Chapter 8
LaylaTehran
January 2001
It was strange to be back at Azad. The corridors were a
whirlwind of faces and voices and bright lights; it made my head spin, as if
I’d been away for a long time and forgotten what school was like.
The first person I went to see was Mina. She was at her
desk, preparing lessons.
“Layla!” She pushed back her chair and rushed to
embrace me. “How are you holding up, azizam?”
“I’m OK. I’m sorry you’ve had to cover for
me.”
“It’s been no trouble at all. Look, it’s good to
see you, but wouldn’t you rather be at home? I can take your classes again
this week.”
“That’s kind, but I’m sure you’re busy.”
“It would only be for a few days. The girls are on
that field trip on Thursday.”
Keyvan would be at his art class, so there was no hope
of seeing
