Summary

In "Four Minutes," Leila recalls watermelon, and with it the memory of a summer holiday with her family. Aunt Binnaz was pregnant. Along with her uncle and his family, Leila and her family took a trip. All the children slept in a separate room. During the night, her uncle crept into her bed. He told her to be quiet, and began touching her. He asked if she trusted him, telling her she was his favorite. Eventually he came, and then blamed and threatened her if she were to tell. His abuse continued for years.

Back in Van, Leila fell ill. Haroun called the Lady Pharmacist, a woman who disagreed with their family's habits and beliefs. Her son, Sinan, sat next to Leila's bed and comforted her. This was the start of their friendship.

In "Sinan's Story," Sinan grew up with...