CHAPTER 23

We are currently in Italy. Ismail and I are having dinner outside at this beautiful restaurant. The sky is so beautiful, with all the stars shining so bright. I am wearing a satin burgundy mermaid gown. This is our last week in Italy. We spent the first two weeks working and the last week is spent like a vacation.

“So, I have been meaning to ask you,” I say while eating my steak.

“What?” Ismail asks.

“How long have you known Udar was in love with Fatima, and you didn’t tell me?” I ask trying to sound indignant.

“Why?” Ismail says chuckling, “Am I supposed to tell you that?”

“Yes, you are supposed to tell me,” I reply, “Because… we’re friends,” I say realizing it is true. Having gotten to know Ismail better over the past weeks and especially during this trip, we have gotten close, and I enjoy his company more than I ever thought I would. When I think of how