08-15-2020, 12:03 AM
Kemala did not slip unseen into common rooms. She hovered on the threshold to the larger room where the edge of conversation tickled her ears. She grazed through the tables, blue batik skirt sweeping as she walked. A rumble fluttered her stomach and she unconsciously fingered the knot of her shirt twisted against her abdomen. The top was cut in a sweetheart neckline and decorated with a flower and butterfly print. Her hair was twisted into a tight bun, but it was only lightly wet at the back of her neck. She avoided washing it when necessary, and the showers in the hostel were bizarre.
Clearly, she was a traveler. She felt eyes follow her as she surveyed the meal offerings. That everyone else were also plucked from far-away places, there was no mistrust among strangers. However, nobody else was dressed so lightly. She ended up with a bowl of warm fish soup, a wedge of bread, and mint tea, all of which were enjoyed near the fireplace.
Naturally, she listened to the story being relayed at the adjacent table, but when the tale came to its climax, she was likewise enthralled as the others.
Clearly, she was a traveler. She felt eyes follow her as she surveyed the meal offerings. That everyone else were also plucked from far-away places, there was no mistrust among strangers. However, nobody else was dressed so lightly. She ended up with a bowl of warm fish soup, a wedge of bread, and mint tea, all of which were enjoyed near the fireplace.
Naturally, she listened to the story being relayed at the adjacent table, but when the tale came to its climax, she was likewise enthralled as the others.