Christophe spoke first.
“So, you are both Jordanian and Palestinian?”
“Why do you feel the need to add Palestinian?”
“I don’t know. I’m sure it is of some importance to you” Christophe said.
“Indeed it is,” she agreed.
The elevator stopped. Christophe continued.
“Why is it important to be Palestinian?”
“Why is it important to be French?” Yasmina answered back.
Their conversation was taking an odd turn. Christophe remained silent.
They sat at a small table. She complained about the broken air conditioner and untied her hair slowly. Finally, she gave him a smile. Christophe had read about the sura an-Nur, the “Light Verse,” in an article about Muslim fashion. Women’s hair must be covered so as not to draw men’s attention: “And tell the believing women to reduce lower their eyes…and
