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Fadel, Bison, & Keen: The Implication of Victimhood and Human Trafficking
TW/CW Note: This essay argues the case of Fadel, Bison, and Keen being the victims of human trafficking. It also compiles and dissects evidence of that claim with sources, analyses of various scenes, and current Thai and International laws. It may be upsetting for some readers.
This meta/essay was written because I can't just watch a fun, Shakespeare derived show about gay hitmen and not get weird about it.
…And also because I have been working in the mental health/behavioral field for several years, almost solely with minors - some of whom were abused and exploited.
The more I think about Fadel's and Bison's circumstances - the canon evidence, the implied manipulation and abuse throughout the show, and everything that WASN’T shown or said to give Lilly any kind of legal legitimacy, the more I feel like they aren't as culpable for their crimes as they think they are.
But first, what constitutes as human trafficking on a Thai and international standard?
Under Thai law, human trafficking is comprehensively defined in the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act B.E. 2551 (2008). The Act outlines specific actions, means, and purposes that constitute human trafficking offenses.
Definition(s) of Human Trafficking
According to Section 6 of the Act:
"Whoever, for the purpose of exploitation, does any of the following acts: procuring, buying, selling, vending, bringing from or sending to, detaining or confining, harboring, or receiving a person, by means of threat or use of force, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power, or of the giving money or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, shall be guilty of trafficking in persons."
While this definition can be interpreted differently by various parties, the The Act further clarifies that exploitation includes, but is not limited to:
Sexual exploitation
Production or distribution of pornography
Forced labor or services
Slavery or practices similar to slavery
Involuntary servitude
Forced begging
Removal of organs for commercial purposes
Other similar forms of exploitation
It is worth noting that these forms of exploitation are ALWAYS considered trafficking when a child is involved, and Fadel, Bison, and Keen were obtained as minors under duress and violent circumstances.
Below are screenshots from The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, which pertains to Thailand specifically. Highlighted statements support the claims being made in this essay according to their country’s laws on the matter.
Internationally, human trafficking is defined by The United Nations as:
"The recruitment, transport, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation.”
Considering Fadel, Bison, and Keen were all orphaned when their parents were murdered by Lilly’s people, only to be put in the (dubious) custody of the woman who left them vulnerable to make them dependent on her, they more than fit this definition.
1. Acquisition through Deception and Questionable Guardianship
Following the murders of their parents, Fadel, Bison, and Keen were placed in the custody of Lilly—a woman they had no known relationship with prior.
All three came from wealthy families, yet no efforts appear to have been made to place them with relatives or protect their inheritance. They ended up with their parents' killer. Lilly tricking all three of their families into granting custody in the event of their deaths seems unlikely, but if she managed, this is still a form of coercion, considering what transpired.
Legal Framework: Thai Civil and Commercial Code Sections 1585–1588 require formal guardianship proceedings, prioritizing relatives and requiring oversight.
The UN Palermo Protocol and Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act B.E. 2551 (2008) would both consider guardianship obtained through fraud, deception, or abuse of power as qualifying mechanisms for trafficking. Considering Lilly had Fadel’s, Bison’s, and Keen’s parents murdered, then lied about who was responsible for their trauma and rehoming, she definitely committed:
Fraud, by misrepresenting herself - both to the boys and possibly to the courts for either legal guardianship, financial gain to obtain the families’ assets, or both.
Deception, by making her adopted sons trust her initially, only to manipulate them into thinking they were in danger and needed to be trained as hitmen.
Abuse of power, by using her position to manipulate them into a state of vulnerability so they would be reliant on her and loyal when it came to her training and orders once she gained their trust.
Conclusion: The guardianship and its legality may have never been formally investigated, and it may not have been obtained legally. If it was legally documented, Lilly likely obtained it through bribes and systematic manipulation. Considering all three boys seem to have come from wealthy families who would have likely assigned a guardian that their sons knew prior to being orphaned (a family member, a family friend), the circumstances are highly irregular. It also strongly suggests deceptive acquisition, qualifying under the legal definitions of trafficking.
2. Psychological Manipulation and Coercive Conditioning
Lilly began by treating the boys like sons, offering safety and structure before introducing training for violence and strategic killing. In the brief flashback we get, we see three boys standing in a line, foreshadowing their eventual soldier-like expectations. But when she sees one of their shoes untied, she bends down and ties it for them before telling all three they can call her “Mother”. This establishes a gentle, maternal bond that offers comfort, care, and parental authority. But this memory is sharply contrasted by the one following it when she has them practice their aim after the trust and need to impress her has been established. By the time she is sending Fadel and Bison on jobs she frames as necessary and noble, they are fully loyal to her and trust her knowledge, judgment, and orders.
She framed their actions as necessary protection or retribution for their parents' deaths, creating a false moral narrative to justify lethal missions. This manipulation led to emotional dependence, blurred lack of autonomy, and the belief that loyalty to her was synonymous with survival and justice.
Legal Framework: Thai and international trafficking laws recognize emotional coercion, abuse of trust, and manipulation of vulnerability as means of trafficking.
Conclusion: The grooming and emotional manipulation used to coerce minors into violence constitutes a clear form of non-physical coercion and entrapment. Despite Fadel and Bison being adults by the time they are arrested for their crimes, they were groomed, conditioned, manipulated, isolated from familial connections, and ultimately brainwashed as children.
3. Coerced Criminal Activity through False Narratives
Fadel and Bison were often told their assassination targets were involved with their families’ deaths or were dangerous criminals. While a few of these claims may have been true, other claims may have been used to manufacture moral permission to kill, embedding loyalty through deceit. They carried out violent missions under the impression that they were defending themselves or serving justice. Again, they were conditioned to prepare for this as minors, and possibly started missions prior to reaching adulthood. The timeline on their first kills was never substantiated, but their conditioning, grooming, isolation from family, and brainwashing make them qualify as victims being coerced into criminal activity through false narratives.
Legal Framework: The Palermo Protocol and Thailand’s anti-trafficking statute both include criminal exploitation through manipulation or deception.
Conclusion: Their participation in criminal acts under coerced moral justification meets the standard for trafficking-based criminal exploitation.
4. Sexual Exploitation via Implicit Coercion and Mission Pressure
This one is more of an interpretation, but I feel like it is worth exploring.
Going by what we see, it was not uncommon for Fadel and Bison to perform seduction-based roles as part of their missions—exotic dancing, acting as escorts, or using sexual appeal to disarm targets.
In the first scene of the show, Bison is posing as an escort and spending time with an older man. He starts singing karaoke with him, but is in the robe in the next scene and massaging the target, who is sitting in a tub, which is where the target is ultimately killed. Bison doesn't flinch. He almost looks proud of himself when the man is clearly falling for his advances. This notes satisfaction with his methods leading towards a successful, criminal mission that results in murder.
Fadel’s reaction towards such methods is a huge contrast.
In episode 3, Fadel and Bison are expected to seduce a person of interest through exotic dancing. She is then drugged and taken back to her room so they can go through her things and obtain information. Fadel initially pushes Bison to honey trap. He remains distant, cordial, and uses the excuse that Bison is better at it (which might imply Bison having less issues with it overall).
But this time, Bison refuses. It's worth noting this conversation happens right after he talks to Fadel about possibly dating Kant. He may have had little to no issue with it before, but does now that he is developing real feelings for someone. Bison pushes Fadel to be the one to seduce the woman. Unlike Fadel's stiff, professional request, Bison is humorous and playful. This continues despite Fadel showing discomfort and reluctance at the thought of dancing for her and the crowd. He ultimately goes through with it. Bison almost seems smug over not being the woman’s type and Fadel having to be the one to dance (although reacts with subtle and mild offense when the woman tells him that to his face). He also doesn't seem to empathize with his brother’s discomfort.
