Mariyah's Blog

As the noon sun shone brightly on the market chasing shadows from their hiding places, Alexandra stood as though she was frozen. She was directly opposite a café when she noticed Ghassan suddenly rise from his table. As he made his way toward the flower stand beside which she was standing panic rose in her like a torrent. She quickly moved to behind the stand and was startled by the movement of the elderly merchant who had, until that moment, remained unnoticed by Alexandra. The old woman smiled sweetly at the startled girl before moving around to the front to aid her other customers, who now included Ghassan. Alexandra peeked between the brilliant bouquets – Ghassan was less than two metres from her. If she moved even an inch, he would be sure to see her.

Alexandra’s mind was racing. What would she say to him? What if he was angry that she didn’t call? What if he refused to speak to her? All of a sudden she was aware of his voice as he began an exchange with the merchant. Its deep, silky tones coupled with the mysterious accent enchanted her once again. His courteous manner with the elderly woman – he was so kind and respectful – alleviated some Alexandra’s fears. She took a deep breath and emerged from behind the flowers. Ghassan had his back to her as he spoke to the merchant which enabled her to move to his side unnoticed. Slowly, she placed a shaking hand on his arm to get his attention.

“I’m sorry I didn’t call, Ghassan.” Alexandra wasn’t sure that the words had actually left her mouth. Ghassan turned with a look of bewilderment but when he recognized her, a gentle smile crossed his face. He looked up to the skies, as if to heaven, briefly before looking at her again. In the sunshine his eyes glowed like pools of smoky quartz and, at that moment, Alexandra felt as though she could drown in them.

“You’re here now.” He said kindly and placed his hand upon hers. “You must have known these flowers were for you.”

Ghassan reached for the flowers being held by the merchant and presented them to Alexandra. It was a lively bouquet with a glorious scent. Alexandra blushed as Ghassan placed them in her arms. She wasn’t sure she deserved such a lovely gift.

“Thank you, Ghassan.” She said shyly.

“You are very welcome. Shall we walk together?”

Alexandra had been on her way to the library earlier but now the thought of studying – being hunched over a carrel with her books – seemed like the last thing she should be doing today. In fact, if Ghassan had suggested they leave town and he whisked her off to some distant land, Alexandra would not have resisted.

“A walk would be nice.” She replied quietly.

Ghassan indicated that she should lead and he would follow. They walked in silence from the busy marketplace and entered the neighbourhoods. To Alexandra it was like walking in a dream. The sun bounced off of every surface of the street illuminating the grey stone houses that had seemed pale and dreary in winter. She watched as women swept their front entrances and washed their windows. She spotted a man delicately unearthing some tender shoots in his garden from under the withered growth of the previous year. All the while she was completely aware of Ghassan’s presence. His shoes tapped the sidewalk rhythmically just behind her and the subtle, spicy scent of his aftershave hung around her like a blanket of masculinity. She found herself inhaling deeply.

“I wonder, Ghassan, if we are meant to bear the winter so days like today seem like heaven on earth?” Alexandra said dreamily.

“Today is a beautiful day for so many reasons.” He replied.

Alexandra turned to look at him and found his eyes looking intensely upon her. Her heart skipped a beat. She had never been in love before but she could certainly imagine that she was not far from being completely consumed by it. And yet, the illogical nature of it all – he being a complete stranger she knew nothing about – kept pecking at the comfortable lining that this strongest of emotions had woven around her heart. She felt so wonderful with Ghassan and yet so completely terrified.

“Where are you from Ghassan?” Alexandra surprised herself at the question that blurted from her mouth. “I mean…if you don’t mind me asking.”

“Why would I mind, Alexandra?” Ghassan asked simply. “I’m from Damascus.”

“Damascus.” Alexandra repeated. “I’m not familiar with that part of the world, I’m sorry to say.”

“Then let me show you my world.” He said softly and without waiting for her response hailed a nearby taxi. Before Alexandra could enter the taxi, Ghassan had quietly instructed the driver. Her head was spinning with excitement. Where could he be taking her? What did he want to show her? What in Stuttgart could explain his world to her? She slid into the backseat beside Ghassan. He smiled brightly at her like a child with a thrilling secret. As the taxi headed off Alexandra silently reminded herself to breathe.