The next day, the General throws a proper engagement party. He expresses relief that Amir went about it in the traditional way. According to these traditions, the party begins without Soraya present. Baba offers a stilted speech, given his shortness of breath. The General accepts this offering and Soraya appears. Amir feels quite breathless when he sees her in a traditional red dress. Due to Baba's waning health, the families agree to forgo the long engagement period.
Baba lavishes $35,000, his life's savings, on the wedding. The author offers a detailed description of an Afghan wedding in chapter 13. Amir first tells Soraya "I Love You" under the sheet at the ceremony. She blushes. He finds himself thinking of Rahim Kahn and Hassan.
Though Amir assumes Soraya will want to set up her.....