While it is possible that these methods were not suggested by Lilly and are only ones they resorted to as adults based on their own decision-making skills (as compromised as they were by their conditioning in other developmental areas), their reactions to this situation scream otherwise.
Fadel is reluctant and uncomfortable that he has to be the one to do it. His consent is dubious at best. He seems to depend more on Bison to carry out this type of skill due to contrasting takes on the matter.
Bison, on the other hand, seems to normalize honey trapping. He only takes issue with it when he is developing a romantic relationship. Even then, he teases and jokes about Fadel being the better man for this particular job, missing the quiet reluctance on Fadel's part. This hints towards desensitization, which can be a common coping response for abuse and complex trauma victims.
While Lilly’s conditioning on this front can only be speculated, we have a couple of pieces of circumstantial evidence that support the idea she either subtly planted seeds to put this method in her adopted sons’ toolkit or directed them to do it more overtly in the past - leading them to choose that method “freely” now.
Lilly’s recruitment of Kant into escort work—specifically to bring attractive friends to act as 'party favors'—demonstrates a clear pattern of sexually exploitative behaviors. While Kant WANTED to be invited to her circle to expose her for her crimes, she didn't know this. She viewed him as a young golf caddy, someone she could exploit with the promise of payment.
Lilly was a hitwoman herself. She may have resorted to honey trapping methods back when she was working beneath someone else. Cycled and generational abuse is unfortunately common, especially when the trusted figure refuses to admit they were once a victim or seek out therapeutic services/support.
So…
Legal Framework: Thai and international law define sexual exploitation to include pressured or coerced participation in sexualized roles, especially when the individual is underage or emotionally dependent. Regardless of when these behaviors started, they were conditioned, groomed, and isolated at a young age and made emotionally/psychologically dependent in adulthood. The crimes they were committing on Lilly's behalf fueled sexualizing themselves for information.
Conclusion: These sexually charged missions—especially when reinforced by peer pressure, manipulation, or emotional conditioning—fall within the scope of indirect sexual exploitation under trafficking statutes.
5. Systematic Emotional Abuse and Dependency Control
A strict performance-based hierarchy seems to have governed Lilly’s household. Compliance resulted in praise; deviation led to emotional withdrawal, ridicule, or humiliation.
Keen, unable to serve in the field, was repeatedly shamed and belittled, creating an obsessive need to prove his worth. He was often verbally and emotionally abused by Lilly. Fadel’s and Bison’s insults towards him often hint at ridicule or - alternatively - resentment, since Keen has never had to kill anyone. Creating rifts within the formed sibling unit also creates a breeding ground for competition and a need to please the trusted figure, especially in the more isolated party. Keen’s need to impress Lilly later on by trying to carry out the hits on Fadel and Style (and Kant and Bison, if they had been tracked down) was almost inevitable.
Meanwhile, Fadel and Bison were rewarded for excelling, reinforcing a world where survival and approval were earned only through loyalty and effectiveness.
Legal Framework: Emotional abuse and psychological dependence are explicitly acknowledged in trafficking legislation as valid tools of coercion.
Conclusion: This emotionally volatile environment fostered long-term dependency and control which meets the criteria for non-physical coercive trafficking.
6. Threat of Retaliation for Attempts to Exit
When Fadel and Bison attempted to retire peacefully, Lilly appeared to give her blessing—then secretly instructed Keen to murder them and their romantic partners.
Keen failed, and was verbally abused by Lilly, solidifying the lesson that disloyalty equals death.
Years earlier, Fadel had tried to leave her control by planning to move in with his first boyfriend. Shortly after, the boyfriend vanished.
Fadel believed he had been abandoned until Keen later confessed that Lilly had put a hit on the man. When Fadel asks why he never told him earlier, Keen says she would have killed him too.
Legal Framework: Retaliation or threats tied to exit attempts are core indicators of trafficking under both Thai and international law.
Conclusion: The lethal consequences for asserting independence—whether through romantic relationships or attempted retirement—showcase total control through fear, reinforcing their status as trafficking victims.
7. Financial Exploitation and Asset Suppression
This point is also more theorized, but is still worth noting.
Despite their likely inheritance due to their families’ wealth, Fadel and Bison seem to only have limited access to the estates they were legally owed.
It is implied that individuals (likely tied to Lilly) pressured their parents to relinquish property or wealth, and that refusal to comply preceded their murders.
Once the boys were in Lilly’s custody, it is unclear if there is evidence of ethical estate management or legal oversight.
Considering Lilly’s obsession with status - displayed by her friend group, hangout spots, and greed, it would not be surprising if she took control of the majority of their estates. She may have given them access to just enough for them not to investigate the extent of what they lost out on. Bison mentions the island home was the only property that wasn't taken. Any uncovered inheritance in the form of cash, stocks, bonds, property, valuables, and other assets were likely fraudulently controlled and only partially handed over to keep Fadel, Bison, and Keen from asking questions. Otherwise, it isn't out of the realm of possibility that Lilly arranged to take ownership or be the beneficiary through fraud, coercion, deception, or bribery, which is likely how she also gained custody of three biologically unrelated minors.
In fact, Lilly likely wouldn't have taken in three minors she personally traumatized unless there was a great payout earlier on. While being able to condition and brainwash them helped her financially in the long run, it would have been a huge gamble legally and a risky investment if she had not gotten the majority of their inheritance. So she likely let them keep some of what was rightfully theirs and paid them good salaries, but robbed them of much more than what she gave.
Legal Framework: Financial control is recognized under Thai law and international trafficking doctrine as a coercive tactic when used to restrict independence or manipulate behavior.
Conclusion: Their restricted access to their potential inheritance—combined with the violent deaths of their parents following coercion—strongly supports a pattern of financial exploitation consistent with trafficking operations.
Final Summary of Evidence Compilation
Fadel and Bison experienced:
Fraudulent custody acquisition and loss of familial protection
Psychological manipulation and mission-based coercion
Forced criminal activity disguised as moral duty
Possible sexual exploitation through conditioned loyalty and mission expectations
Emotional abuse and performance-based affection to ensure compliance
Lethal retaliation for attempted independence
Possible economic exploitation, likely linked to their parents’ murders
These experiences satisfy all legal definitions of human trafficking under:
Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act B.E. 2551 (2008)
The UN Palermo Protocol, ratified by Thailand in 2003
By this criteria, they were victims—trafficked, conditioned, and controlled through emotional, economic, and psychological means.
Legal and Moral Culpability
Legally and morally, Fadel, Bison, and Keen are victims of human trafficking going by the current laws and standards when their circumstances are examined.
But are they culpable for the crimes they committed under Lilly’s control and manipulation?
Yes and no. Morally, they are culpable in the sense that they committed murder and had awareness of what they were doing. They may have thought they were killing bad people, but they also seem to have known that killing was wrong. They knew to lay low and to not get caught. Their situation and upbringing led to other disturbing behaviors (kidnapping their significant others upon being betrayed). In some ways, yes. They have a history of being morally in the wrong and likely know as much, especially after Lilly’s lies and crimes are revealed.
However, with all of the circumstances listed above that support the idea they were victims of human trafficking, they would have had a strong case that might have excused them from legal culpability if presented extensively and correctly by knowledgeable legal representation.
“Each Party shall, subject to its domestic laws, rules, regulations and policies, and in appropriate cases, consider not holding victims of trafficking in persons criminally or administratively liable, for unlawful acts committed by them, if such acts are directly related to the acts of trafficking.”
