The Other Side of My Pillow

As the dinner went on, the tone of conversation slowly changed, as war became the subject of our conversation. I lost my appetite as soon as my mom’s and dad’s eyes met, I knew that a dreaded subject about my safety was about to begin. I knew my parents were worried about our political situation and the fact that I was an only child didn’t help either. Few months ago an idea for me to go away and finish my last semester of school abroad came up, and as much as I would push against it, my parents would be more for that idea as the time went on.

Baby, your mom and I had talked and decided that the best option for you would be to go to New York for the next three month, just so that this situation can come to some stability.

Dad! Does it not matter what I think any more, does it not matter that this is the best part of my school and life ever. All my friends are here and I want to graduate here, with them. I can’t believe that you are doing this again right now, you know how much this means to me- I said.

Alma, this decision is final and I as much as you don’t like it, we still have to go that way. Can’t you see how dangerous it is to be here right now, I am sure that if some of your friends had this opportunity they would take it, in a hearth beat.

But, I…..

There is not buts Alma, please just understand that this is how it is right now, we are doing this because we love you, both mine and your moms lives would end if god forbid something was to happened to you.

Alma baby, your dad went through a lot of hassle to assure that you are able to leave the city, the borders are closet and I just want you to go away for a little bit and come back as soon as the situation settles a bit.

My mom said, came from behind me, hugged me and kissed me on my forehead.

What your mom said is right. I had a patient come yesterday and begged me to sign a peace of paper saying that his son is ill so that he can get papers to leave. It is amazing how scarred people are and we have to get through this, but I made it possible for you to be away and avoid this tormenting situation.

Dad, mom… I want to be only where you are, where my friend are, where Amir is, this is my country, I love my country and the faith of my people is also my faith, I wouldn’t want it any other way. –

I started shouting and tiered up in trying to express my feelings to them.

There was silence there for few moments and I felt sorry for raising my voice at my parents, but they thought me to stand up for what believe and they knew that. After few minutes of not looking at my parents, afraid of my mother’s tears or that my dad would ask me to go to my room, I looked at my dad as he walked towards his office and my mom running after him. I didn’t know what was happening as I had never seen my dad be so pers