Giovanni was the kind of man whose curiosity often led him into trouble. As a child, his wide-eyed wonder had gotten him caught sneaking into forbidden websites or eavesdropping on adult conversations. It was during one of those moments that he overheard the truth about his adoption—a revelation that left a permanent mark on his inquisitive soul. But as he grew, that same curiosity became his greatest asset.

By 23, Giovanni had become a household name in journalism. His words had the power to paint entire worlds, and his relentless drive to uncover the truth earned him degrees from prestigious colleges and stamps from nearly every corner of the globe. Now, his next destination was Istanbul, a city of minarets and mosaics, where ancient traditions met modern life. Despite being a devout Christian, Giovanni had immense respect for other religions, and he was determined to show the city in a light that reflected its beauty and complexity.

When he arrived, the city overwhelmed him. The call to prayer echoed through the streets, mingling with the chatter of vendors and the scent of roasted chestnuts. His camera was his shield and compass, capturing every vivid detail: the swirl of saffron in a market stall, the intricate tiles of a centuries-old mosque, the playful laughter of children chasing pigeons in a plaza. He was lost, but not in a bad way—until he reached into his pocket for a fresh memory card and froze.

His wallet was gone.

"Fu—" he muttered under his breath, his stomach sinking. He spun around, scanning the bustling crowd for any sign of the thief. Before panic could fully take hold, he felt a light tap on his shoulder.

Giovanni turned, and his breath caught. Standing before him was the most striking woman he’d ever seen. Her eyes, deep and intelligent, seemed to hold the city’s history within them. She was dressed modestly, her headscarf framing her face like an artist’s brushstroke. And in her outstretched hand, she held his missing wallet.

“Thank....thank...you" *he says breathlessly