“Any person who is a victim of trafficking in persons shall receive protection and appropriate care from the Government, including physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation, legal assistance, and compensation for damages.”
Source: Thailand Anti-Trafficking Act B.E. 2551 (2008), Section 41: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Thailand197.pdf
“Trafficked persons should not be subject to arrest, charge, detention, prosecution, or be penalized or otherwise punished for illegal conduct that they committed as a direct consequence of being trafficked.”
Source: UNODC Issue Paper on Non-Punishment Principle: https://www.unodc.org/documents/human-trafficking/ICAT/19-10800_ICAT_Issue_Brief_8_Ebook.pdf
“The non-punishment principle is integral to fulfilling human rights obligations to victims, and obligations to prevent and suppress trafficking in persons and other serious crimes.”
Five years for murder charges? Normally a great deal. It is understandable why Fadel and Bison jumped on it, especially when they do not identify as trafficking victims and feel responsible for their prior crimes now that they know about all of Lilly’s lies. A life on the run was not appealing at that point. Serving five years so they could move on with their lives and hopefully be with their partners after the fact was preferable.
But I can only assume they declined legal counsel and a hearing/trial in exchange. If they requested legal counsel and got someone knowledgeable in exploitation, their cases and histories could have been examined in their entirety. A legal counsel set on advocating for them would have likely picked up any prior legal loopholes Lilly took advantage of, along with any fraud, coercion, abuse, and legal/illegal inconsistencies. With this evidence being documented, a strong case for their status as trafficking victims could have been established. This could have led to an even lesser sentence or no sentence at all. If it was determined that they needed to be in a restrictive environment, they would have likely ended up somewhere that focused on rehabilitation - not punishment - and it may have been for a much shorter time. Their status as trafficking survivors (if accepted by the courts, legal counsel, and Fadel and Bison themselves) would also likely result in expunged and sealed records.
So while this drama is classified as a romantic comedy based on a Shakespeare play, it is ultimately tragic when it comes to systematic failure - as well as the long-term trafficking, abuse, and manipulation not being legally recognized for three key characters. Fadel, Bison, and Keen will likely never truly understand the scope of injustices they have faced. They were not only failed by Lilly. They were also failed by the system that should have saved them from her.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
As Long as I Can Travel this World with You: Chapter 23 Preview
As a precaution, Kemal made sure most of the emails that came his way were directed to his assistants a long time ago.
The emails automatically redirected to his assistants often come from strangers with “grand” ideas looking for an in with Demiral Group–or for an investment in their own business from Kemal himself. Occasionally, he reportedly gets offers of companionship from other women, ones who not so subtly claim that he deserves a younger and more vivacious woman than his wife. If Kemal answered such emails, he would ask these women if they ever met his wife. Leyla warned Kemal on their wedding night that if he ever cheated on her, she would castrate him, turn his testicles into jewelry, and leave him in poverty after taking him for everything he owned. Then, she pounced on him and completely let loose, despite the fact she was five months pregnant at the time. Looking back, the intensity might have been BECAUSE she was pregnant. They didn't leave their honeymoon suite for three days. Despite grief, trauma, mental health crises, and aging, her energy has barely decreased. He would be an absolute idiot to stray from his wife. She is the woman who he has loved, raised children with, experienced momentous loss with, and healed with, all while he has done his absolute best to keep up with her. The models, actresses, socialites, and Courtney Love have nothing on Leyla.
Many emails also include one-sided correspondence from strangers regarding their selfless love for one of his granddaughters and how they want his blessing before proposing, despite them likely never meeting any of his girls. Contrary to popular belief, Kemal has never been the type to expect his grandchildren or their chosen significant others to ask for his permission to date. Sometimes he wishes he was that type of man, considering the up in the clouds women Melis has brought home, as well as the men Elif associated with who had no business dating someone her age in the first place. Bora was a welcome change initially. He was five and a half years older, but that gap was appropriate compared to the others. The novelty wore off after maybe a year, but Kemal continued to play nice despite his developing reservations. He allowed Bora to take the yacht so he and Elif could have a day on the water. Stupid decision on his part, since they came back engaged. That engagement made him realize he wished he had presented himself as the type of man who needed to give approval for a proposal. Because if that were the case, he would have told Bora absolutely not and to get lost already due to disregarding Elif’s opinions on many matters in life, his insecurity over her power in the workforce, and getting too flirtatious with other women. Who knows when that boy actually started sleeping around?
He can't foresee Style behaving in such a way. He bought Fadel the restaurant, became more successful than most automotive engineers become, and at least informed Kemal that he wanted to propose to Fadel. Did he fight almost every single tweak in his plan? Absolutely. But Kemal respects that. In fact, Style is his favorite person any of his grandchildren have dated by far. Sure, he has an advantage. Style would have to present himself pretty badly for them not to accept him.
Although, Kemal would happily embrace Fadel dating a fifty year old telemarketer who answered questions in grunts as soon as he was off the clock if it meant having his grandson back. But Style does not fit that very specific example. Besides being a successful business owner and automotive engineer, he played a role in bringing Fadel back to them. He has also played a key role in regulating Fadel in times of trauma regression. Style put in the effort to learn some Turkish on his own. Kemal will make sure the boy has an intensive tutor to make him proficient, considering the family he will be marrying into. Style is only a few weeks older than Fadel. No power imbalance dynamic in that regard. Kemal deeply appreciates and respects him. He gets along with everyone in the family, adores Fadel, and he helped bring their boy home. He is wonderful, despite being completely unexpected because Fadel being alive had been completely unexpected until a couple of weeks ago.
Which is probably why this new influx of emails is also completely unexpected once Fatima texts him to make him aware.
Fatima: There have been approximately 38 emails from international socialite women with connections to the film, fashion, and music industries expressing interest in offering well wishes and companionship to your grandson during this momentous time.
Fatima: Also, three baronesses and four viscountesses spread across multiple European royal families, and one Nyoō from Japan have also expressed interest. Some personally, some through family representatives. I forwarded those emails to you because I don't get paid enough to turn down important, entitled royals and their strategic romantic gestures.
Kemal: Leyla and I just gifted you a new Lexus. You liked it so much that you bought one for your husband in full.
Fatima: I WILL NEVER GET PAID ENOUGH TO TURN DOWN THE WEIRD SUITORS OF YOUR GRANDCHILDREN.
Kemal: Get creative with it. Give them each a different refusal. Say he is becoming a Catholic priest. Tell them he is embarking for Antarctica for a long-term research project. Maybe let them know he is a firm believer of only living with basic essentials and they will need to leave their luxurious residences to have a shot with him.
Fatima: All fun ideas, but I feel like ignoring them is a better call.
Kemal: Then why are you stressing out and sending their emails my way? Send none of them my way. Ignore them all.
Fatima: Even ones that aren't romantic in tone?
Kemal: Even those.
Fatima: I am not used to ignoring emails from Buckingham Palace, sorry. They apologized again for Andrew’s behavior back in 2009, by the way. Vaguely and without using his name, but it was obvious. You should probably answer that email yourself. They want to know if there is anything they can do for you, Fadel, and your family. I don't know what they can do from England.
Kemal: Probably offer a secluded manor for a visit while subtly trying to get Leyla to take back her yearly social media rants about Andrew being an Epstein associated pervert.
Fatima: Aw, what a fun vacation! 😃
Kemal: I will answer Buckingham Palace vaguely and politely.
Fatima: And the president of Turkey? I also forwarded you an email from him.
