The lights change and I follow him into St Pancras. When he reaches the check-in desk, I hover at a good distance. He goes through the barrier and, just before he disappears around the corner, he looks back. He does not appear to see me, continues on his way. Or perhaps he did see me and the blankness in his eyes is the blankness we all carry deep within us towards those we love. I go to stand by the live Departure boards. His train might be delayed or even cancelled. After several announcements, calling passengers to board, the good minute goes. I picture him stepping on to the train, the doors closing behind him, and the heavy carriages rolling out."
-- Narration (chapter 4)

Importance: When Khaled watches Hosam leave to go to Paris, it encapsulates Khaled’s characteristic stance as an observer rather than a participant. Even in his most intimate relationships, he...