One

Fall 1952

So, then. You want a story and I will tell you one. But just the one. Don’t

either of you ask me

for more. It’s late, and we have a long day of travel ahead of us, Pari, you

and I. You will need

your sleep tonight. And you too, Abdullah. I am counting on you, boy, while

your sister and I are

away. So is your mother. Now. One story, then. Listen, both of you, listen

well. And don’t

interrupt.