Kemal snarls but taps out his response.
Kemal: I will be perfectly pleasant.
“Who are you texting?” Leyla asks as she comes back into the room and throws herself on the bed, “One of your many lovers?”
“One of our few assistants,” Kemal says pointedly, “Fatima wanted to let me know that Fadel…now has prominent suitors.”
Leyla growls and sits back up, “My canim is not a prize to be won! He is a very handsome and talented boy, but he is NOT a bachelor. He is in a committed relationship. With a man. You tell those girls to hit on someone more single and less gay.”
“I will not be outing our grandson.”
“He's already out!” Leyla says, “All of his friends and employees know. He didn't keep it from us! He even suggested writing it in the statement to get those women outside to stop it with their nonsense!”
“I'm aware,” Kemal says, “And if he would like to make his own statement regarding his orientation and relationship, he can do that. Although, I do agree with Azra. Such a statement would be better made after the crowds thin out.”
“Oh, I know that,” Leyla says, “But I don't want Style to feel threatened by any perceived competition. He loves our canim! I can't wait for the engagement. I can't wait for the wedding. Oh, Kemal! Where do you think they will have it?”
“Wherever their hearts desire because we will make sure of it,” Kemal says.
“I want to invite those women outside,” Leyla says, jumping to her feet, “So they can all cry over not being in Style’s place as they try their best to object to the marriage. I think Fadel and Style would ignore them, then make out and give them the middle finger while doing so.”
“Now you are just being silly,” Kemal tells her before she goes over to sit on his lap, “I have emails to answer.”
“The socialites?”
“I am not even bothering,” Kemal says, “Buckingham Palace. Our president–”
“Ew!” Leyla says with a scoff, “Kemal, don't. No, actually, please do. Give him my most unkind regards–”
“Leyla,” Kemal cuts in, but feels the corner of his mouth twitching up before he opens his laptop, “Let’s at least read it first.”
“Let’s!”
By the time Kemal gets his email open and scrolls past the other messages–some of which he will ignore, some of which he will answer with sincerity, and some of which he will answer professionally–he finds the president’s email and is immediately annoyed by how kind it sounds.
“Dear Kemal Bey,” Kemal reads, “I want to extend our formal recognition of the extraordinary news shared by your family regarding Fadel Kasemsan. The survival and return of your grandson is a matter of profound human significance. I acknowledge the pain endured by the Demiral and Kasemsan families and offer my relief that Fadel has been reunited with his surviving relatives. I have had my advisors note the serious concerns raised in your family’s statement regarding past identification procedures and associated records. Relevant offices will be prepared to cooperate with authorities. I will also be willing to personally advocate for justice. The parties in Thailand responsible for such a transgression should face consequences. Your grandson is a dual citizen. He deserves that honor and protection since he is one of our own. Know that if he chooses to live in our country, it will be a seamless transition and he will be safe. Regardless, I wish Fadel privacy, stability, and the protection owed to every citizen whose life has been shaped by grave wrongdoing. Please accept our formal good wishes during this period of reunion.”
Despite the message being nice enough, Leyla starts gagging.
“Leyla–”
“He's the worst!” Leyla says, “He only wrote that because he likely wants you to clarify to the public that Turkish offices were not involved with the corrupt misidentification! That email? It's just some long and fancy way to say ‘We didn't do it'. You know it. I would say that even if that email was written by a man with my political beliefs. But go ahead. Answer him.”
So Kemal does.
Dear Sir,
My family acknowledges receipt of your message and appreciates offers of support.
Fadel and I were just discussing how regrettable it is that the recent conservative family values protection bill passed despite its obvious harm to vulnerable citizens, particularly those whose private lives already require protection from public and institutional intrusion. Your note on privacy and dignity is therefore received with interest.
Regards,
Kemal Demiral
“Petty,” Leyla says, but then kisses his cheek, “I love it.”
“Learned from the best,” Kemal says, then closes the laptop before Leyla can scold some persistent baroness via email. She seems to know what he is doing, but kisses him instead of arguing. That state of bliss only lasts about ten seconds when they receive a knock on their door.
“I’ll get it!” Leyla sings, hopping out of his lap to rush over to the door. When she opens it, Leo is standing there with a slightly befuddled look on his face. It's a rare expression for Leo. He started working for the family 22 years ago and proved his abilities quickly by being the guard who could most effectively keep track of a sneaky, wandering Melis, the only grandchild who had cycled through guards since she was a toddler. Other than taking some time off for his wedding and then for the birth of his son, he stayed on her security team until she went to college before entering a high level security coordination role.
“It's Leo!” Leyla says with a gasp, as if she didn't see him just yesterday, “Come in, come in! How is Nok? Is she in yet? What about your son?”
Leo steps further into the room, “She and Kaan made it to Istanbul from Antalya, are taking a little time to spend time in the city, and will be arriving here tomorrow. I am glad I booked their flights before they all sold out.”
“As am I,” Kemal says, “Does Kaan still plan to tour universities here in Bangkok?”
“Yes, Kemal Bey,” Leo says, “That is the plan.”
“I think that will be so good for him,” Leyla says, “You are a quarter Thai through your mother! Sort of like how Selin and my Taylan were, except your mother is half Italian too. Kaan will probably feel more connected to a part of his culture if he spends more time in Thailand, especially with Nok being Thai! My Taylan did. I love your little boy. He reminds me of Taylan more than you do. Did I ever tell you that?”
“A few times over the years, ma’am,” Leo says, “And as someone who knew him, I take it as a compliment in the highest regard.”
Leyla grins–her eyes slightly teary–before pulling him in for a hug and letting him go, “He is a wonderful boy and I hope he has a marvelous time here. It's hard to believe that Andrew creep is indirectly responsible for his existence! You may have never met your wife if Fadel and Elif hadn't rescued her from him! I bet she is happy Fadel is alive too, right?”
“Very much so,” Leo says, “She is looking forward to meeting him. Speaking of Fadel…and of…Andrew, while we’re at it, there is someone in the main lobby who has royal family connections, reportedly a distant cousin descended from Queen Victoria. She wants to get to know Fadel and claims they played together at an event when they were children–”
“Oh, please!” Leyla huffs, stomping away, “She is ridiculous if she thinks she is even entering the ground VIP lobby, let alone our space! Have her kicked out! If word spreads and makes us look less than hospitable, I will post another exposé about the horrific, outcast creep in her family. Your wife always likes those, and you do too despite having a wonderful poker face! Use that when you kick her out. It can be intimidating to those who don't know you better.”
“I would have no issue with doing that if she arrived alone,” Leo says, “I would even have no issue if she arrived with Buckingham Palace security detail. But she is with military personnel from Thailand. I guess she is friends with one of the king’s first cousin’s grandchildren. I guess with that tie as well as her own back home, she was able to obtain royal military guards for her trip–guards who are currently refusing to listen to me. They seem slightly embarrassed and conflicted, but are acting on orders from her friend to not leave until Fadel comes down personally. She said no one else from the family would do.”
Kemal pinches the bridge of his nose, “I'm not putting my grandson through that.”
“That is not what I am suggesting,” Leo says, “But I do need permission to split staff and send them to the main lobby since calling authorities to have her removed will not work in this case.”
Before Kemal or Leyla can say anything else, there is another knock on the door. When Leo goes to open it, Lara is standing there with a pleasant smile on her face.
“I texted Fadel,” Lara says, “He is dressed now and ready to break that delusional bitch’s heart.”
