20. HIS MEMORIES

"So you're coming to the party at Raiha's tomorrow, right?" I listened with half an ear to Saad going on beside me and slumped on the couch. After getting free from academy, I would usually come here with him and others for a joint and then spend the rest of our evening here, in the cafe.

"Can't. Busy. Cousin is coming." I returned distracted and didn't turn to catch the haggard look on his face.

"Who's this special cousin that you're skipping such an important highlight for? The only cousin I know you have is Hania or the one in Gulf—but isn't she older than you—?" Before he could continue, I cut him off irritated.

"Not her. The younger one. Apparently she is going to stay here for her A-levels." My voice trailed off as an image of that weird kid in hijab flashed across the screens of my mind; whom I had last met, almost 8 years ago. Unintentionally, the corners of my mouth lifted up in a smile.