Golden Bird

Sara shook her head sadly, and said, “No, I don’t believe that’s possible, Yasmine.” But seeing the child’s face drop even more, she added, “Maybe you could visit me in America.”

Yasmine’s face brightened at the idea. “Yes, I will make Rashid take me.”

Sara’s face clouded at the mention of his name.

“Rashid will miss you also.”

“I don’t think so, sweetie.”

Just then Hassad arrived, with a much refreshed David following closely behind. Sara went to him and put her arm around him. She steered him to Yasmine.

“This is my friend from America. His name is David.”

David stuck out his hand, and Yasmine boldly stared at him for a moment before taking it.

“I am honored to meet you. I am Princess Yasmine al-Ahmal.” she announced, quite formally.

“And I am equally honored, Your Highness.” replied David, matching her formality, then departing from it with a wink.

Not knowing how to react, she ducked her head, suddenly shy.

“Don’t tease her, David.” scolded Sara. “She’s not used to being around any men other than family or servants.”

He looked up at her, hurt by her tone and she was sorry she had spoken so harshly. She pleaded for forgiveness with her eyes and gave his hand a squeeze then she turned to Yasmine and hugged her once again.

“Good-bye, little flower, I will miss you.” She kissed the child on her bare cheek (she was still young enough not to be required to wear a veil).

Yasmine nodded. “Peace be with you, and may God grant you a safe journey,” she said, trying to contain a fresh onslaught of tears. “I will never forget you.”

“I won’t forget you either, kiddo, and I’ll be expecting your visit.”

Yasmine nodded, her chin quivering. “In sha Allah, if God will.”

“Yes,” agreed Sara, “If God will.”

In respect for their customs, Sara donned the black cloak over her jeans for the ride to the airport, but shrugged it off as soon as they entered the plane. It was a clear night and the moon was bright. And as the jet took off into the air, she looked down at the desert below. She thought she could see a figure, alone on the dunes, and a tear rolled down her cheek.