“Oh, Lara,” Leyla groans, “Why did you bother him with this nonsense? I don't want him to stress out over anything, especially over some girl he has no interest in. I know he doesn't want to deal with this–”
“I’m heading down,” Fadel says, coming into view, “I want to get this over with before Style wakes up.”
“Fadel, don't you dare!” Leyla snaps, then quickly corrects herself, “I mean…Canim, sweetheart, let’s think this through.”
“Nothing to think over,” Fadel says with a shrug, “She won't leave until she sees me, so I will go and turn her down. She will get her wish that way.”
“I don't think getting rejected is what she wishes for,” Lara says, then leans in, “Will you reconsider if she offers you swans? One of my suitors offered me a flock of swans. I told him I mustn’t take such a thoughtful gift but he insisted. When I still turned him down, he returned and demanded that I give him his swans back. By that point, I trained them to attack him specifically. And that's how we ended up with a swan park in one of the courtyards at the Sovereign.”
Kemal watches as Fadel blinks and takes in his youngest cousin's words, then finally processes them.
“I think she has Royal military guards with her, not swans,” Fadel says, “Probably ones who work for the extended family of the king. Not even the king himself. I will be fine.”
“Wait,” Kemal says, holding up a hand before turning to Leo, “Bring her to the ground VIP lounge. I don't want her to enter the 31st floor, and definitely not this floor. But if Fadel wants to see if he can get her to leave himself, I won't stop him. But I want you and the rest of the guards on him. If the contingency to getting this girl and her assigned personnel to comply is him going down to tell her himself that he has no interest, we can try it. But–and I mean this, Fadel–if she returns or eventually starts trying to show up in public areas you frequent, then you are to avoid contact with her at all costs.”
Fadel nods once, “Okay.”
“And I am going down,” Kemal says, getting up, “As Melis says, I have aura.”
“You do, Dede,” Lara says, “You're very intimidating when you want to be. I get it from you. And we’ll find out if Fadel does too.”
“Well, I am coming down as well!” Leyla says, walking towards the door, “The fact that she thinks my canim is a prospective match! Please! You don't get tempted by whatever she has to offer, canim. It's a trap.”
Kemal is relieved that his grandson doesn't seem to feel curious or intimidated.
“She doesn't have a shot,” Fadel tells them, “I already have someone across the hall.”
Leo calls for back up through his watch, and once they have it, they head down to the ground floor VIP lobby to wait.
When the woman comes with her seemingly put-upon military personnel, Fadel stares at her looking completely unimpressed. She is dressed in a business formal sleeveless dress. Her blonde hair is tied up in an intricate braided bun with not one hair out of place and she has expensive, delicate earrings hanging from her lobes. She looks to be around Elif’s age, but much more uptight. But despite that and her refusal to leave, she shows enough manners as she curtsies to Kemal and then to Leyla. She only nods respectfully at Lara before curtsying even lower for Fadel.
“Mr. Kasemsan,” she says in English, her voice soft and pleasant enough, Kemal supposes, “It's nice to meet you–”
“Not interested,” Fadel says back in her mother tongue, “You saw me. That's what you wanted, right? Here I am. You told my family’s security you wouldn’t leave until I was in front of you and used the presence of royal-adjacent guards to stand on that. You got your wish, so now you can go. Bye.”
Very…blunt. But so was Fadel as a child. Kemal isn't that surprised.
But the woman seems to be as she powers through.
“My name is Poppy–”
“And we will all make sure your name accompanies your picture on the guest blacklist bulletin board,” Fadel says, then bows slightly at her, “So thank you for informing me. Have a nice day–”
“I am offering you lunch!” Poppy cuts in more forcefully, “Companionship. Maybe something more. I live on a beautiful estate with horses. Do you go horseback riding?”
Fadel shockingly grins at her, “Do you think I have gone horseback riding in the last twenty years?”
Poppy looks flustered but powers through, “Well, I am offering you an opportunity now. My estate is massive. There are multiple manors and beautiful cottages. My family can arrange for a private flight to London and a limo the rest of the way so we can…unwind. Get to know each other–”
“And ride horses?” Fadel interrupts.
Poppy straightens her shoulders, “I have many horses, so yes. Raising and riding them is a passion of mine. And I have one horse in particular, a well-decorated English Thoroughbred. He has been awarded for his speed and agility in prominent races, and for his appearance. That being said, he strongly prefers male riders. Wellington is yours. I will send over the papers immediately.”
“You're going to stress out this poor horse with an overseas trip?” Fadel asks, “That seems incredibly weird, not to mention inconsiderate of Wellington’s comfort levels.
“I don't think you know who you are talking to!”
“I'm talking to someone who I am rejecting blatantly and can't take a hint.”
“We played together as children!”
“Once,” Fadel says, “According to you. And I don't recall it. Go find someone who does make a point of prioritizing you, because I definitely won't. I mean it. You deserve better. Go.”
With that, Fadel turns to her assigned personnel, “Is that okay? She said she wouldn't leave until she saw me. That's done. And I turned her down.”
“Um…” one of the royal military personnel says as he glances at Poppy tentatively.
“I can get a hold of the king,” Kemal says suddenly, “We aren't friends by any means, but I imagine he will reach out soon due to the statement we put out. If not, it still won't take too long for me to contact him personally. He knew Sirin, Fadel’s mother. And he knows me. He certainly knows me better than this lovely young woman knows my grandson. You work at his cousin’s property, am I right?”
“Yes, Khun Kemal,” a few of them say. Good.
Regardless, Kemal continues to his point, “Then you should know that he outranks his relatives. And right now, considering the history, I doubt he wants us having any grief or trouble. So I suggest you all take your leave.”
They file out pretty quickly after that. The only one dragging her feet is Poppy. As for Fadel, he clearly has no interest in her propositions, horse or no horse.
Peach: He said he wanted to keep the promise he made to me. He knows how much I like going to work, so he's letting me go back. He also said I'm his heart. He doesn't want me to lose myself for his sake. How sweet is that?
Meanwhile Thee in the bathroom:
Khun Thee still trying to get a grip Pt. 2/?
Peach and Me - Episode 1
The brilliance of creation goes to @mewsthumbring and kindly tagged by @befuddledcinnamonroll in this post.
*Rules: We all know the gif search on this website/app is a farce. So let’s have a laugh! Pick 5 shows or characters, type them into the gif search bar, and then pick the first gif that comes up in the results.*
Until We Meet Again
KinnPorsche the series
Love in the Air
Moonlight Chicken
Me and Thee
Okay...for some reason two of five actually worked. But the rest...well 🤣 I have nothing else to say!
No pressure tags @takeadeepbreathandexist @pointlesscandies @allthingswhumpyandangsty @feychild1225 @ae-azile @thereisnocontextonlyzule
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Chapter 22 is now up!
Chapter Summary:
Style worries about Fadel and his sleep patterns while Jay remains a steady presence. Leyla and Kemal welcome their new grandson. Lara holds a movie night, but performs a classic switcheroo when presented with a flower bath. Melis and Nya find their codependency shifting into something unexpected. As for Fadel, he wakes up to his life permanently altered.
Chapter 21 of As Long as I Can Travel this World with You is now up!
Chapter Summary:
Style secretly conducts a wedding venue search and buys his man some special gifts. Fadel has his first PR meeting before reconnecting with extended family. Bison saves someone he doesn't necessarily want to interact with while trying not to overthink the meaning of family. Melis and Nya play matchmaker while navigating their blossoming bond. Elif navigates her youngest sister's motives. As for Lara, all she truly wants for herself are snacks.
As Long as I Can Travel this World with You: Chapter 21 Preview
Well…This is more alarming and unexpected than Style anticipated. And the news feels more official with an interpreter giving it to him. Style doesn't know why, but it does.
