Chapter Forty-Two: The Past Returns

After months of trying to settle in Germany, learning the language, and working at the programming center, Aboud decided to take a big step in his career. He sent his résumé to several software companies in Berlin, and to his surprise, one of the big companies responded positively.

They contacted him to schedule an interview. Aboud was excited, but he knew this opportunity could be the key to his new future. Still, he was curious—why had such a prestigious company accepted him so quickly?

Aboud (thinking to himself): "This is my chance to start a new life... I need to be ready."

Aboud prepared well for the interview, dressed formally, and headed to the company, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. The company was located in a tall, modern building in the heart of Berlin, its design reflecting elegance and sophistication, which only added to Aboud's anticipation.

He arrived early at the big company in Berlin, carrying high hopes for the interview. This was his chance to turn his life around for the better. After all the challenges he had faced, he knew this interview could be a turning point. But what Aboud didn't know was that this meeting would bring surprises he never expected.

When he arrived at the company's office, he approached the receptionist, who greeted him warmly and directed him to wait in the meeting room. The atmosphere around him was calm, but he felt a bit of internal tension. He sat, trying to calm his nerves, preparing himself for every possible question that could come his way.

Aboud (to himself): "This is it, the opportunity I've been waiting for. I need to be ready for anything."

Aboud had no idea that the meeting would be with the CEO herself. Minutes passed before the door quietly opened, and a woman in her twenties entered. She was elegant and striking, but she carried an air of seriousness and authority.

Aurora had a commanding presence. Her sharp blue eyes reflected a rare confidence, and her long dark hair was perfectly styled. She wore a professional suit that enhanced her polished appearance, but what caught Aboud’s attention most was the mysterious look in her eyes, as if they held secrets yet to be revealed.

Aurora (firmly but with a slight smile): "Aboud, right?"

Aboud raised his head, ready to answer. But before he could speak, he noticed something strange in her eyes. For a moment, when Aurora saw his name, her expression shifted ever so briefly. It was as if something about his name struck a chord with her.

Aurora (to herself): "Aboud... that name... and he's Syrian? My father mentioned someone by that name. Could it be him?"

Aurora had heard the name before. Her father, Grigor, a central figure in her life despite his secrecy and mysterious past, had once spoken about someone named Aboud. She didn’t know much, but she knew that Aboud was somehow connected to her father. She felt a moment of internal confusion, but quickly regained her composure to continue the interview professionally.

Aboud (smiling slightly): "Yes, that’s me."

Aurora began the interview in a typical, professional manner. She asked questions about Aboud’s experience, his programming skills, and how he thought he could contribute to the company. Every answer he gave was filled with confidence and determination. He was trying to present his best self, knowing this was not the time for hesitation.

Aurora (seriously): "Tell me, Aboud, how did you get started in programming? What drew you to this field?"

Aboud (smiling with determination): "It started when I was young. I’ve always been fascinated by technology and old phones. Then, when I arrived in Turkey, I had the opportunity to learn more through programming centers. I realized that this field could be my path to a better future."

Aurora (thoughtfully): "I see... It sounds like you have a strong drive. That’s good."

Although she was listening to Aboud’s answers, Aurora’s mind was occupied by the distant memory of her father. She knew she had to remain calm and not show any sign of her internal confusion. She wasn’t ready to confront Aboud about anything related to Grigor at this moment.

As Aboud talked about his experience, Aurora replayed that night in her mind when her father, Grigor, had mentioned someone named "Aboud." He hadn’t told her everything, but it was clear that Aboud had been significant in some of the work her father had done.

Aurora (thinking to herself, while looking at Aboud): "What was my father doing with you? And why are you here now?"

She had no intention of revealing her suspicions to Aboud at that time. Instead, she decided to keep the interview on a professional track.

After about an hour of questions and discussions, Aurora felt she had gotten to know many aspects of Aboud’s character. She was sure of his skills, but she couldn’t shake the lingering doubts about his connection to her father.

Aurora (calmly): "I think that’s all for today. I’ll review your résumé and we’ll be in touch in the coming days."

Aboud (smiling slightly): "Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you."

Aboud stood up, ready to leave, but he noticed that look in Aurora's eyes. There was something odd, something he couldn’t quite place, but he felt that this interview had not been entirely ordinary.

As Aboud walked out of the company, he felt a mix of confusion and curiosity. Why did he feel that there was something off about the interview? Aurora was strong and professional, but he sensed there was something more beneath the surface.

Aboud (thinking to himself): "Did she know me from before? Maybe it’s just a feeling."

Meanwhile, Aurora sat in her office after Aboud left, pondering her next move. Aboud was a mystery she needed to unravel.