Amal Unbound

Asif, the young male teacher at the literacy center, assumes that Amal wants to learn to read. When he understands that Amal is educated and that Jawad is using her as “window dressing,” he insists that the villagers still need the center. Amal warns that people will not come because they are frightened of Jawad. Though Asif declares that the center’s funding comes from the government, Amal knows the villagers do not care. Asif pulls out a computer and Amal watches with alacrity. Asif notices her interest and begins to teach her computer basics. He offers to find educational software for future visits. Amal is thrilled to be learning again.

Amal helps Fatima read a simple book that Amal borrowed from the literacy center. Fatima is proud of her progress. Amal feels that by teaching Fatima to read, Amal is helping her mentally escape the estate. Two different police officers arrive and inquire after Jawad. Nasreen insists she does not know Jawad’s whereabouts, but she will give him their message. Upset, Nasreen hurries to make phone calls after the men leave.