His wife, the love of his life, was six months pregnant, and he couldn't wait to meet his son.
After a successful shopping spree for baby clothes and nursery decorations, he eagerly anticipated showing his purchases to his wife.
As he pushed open the door of the shop, a gentle night breeze greeted his face. The weather was exceptionally pleasant, tempting him to take a leisurely stroll along the Nile, just a few blocks away.
Besides, he craved a taste of grilled corn from one of the food carts there, envisioning himself savoring the treat while gazing at the water.
Leaving the shopping bags in his car, Selim decided to walk instead of drive to the Nile corniche to enjoy the weather.
With a hum in his heart, he embarked on the short journey, his mind filled with thoughts of his wife and their soon-to-be-born son.
Suddenly, a shiver ran down Selim's spine, and an eerie feeling of being watched washed over him.
He quickly turned around, but there was no one in sight. Was it just his imagination playing tricks on him?
Convincing himself that there was nothing to fear, Selim continued his walk.
From the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of the Nile corniche and the vibrant street vendors filling the area.
They sold an array of delectable food, refreshing beverages, and colorful flowers, catering to the many couples scattered around, lost in their own world of love, life, and dreams.
Selim smiled as he approached his destination, but suddenly, something made him freeze in his tracks.
The voice belonged to a woman, and it possessed a captivating beauty. However, to Selim's surprise, there was no one there.
He scanned the area, noticing a few alleys between the buildings. Could the woman be hiding there?
Against his better judgment, Selim closed the distance between them. As he approached, he could see her more clearly.
She wore a flowing white dress, and she was pretty. No, pretty didn't do her justice. She was just as beautiful as the moon at night.
"Are you alright? Do you need help?" he asked, genuinely concerned.
She remained silent, but a subtle smile began to form on her lips. Selim was so captivated by her face that he failed to notice her arm extending toward him as if beckoning him closer.
Suddenly, Selim's knees gave way without warning, causing him to collapse to the ground. The world around him became hazy as if enveloped in a thick, white fog.
Before everything faded to black, the last image etched into Selim's mind was her grin—a wide, toothy grin that signified he was now under her control and there was no going back…
