Page 28 - Leadership in the Indian Army

With this, Mariam sensed a shift in the atmosphere. Her parents stirred
in their seats. Mariam could feel them exchanging looks.

"That's not a good idea," said Nana. Her voice was calm, had the

controlled, polite tone she used around Jalil, but Mariam could feel her
hard, accusing glare.

Jalil shifted on his chair. He coughed, cleared his throat.

"You know," he said, "the picture quality isn't that good. Neither is the

sound. And the projector's been malfunctioning recently. Maybe your
mother is right. Maybe you can think of another present, Mariam jo."

"Aneh, "Nana said. "You see? Your father agrees."

* * *

But later, at the stream, Mariam said, "Take me."

"I'll tell you what," Jalil said. "I'll send someone to pick you up and take

you. I'll make sure they get you a good seat and all the candy you

want."

"Nay. I want you to take me."

"Mariam jo-"

"And I want you to invite my brothers and sisters too. I want to meet

them. I want us all to go, together. It's what I want."

Jalil sighed. He was looking away, toward the mountains.