Nothing about this mission had gone as planned. I’d imagined I would sneak in, find Anna, sneak out, and leave with Niko. But it’s said that...
There was no way I could challenge the security forces on that island and survive. Our plan, therefore, was based entirely on stealth.
People walked in every direction, tarp-covered carts sold street food, young men washed windshields with dirty bucket water, well-dressed black women performed manicures in makeshift booths,...
I put a hand over my eyes, shutting out the bright sunlight. I felt like crying or shouting. No, I told myself. Pray instead. Pray. Allah...
Panic badgered its way into my mental haven of tranquility. Not my arm! These barbarians were going to hack off my arm! I struggled to get...
My eyes kept coming back to four words: “critical but stable condition.” My scalp prickled and the hair stood up on the back on my neck...
The sun was going down. Safaa had never called me back. I should go home and rest, but I wanted to pursue this lead. My wounded...
How does one live with the knowledge of recent events and still celebrate Ramadan? How does one connect with her or his spirituality, let go of...
I resolved to be done with Badger. Yes, Amiri was one of my oldest friends. But he was on an express highway to self-destruction, and I...
I was heartened by Badger’s prediction that Safaa and I would reunite. He possessed deep insights. His prognostications always came true, a fact that I could...
