“Noor’s mother wore black and the air was scented with gardenias when they stepped out of the house. They crossed the road holding hands, making their way to Uncle Ali’s house across the road from their own. As her mother adjusted her loose veil, Noor heard her whispered prayers. There were cars in the driveway of Uncle Ali’s house, some parked on the curb. Noor heard a sparrow singing on the branches of the tree ahead.”
Extract from ‘Eye of the Garden’ – included in the showcase
