Member-only story
Love on the Rocks
A Love Too Strong to Swallow
Being often sick as a child because of the foggy, wet climate made me stronger, and I had my own ways of dealing with sickness.
Although it was dry in Egypt, I suddenly fell ill. My new boyfriend grew anxious.
“May I bring you some medicine?” he asked. Pharmacies in Cairo often have a doctor on staff with access to a wide range of medications.
“No, not at all. I prefer to have a high fever for a day or two — it helps me recover faster.”
He tried in vain to change my mind; he didn’t understand our family traditions.
“But at least let me bring you something to drink. You must drink a lot of liquid when you’re sick!” he insisted.
“Oh yes!” He had reminded me of my favorite powdered drink for colds. I told him exactly where to find it in the kitchen.
He returned quickly but empty-handed. “There’s no more left! I’ll run down the street and get it for you. I’ll be back in a second.”
And he was. I heard the door close behind him on his return, then the clinking of a spoon as he mixed the orange powder, rich in vitamins. Too weak to get up, I waited impatiently, hoping he wouldn’t take too long.
