Chapter 21 Summary

'Omar tells Amal he is attracted to Cousin Isabel but feels too old to "take her on." Isabel is determined to make love. Amal avoids talk of Isabel's epiphany in the old house and announces she will move to Tawasi. 'Omar thinks this is crazy in August, but says he may be in Egypt later in the month. Amal does not ask why or whither, assuming his phone is bugged as an ex-member of the Palestine National Council (PNC).

Layla records Anna's wedding night. Anna sits still as long as she can, but when she begins circulating, people are charmed. Sharif's gems match her eyes precisely. Mabrouka burns incense and mutters incantations all day as Anna dresses. Men's and women's reception are separate, with the children moving between. Layla observes from upstairs the whole cabinet is present. A poets' corner develops. Political enemies...