“Just last night, Sözcü TV and NOW TV aired breaking, late night investigative pieces on the interest surrounding the incident at Sing Sing,” the interpreter relays in Thai as this Azra Koc guy breaks the news in Turkish, “Both networks claimed these stories were prompted by the emails flooding the news stations about the incident and Khun Fadel’s identity. Both pieces used facial recognition software to compare stills from the footage of Sing Sing, and photos from Khun Fadel before he was taken. The reporters relaying the news did give disclaimers. They made sure to note that comparing an adult male face in club lighting to a twelve year old boy would not be a perfect comparison, and that prior positive matches with a similar amount of time passing typically result in a sixty to seventy-five percent positive match. Anything exceeding seventy-five percent when it comes to comparing an adult to a missing child is almost always considered a true positive. The results that the investigative reports gave were between eighty-two and eighty-six percent.”
Style glances over at Fadel and can't get a good read on how he feels about that. At all. So he just holds his hand beneath the table and waits.
“So I am guessing having more mainstream, reputable sources engage in the gossip is fueling public discourse,” Kemal says, his tone steady and down to business.
“That is putting it mildly,” the interpreter says, translating what Azra is saying, “All of the resorts in Turkey have crowds outside, the Sovereign especially. Citizens and resort guests are seeking out management for answers they don't even have. Plane ticket purchases to Bangkok have skyrocketed–from Turkey, but also from other countries. We expect these purchases are from news crews, influencers, international citizens who are very loyal to Demiral properties and take interest in family gossip, notable Turkish families you are acquaintances with, and…mobs of Turkish and international women in the 25 to 40 year old age bracket who are single.”
Style can't help but let out a sound of annoyance. He gets it. He truly does. Fadel is HOT, and he can't blame a solid percentage of the global population trying to shoot their shot. But at the same time, there is no shot to shoot. Fadel identifies as gay, and more importantly? He identifies as STYLE'S. Style is marrying him, even if Fadel gets sassy and claims Style will never ask him to. It's bullshit that they would even THINK of trying to steal his man–
“My canim is taken,” Leyla snaps, “He has a loving partner. You send those women home.”
Style nods in agreement, “What she said!”
“Style,” Fadel sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose until Selin puts a hand on his back.
“What is the conjecture how Bangkok will be now that this kind of report is in circulation?” Selin asks, “What do you think the timeline is on something like this escalating or dying down?”
“Well…the situation is unprecedented,” Azra starts, “It's hard to establish a timeline on how long the public will hold this level of curiosity when…this simply doesn't happen. But I do believe the longer we go without an official statement, the more likely people will start coming up with hurtful and damaging theories. A higher risk will be the public becoming more invasive by digging into private matters, stalking, or trespassing.”
Great. That's…fuck that. No one is stalking his man. Style won't allow it. Fadel will have five guards at all times and a bulletproof vest and Style telling people to get the FUCK away–
“I believe getting a statement out as soon as possible is the best call,” Azra finishes, “For safety and transparency reasons. I know you all were hoping that you would have some time to enjoy each other's company and feel more prepared, but I do think this will just gain momentum.”
“But so will news of my canim’s survival,” Leyla says, “It will make it hard for him to live a private life. We don't want that privilege ripped away from him, especially before he's ready.”
“Anneanne is right,” Elif says, “It might be too soon for him. We don't want to overwhelm him.”
“Elif,” Fadel says, “I am sitting right here.”
“I see that,” Elif says, “Hi, Fadel.”
“Hi.”
“Fadel obviously won't be the only one affected either,” Kemal says, “I don't mind if I get invasive questions thrown my way about this, and our extended family back in Turkey who have publicly known ties to us will be informed of what is going on. Security will be offered if they feel it is necessary. But my main concerns are focused on my grandson, Style, Bison, Keen, and my granddaughters.”
“I don't think Keen will be an issue,” Fadel says, “We barely spend time with him. Maybe once a month, if that.”
“He was still forced into a similar situation, Canim,” Leyla says, “He is still my beloved, adopted grandson.”
“Babaanne, you haven't even met him–”
“He's my grandson!” Leyla says more shrilly, “And I will meet him! Tomorrow!”
Fadel hums, but looks at Azra again and speaks in Turkish. Style tries to listen to the interpreter. He does. But Fadel speaking Turkish is sexy. Regardless, Style knows this meeting is important.
“I am more concerned for Bison,” Fadel says, “He has already been impacted by this. He's happy for me, and I think he feels very cared for and welcomed by my family, but he has been working really hard. He found a job he loves, one that is setting him up for med school. I don't want his career or personal life compromised. And I want Style protected. If even a fraction of what you are saying about…some women wanting to see me…if that's true, and I don't really think it is–”
“Sweetheart, it's intense,” Selin says tiredly, “I looked outside this morning, and it's just going to get worse.”
Fadel doesn't seem convinced, “Maybe Songkran will distract them.”
Style clicks his tongue, “Songkran always distracts me. It's a blast. We gotta go this year, baby.”
“I don't know if engaging in Songkran activities this year will be wise,” Kemal says, but holds his hands up, “I am aware you boys are adults, and you have every right to enjoy yourselves. But precautions would need to be taken, especially with everything going on.”
Fadel shrugs, “Celebrities attend Songkran. I doubt Style and I would stand out if we would go.”
“That sounds like something Melis would say,” Kemal says, “We will…discuss that later. Songkran is not a priority.”
The offended gasp Leyla lets out almost causes Style to laugh out loud, but he manages to hold it back.
“Kemal,” Leyla says harshly, “It was our first year as a couple. I talked about wanting to show you Thailand. You snuck me out of my father's home and whisked me off on a private plane. We met up with my old childhood friends, terrorized the streets with water guns and buckets, and you booked one of the best suites in The Mandarin Oriental, where we made use of the vast majority of flat surfaces in a very satisfying way.”
“Hell yeah, Babaanne!” Style says, giving her a high five.
“Style, please don't encourage her,” Selin says under her breath. But Style could swear that she sounds the slightest bit fond, so he doesn't take it personally.
“Don't be a prude, sweetheart,” Leyla says, “That sort of thing is genetic.”
Selin gives her mother a disbelieving look, “What are you talking about?”
“I am talking about stamina and drive,” Leyla tells her, “Taylan–bless my sweet boy’s soul–he inherited that from me. Before he met Sirin, he had the girls hooked left and right.”
Leyla glances between Elif and Fadel, “So if any of my grandchildren experience those types of urges, they know who they got it from. Their beautiful and vivacious grandmother…and their suave and handsome dede as well. It's one of the many reasons I picked him.”
When Leyla blows a kiss across the table towards her husband, Kemal raises his eyebrows at her but catches the kiss mid-air.
“Fadel,” Style whispers as he leans in, “I love her. Your babaanne is amazing.”
“You heard my aunt,” Fadel whispers back, “Don't encourage her.”
“I can't help it–”
“Well, back on topic,” Azra cuts in, “I believe a statement this weekend would be wise–or possibly during Songkran to strengthen the likelihood of it not being the biggest headline in Thailand. Internationally might be a different story, especially in Turkey and other areas where the Demiral brand is particularly significant. But releasing it when a major event is going on might soften the news here. Slightly. Maybe.”
“You don't sound sure of that,” Fadel says quietly.
