Sahara, a kind-hearted girl from Lebanon, moves in with her wealthy aunt in Turkey after her parents go missing in Syria. Despite initial warmth, she faces challenges adjusting to her new life, particularly with her cousin Emel's rude behavior. Sahara's empathy and generosity shine through as she helps others, including a boy at school and the household staff. Tensions rise when Emel accuses Sahara of trying to steal her fiancé, Murat, leading to Sahara being sent away. Years later, Murat finds Sahara at university and confesses his love for her. They reunite with Aunt Rabia, who is now ill and gives them her blessing. The story ends with the joyful news that Sahara's parents have been found.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The narrator, Sahara, was born in a small town in Lebanon.
2. Her parents were both doctors who worked with a charity and treated patients for free.
3. At the age of 14, Sahara's life changed when her parents went missing in Syria.
4. She was sent to live with her aunt, Aunt Rabia, in Turkey.
5. Aunt Rabia is extremely rich and lives in a large mansion with her daughter, Emel.
6. Sahara started school in Turkey and met a boy named Murat, who is Aunt Rabia's friend's son.
7. Murat and Emel were engaged to be married when they turned 20.
8. Sahara met Murat's fiancée, Emel, who is her cousin.
9. Emel is arrogant and treats the servants poorly.
10. Sahara befriends the cook, who is worried about her sick son.
11. Murat pays for the cook's son's treatment.
12. Sahara and Murat bond over their shared experiences and values.
13. Murat calls off the engagement with Emel and confesses his love for Sahara.
14. Emel is furious and accuses Sahara of stealing her fiancé.
15. Aunt Rabia sends Sahara to live with her cousins in another city.
16. Sahara works hard to get a scholarship and enters a good university.
17. She meets Murat again, who has been looking for her.
18. Murat confesses his love for Sahara and tells her that Aunt Rabia is sick.
19. Sahara visits Aunt Rabia, who is weak and sorry for taking Sahara away from her.
20. Aunt Rabia gives Sahara her blessing to be with Murat.
21. Aunt Rabia reveals that Sahara's parents have been found and will fly back the next day.