THE GATE
The sun was hot by the time they reached the old street. The clinic gate was rusted, half covered by vines. It looked empty, but a man sat by the side with a small table. `We are here to ask questions,` Boma said. The man looked up slow. `No one comes here now. The place closed long ago.` Amara stepped forward. `We only need to see old papers. A child’s record.` The man shook his head. `I do not keep papers. I only watch the gate.` Amina stayed behind Zainab. She did not want to be seen. Zahra’s heart beat fast. This was the place her mother came to. Zainab walked up to the table. `Please sir,` she said soft. `My sister was lost here. We only want to know the truth.` The man stared at her. Then his eyes moved to Zahra, just for a second. He frowned. `You look like someone.` Boma qu
- Writer