“To be honest?” Azra says, meeting Fadel’s eyes, “I'm not sure. This is unprecedented. The public has already latched onto this story. It's trending in several different countries. The only thing I am sure of is that a statement will cause…a huge surge of interest. But in a scenario where a statement is significantly delayed, I see the existing interest festering into more malicious conspiracies about you and your family. I don't think those projections would be good for anyone. I believe April 14th would be the best day to make the announcement. On the one hand, it's a Monday. Sometimes the beginning of the week makes news stick harder, and it becomes a major conversation topic. But on the other hand, it's smack dab in the middle of local celebrations. It might provide some distraction. It also gives you all a few days to prepare.”
Style takes Fadel’s hand at that point, “I will tell Ben and Babe to make out more than usual. They can get their costars to do the same. People go nuts for that kind of fan service. We’ll get through this, baby. We will.”
And even though Fadel is bouncing his leg–thus much more anxious than he lets on–he raises his eyebrows at him in disbelief, “You think everyone will get that distracted by Ben and Babe making out at Songkran?”
“I think those two love you enough to try their very best to make it happen,” Style tells him.
“Style is right,” Leyla says, “GayTok is very popular. I'm surprised my canim hasn't been connected to the viral Style Auto video he starred in a few weeks ago! If they had connected him, those women would not only know my canim is taken, but that he is interested in men. I had a feeling, Canim. I did. Didn't surprise me one bit.”
Fadel seems dubious about that, but doesn't try to argue against the claim. Probably because he's gay.
“Throw that in the statement then,” Fadel says, causing multiple heads to turn, “Say I am in a committed relationship with a man so all of the women outside back off.”
Azra purses his lips, “I don't know if that is wise. For multiple reasons. For one, you live in a country where LGBTQ media is produced and consumed quite heavily, much more so than the rest of the world. If you lived elsewhere…maybe we could explore that route. But I think many women–at least local women–would continue to obsess, although maybe in a slightly different manner. And even if they didn't, I could see male citizens taking it as an invitation to enter the dating pool.”
“Fadel has no dating pool,” Style tells him, allowing the interpreter to translate, “You tell them it's in the midst of a permanent drought, and only one single raindrop exists in his metaphorical canyon. Me.”
“Style, you're a whole storm, and I do mean that respectfully and affectionately,” Kemal says, “That being said, I do agree with Azra. This statement is not the time to give excess information. While formally acknowledging who you are will happen, we are giving just enough information to remain transparent, as well as note the efforts that…Lilly made to make it so Fadel had no safe way to return to us. I also don't want to deal with more male…suitors. For lack of a better term. We have faced those with the girls. I'm not saying women aren't a threat. They absolutely can be, and Lilly is a prime example of that, despite her motives being different. But the men tend to be more forceful and entitled.”
“I will NOT have any gross men try to force themselves in my canim’s space,” Leyla says firmly, “We will protect him just as we protect the girls.”
“We will do our best to enforce strict boundaries, Anne,” Selin says to her.
Azra clears his throat, “While we want to maintain a level of transparency to lower obsessive interest, we don't want to reveal too much and give the public multiple focal points to potentially harass. Naming a significant other probably won't deter the public at this point in time. It will just widen the microscope to include you. We don't even plan on mentioning Bison or Keen with this first statement, despite them facing similar circumstances. We have a separate meeting with them tomorrow morning before the larger lunch meeting with your employees. If they want to get their stories out there, they will have this family’s full support and assistance. The same goes if they want to pursue their parents’ assets and seek acknowledgement and compensation for what they went through.”
Fadel breathes out and looks at everyone at the table, “I'm not doing the legal stuff. I have my name back. I don't have to sign documents with the name Lilly arranged for me anymore. It's fine.”
“...We do not need to make any immediate decisions in that regard now,” Kemal says after a beat, “But we will keep the option open. You told me last night about restitution packages that were drawn up to keep the matter quiet, and that yours was written with wording to try and prevent third parties suing on your behalf or for any collective trauma or collateral damage. That tells me they know you, Bison, Keen, and anyone directly affected by what happened have real legal standing regarding how it was handled.”
“There is also the boy that they labeled as you,” Selin says quietly, “It seems that he died from an illness. Not from being…burned alive, not like the first report we got listed. But they desecrated his body. Lilly most likely took a dying or already dead boy from an orphanage, someone who could quickly be erased from the system. She had the body burned until it was unrecognizable and got medical and government officials to list that it was yours. That boy deserves closure.”
“We have already arranged for him to be buried near our family if his family can't be identified,” Leyla says, “But even if we can't identify a name, he will not be alone, and we will make sure he has justice so he can rest peacefully.”
Selin nods and looks at Fadel, “It was more than just Lilly who hurt you, sweetheart. She had help. And she and those other people hurt us too. We won't make an immediate move. We are focused on you and your well-being. That is our number one concern. But what happened to you, Bison, and Keen was unacceptable. It was abuse and neglect on a large, legal scale. That needs to be addressed. We are also concerned that children and families with less resources could face similar trauma if any of the people Lilly bribed, blackmailed, or corrupted still have positions of power–”
“I don't care,” Fadel says. It's a lie. Even if Fadel doesn't consciously realize he is lying, Style knows it is still a lie because Fadel looked sick to his stomach when he found out about that kid. He looks sick now, probably enough that his family understands they are toeing a thin line.
“We aren't focused on them right now, Abim,” Elif says, “Like Anne said, we are focused on you, making sure you stay safe, and that your boundaries are respected. Don't think about the other stuff today. Just the statement preparation, talking to Baba and some other family, and interviewing some therapists to see if you like any of them. That's all you need to do today. Everything else can wait.”
Style reaches over to stroke Fadel’s back, “The other stuff can be handled by lawyers anyway. Nont got them to extend the deadline to sign on those packages so he could re-negotiate them. Elif is right. Focus on the statement, talking to some uncles, aunts, and cousins, and therapy stuff. Then, you're free and we’ll have an easy night.”
But Fadel shakes his head, “Melis just sent out a required meeting to happen at 7:30.”
Style feels confused, then checks the app for the notification.
HIGH PRIORITY
DEMIRAL/DEMIRAL ADJACENT FAMILY YOGA AND POWERPOINT PRESENTATION
7:30 pm - 8:45 pm
Required Attire/Items:
Comfortable clothes that allow stretching and movement
Required Attendees:
Melis Demiral
Elif Demiral
Lara Demiral
Fadel Kasemsan
Kemal Demiral
Leyla Demiral
Selin Demiral
Style Chayakorn
Bison Phanlert
Kant Pattanawat
Babe Pattanawat
Ben Halvari
Jay Chayakorn
Nya Sinclair
Style squints at the list, “When did Nya get a Demiral family account?”
“I'm asking in the comments,” Elif says, only for everyone’s apps to ping.
Elif: What is this for, and who made Nya an account?
Melis: It's for an important matter, and I made her account! It's a level 2, so relax.
Kemal: You are still supposed to get majority approval, Melis.
Melis: Nya and I use almost all of the same night routine products! And on top of that, we shared a dream last night. So clearly, she is part of our soul circle! I need her for the powerpoint presentation because she is calming and supportive!
Nya: 🩷💙💜🩷💙💜💞
Melis: 🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻🩷🤍🧡🥹
Leyla: Let Nya keep her account for now. She needs friends her own age. She is married to a grumpy, old gay man quickly approaching death.
Nya: All of that is correct! Thank you, Khun Leyla! ♥️♥️♥️
Leyla: You're welcome, sweetheart.
Selin: May I ask what this powerpoint is about?
Melis: Important socio-developmental matters that should be promptly experienced by family and family adjacent members who are ages 22 to 40.
Kemal: Then why are you inviting family members who are no longer in that age bracket?
