by your father, but there was something in your eyes that made me believe you were strong and very sensitive. It’s a feeling inside me and difficult to express.”

“I sure had fun skating with you.”

“We’ll do it again. Now, if you’re finished, let’s go decorate.”

They left Miss Archer’s office as if they couldn’t separate from each other, their shoulders rubbing as they walked.

Baran and Darien worked side by side, hanging ornaments and stringing up lights throughout the shelter. The festive spirit was infectious and Baran couldn’t help but smile as he watched the shelter come alive with holiday cheer. Together, they decorated a Christmas tree, their laughter mingling with the sound of carols playing softly in the background. Through it all, however, Baran couldn’t shake the feeling of Miss Archer’s eyes boring into him. Every time he looked her way, she was giving him a dirty look that made his stomach churn.

As he adjusted a garland, Darien leaned in close, his voice low. “I’m going to talk to Miss Archer about her behavior. You don’t deserve this.”

Baran nodded, grateful for Darien’s support. “Thanks. It’s really upsetting.”

Silas and Finley joined them, both carrying boxes of decorations. “Hey, Baran,” Silas said, setting down his box. “What’s going on with you and Darien? We’ve noticed you two spending a lot of time together.”

Baran hesitated, unsure how much to share. But the genuine curiosity in their eyes made him feel comfortable. “Well, Darien and I have been getting closer. We’re dating.”

“Did he really move you into his home?” Silas asked.

“Yes, but I have my own room. He wanted me to feel safe after Hawk attacked me.”

Finley’s eyes widened. “Wow, that’s big news. How’s it going?”

Baran smiled softly. “It’s great. He’s helping me get a student visa.”

Silas grinned. “That’s great to hear, Baran. You deserve some happiness after everything you’ve been through.”

“Thanks, Silas. It means a lot to have your support too.”

As they continued decorating, Baran felt a sense of warmth and friendship. Despite the challenges and the shadow of Miss Archer’s suspicions, he knew he wasn’t alone. He had Darien, Silas, and Finley by his side, and together, they were creating something beautiful.