The lunchroom was noisy with its usual chaotic energy, a symphony of clattering trays and overlapping conversations. Zaid was picking at his food, the weight of his empty wallet a heavier burden than any tray. The 300 dinars were a necessary sacrifice for his channel's integrity, but the reality of losing that amount was a bitter aftertaste.
He didn't notice Tariq approaching until the lanky boy was standing awkwardly beside his table, shifting his weight from one foot to the other.
"Hey, Zaid. Can we talk?" Tariq's voice was less nasal than the day before, but still carried a hint of his cold.
Zaid looked up, surprised. "Sure. What's up?"
Tariq sat down, not making eye contact. "Look, about the camera... you don't have to pay for it. It was my fault. I wasn't focused because I was si
