Page 167 - A Woman Is No Man

never visited because she’s angry with you for sending her away? That
seems entirely possible.”
“I don’t see any reason for her to be upset,” Fareeda said, bringing the

cup to her face. “It’s marriage, not murder.”
“I guess, but then why hasn’t she visited?” Deya turned to Khaled,
waited for him to say something. But his eyes remained fixed on the
television. She turned again to Fareeda. “Have you ever tried to reach out?
You know, to ask if she was upset, or maybe even to apologize? I’m sure
she’d forgive you after all these years. You are her mother, after all.”
Fareeda’s face grew pinker. “Apologize?” She set her teacup down with

a thud. “What do I have to apologize for? She’s the one who should
apologize for never calling or visiting after everything we did for her.”
“Maybe she feels like you’ve abandoned her,” Deya said, keeping her
voice innocent and light.
“Khalas!” Khaled stood up, glaring at her. “Not another word. I don’t
want to hear her name in this house. Never again. Do you understand me?”

He stormed out of the room before Deya could respond.
“You know, it’s obvious,” Deya said.
Fareeda turned to her. “What’s obvious?”
“That Seedo feels guilty.”
“Seedo doesn’t feel guilty! What does he have to feel guilty for?”
Deya kept her words vague. “For forcing Sarah into marriage. For
sending her to Palestine. He must feel guilty. Why else would he be so

angry?”
Fareeda didn’t reply.
“That must be it,” Deya said, leaning closer. “Is that why you’re always
on the verge of tears whenever I mention Sarah? Because you didn’t want
her to go? It’s all right. You can tell me.”
“Enough of this!” Fareeda said. “You heard your grandfather.”

“No, it’s not enough!” Deya’s voice was sharp. “Why can’t you just tell
me the truth?”
Fareeda sat up and grabbed the remote. “Is that what you really want?”
“Please.”
“Well, then,” Fareeda said, gritting her teeth. “The truth is, I had no
trouble sending my daughter away, and I certainly won’t have trouble doing
the same to you.” She turned her attention back to the television. “Now get

out of my face. Go!”