In 2016, I said:
“This arrangement is actually VERY weird; it withholds the long and lengthy traditional engagement process until a certain condition is met. [In Zeynel’s case] The husband here is technically ‘booked’ and has to prove his worth to both the families.
I felt like their specific situation (a family friend visiting but not just to look for a suitor for the eldest) as well as their own unique relationship with each other would allow this outcome to happen anyway. They trust each other and know what’s up with Ayse and Zeynel both. Of course it doesn’t mean it isn’t an outcome that would be removed from questioning and its full context; if I manage to do a larger backstory for Ayse and Zey, it would be one of those things I want to address. But for now, for Zeynel’s story it’s something I gotta leave behind…”
Yeah gang I am STILL witholding the who-knows-if-it-will-ever-release prose spinoff of TCM.
Efraim presents them with the verdict, to Zeynel. “Very well, then. Your mother and I will let you stay here until Eid, but…”
He pinches the bridge of his nose, and sighs. “This is all very last minute. I don’t like to do this, I’m sorry, but you’re lucky Selim and I have a history. We’ve all agreed to put the engagement on hold…”
“If it works out, Ayse, with her approval, will allow you to be her husband. If not, we’ll take you back, and give her a better chance. I don’t want to waste her time. Agreed?”
Ayse nods. “I understand.”
Efraim gently asks Zeynel, who is mentally processing the conditions proposed. “Memo, do you understand?”
Zeynel looks up, still nervous and in disbelief at how well this situation has gone. He replies, “I understand.”
Efraim approaches his son and pats both hands on Zeynel’s shoulders. “So it is.” He looks up at his not-so-little boy. “I hope you know what you’re doing.”
To Efraim’s surprise, Zeynel pulls him in for a deep hug, weeping gentle, grateful tears. Efraim sighs and wipes the tears from his son’s eyes. “Oh, and… please don’t slack on your studies.”
Zeyneb is more open with her affection. She proudly cuddles her boy and scratches the back of his head. “You did it, baby! I’m so proud of you. Good luck. I love you.”
Zeynel smiles warmly. “Thanks, an-ne. I love you too.”
With everything settled, the deCordobas (except Zeynel) make their departure.
Standing between Ayse and Selim, Zeynel watches his family leave. He is on his own now, for the first time, with the freedom to weave his life’s tapestry in the coming year. He is overwhelmed.
Without warning, Selim bursts into joy, slapping the back of his newly-acquired apprentice. “Well, good job, boy! Welcome to the family!”
Zeynel blacks out, unable to function emotionally any more.
