Chapter 15-16: Stupid Cat, Sitara Summary and Analysis

At the end of February, the USS Cole arrives on Lebanon's coast in support of Lebanon's government against Hezbollah. Rumors fly about the increasing likelihood of war.

Shibil and Assaad, who did not leave after all, become fast friends. They are sympathetic to each other's misery and don't try to cheer each other up. But even Shibil has his limits as Assaad continues to obsess about this backstabbing family. He wonders how loyal Assaad could be to him (Shibil) if he calls his cousin a whore. Assaad can find no good in Lebanon, not even a free meal, but keeps postponing his departure. He finally sets a date, but reveals his true fears: He has no home and no restaurant in America, and he doesn't know what he'll do. He's already planning a...