Melis: Because I know the old people will have something to SAY.
Melis: And because I love you guys ♥️♥️♥️
Nya: She loves you guys so much 🥰
Lara: You should invite Mond.
Melis: …Why?
Lara: Because he's Ben’s cousin. And I am asking you to.
Lara has added a required guest to the family meeting:
Mond Amarin (app invite pending)
Ben: I bet he will come if he isn't busy at the patisserie! He got an early start today despite going to bed late, so he should be good! I love my hia! Thank you for inviting him! 🥰
Style: Yeah! Mond is my bro!
Melis: Why did you make him an account without family approval???
Melis: Wait
Melis: Lara
Melis: Do you finally have a crush?
Lara: Yeah, sure. 🙂
Style lets out a gasp and looks up from his phone, “Fadel! There is love in the air! Lara and Mond might become a thing!”
Fadel just narrows his eyes at his phone and says nothing. Despite being separated from his cousins for two decades, he's still protective. Elif must feel protective over Lara too, since she lets out a disgruntled sound. So grumpy, the both of them! It must be a Capricorn thing. But Style loves Capricorns. He really does. The love of his life is a Capricorn. And Mond! Mond is a Capricorn! His bro! And if Lara puts on the moves, he'll be family. They’ll probably be groomsmen in each other's weddings!
Melis: Wait, are you serious?
Lara: Why would I lie about something like that?
Melis: Because you exchanged like six words max with him last night.
Lara: Sometimes that's all you need.
“Who is this boy?” Selin asks curiously.
“He's my bro,” Style tells her, “Ben’s cousin too, but more importantly? My bro. He owns Patisserie de Siam. And let me just say, Lara has great taste.”
“Kemal, he's gorgeous,” Leyla says approvingly, “I met him last night. And he can cook. We must support this relationship.”
“How old is he?” Selin asks, and Style doesn't miss the way she glances at Elif. Interesting. But he will let her know that a four year age gap is not a huge deal–
“He's 29,” Elif says, then blinks when a few heads turn in her direction, “...Melis did all of our astrology charts last night and put them on a table in birth order. That's the only reason I know.”
“That does sound like her,” Leyla says.
Ben: YOU LIKE MY COUSIN?!?! 🥰😍😍😍🫢
Lara: I said sure.
Ben: That's so cute! I love love! I'll put in a good word, but I won't say anything to him. Not unless you want me to. ♥️
Lara: Thanks. I guess.
Elif: Lara, you literally told me a few weeks ago you would rather slit your own throat than go on a date.
Lara: I would. Small talk is such a bore 🥱
Elif: So why are you doing this?
Lara: Oh, you know.
Lara has edited Required Attire/Items List
+ 1 mango mousse cake and 1 large raspberry macaron for Lara (applies to Mond only, must be hand delivered in a box)
Melis: Your courting tactics are interesting. Why don't you text him instead? I can give you his number. Tell him you really appreciated meeting him, that he was nice to be around, and that you liked his pastries!
Nya: That's really good advice, Mel 🙂
Melis: Thank you!!! See? I give good advice! I'll send you his number and you text him that.
Lara: No thanks
Melis: Lara, you have to do more than send him an app invite through social media and a pastry delivery demand.
Lara: I really don't.
Melis: You DO. Because now I am invested, despite how weird you are. I will reach out to Mond to make sure he knows he is to attend. And I am teaching you to flirt. TODAY. You already have the looks. You just need the right lines, level of affection, and tone of voice! So you will know how to conduct yourself at the family meeting. Since WE weren't invited to the required meeting this morning, we have all day to practice!
Nya: Can I stay to help?
Melis: Of course you can! I wanted you here to help prepare for the meeting anyway, AND for some much needed spa time. You are part of my soul circle!
Nya: Yay! 😄
“So are we all in agreement to release the statement on Monday?” Azra asks, pulling everyone from their phones.
“Hm,” Kemal hums, but looks at his grandson, “Fadel?”
Fadel breathes out, then puts his phone on the table face down, “...Okay.”
Kemal nods, looking just the slightest bit teary, “Monday then. Let's take fifteen minutes. Stretch our legs, decompress, then come back for a couple calls. Unless you want to keep any conversations going, we will make sure they know the calls will be kept short.”
“I’ll text Baba so he knows we will be logging on soon,” Elif says, sounding slightly annoyed as she stands up. Style supposes that's understandable, if her father cheated on her mother.
But even as everyone double checks with Fadel before they take fifteen, Fadel doesn't move, and Style stays right next to him.
“You okay?” Style asks, reaching up to stroke his hair. Fadel just shrugs before looking over at him.
“You don't have to stay.”
Style tilts his head, “I want to.”
“You really don't have to,” Fadel says before letting out a sigh, “I don't know how every family member I am talking to is going to react to me coming back after so long. I don't want you to feel like you have to protect me or defend me–”
“I always feel like that!” Style says, “That's my job, Fadel! You're my partner!”
“I'm aware,” Fadel says, sounding suspiciously calm, “Because it's my job too. And while my more immediate family has been very accepting, I don't know how the others will be. Melis said Uncle Arman didn't love it when she came out to him, and I guess when his…his other daughter came out as trans, he didn't love it either. He didn't disown them, but he wasn't waving a pride flag when he was told.”
“Well, did anyone give him one beforehand?” Style asks, “Probably not! It might have just been about not having the appropriate props.”
Fadel huffs out a soft laugh at that, but then pulls Style in for a gentle kiss, “I love you.”
“I love you more,” Style says, “Which is why I want to be here for you!”
“I appreciate it,” Fadel says, “And I would normally say yes. But…if anyone even looks at you wrong, I might tell them off. I would rather just tell them you exist, answer any questions they may have about you, and deal with any potential awkwardness or homophobia without you having to sit there for it.”
“But I love homophobic people,” Style says softly, “They make me laugh. I’ve told you this.”
The corner of Fadel’s mouth quirks up, so Style kisses it and waits for Fadel to change his mind.
“Let's hope none of them are homophobic,” Fadel says, “Go enjoy your day. Get some work done while you still can. You can probably sneak out without anyone spotting you.”
…Work is tempting too. And so is getting a better look at what is supposedly going on outside. But still, he wishes Fadel would let him stay.
“You’ll tell them how handsome I am?”
Fadel seems slightly amused by the very serious request, “Sure, Style. If Babaanne doesn't beat me to it first.”
“She's spicy!” Style says before glancing around, “You must get that from her. Genetically.”
And while Fadel doesn't seem to love that idea, he doesn't deny it either.
I know it's been a bit since it aired and I watched it as it came out, but I have been tempted to write a meta on the autistic-coded traits of Thee from Me & Thee and how they make him so interesting and unforgettable. Honestly, if it were directly stated, his character would be fantastic representation for how to write a strong, comedic, and complex autistic character without relying on frequent stereotypes. Maybe I will actually write it one day.
Getting this notification reminds me why I fully left the Queer as Folk fandom years ago. Stopped writing in it at least 8 years ago, picked this story back up after 3 years due to people requesting it, faced hate again and thought, "This is a very toxic space and I don't face this in other fandoms." This comment comes over five years after I last updated. I decided to answer it because it did not bring me the same frustration and annoyance as I felt before.
Getting this notification reminds me why I fully left the Queer as Folk fandom years ago. Stopped writing in it at least 8 years ago, picked this story back up after 3 years due to people requesting it, faced hate again and thought, "This is a very toxic space and I don't face this in other fandoms." This comment comes over five years after I last updated. I decided to answer it because it did not bring me the same frustration and annoyance as I felt before.
