MATAR HAIDAR

About this Novel

They are gathered in the living room, currently under renovation, the air conditioning providing a refreshing breeze. The space is adorned in shades of red, from the large chairs to the room's curtains and the central carpet where they sit. The woman, smartly dressed, seems deeply engrossed in her work. Beside her, a young boy, no more than two, dressed sharply in a black shirt and trousers, his lustrous hair falling freely as he plays with a toy car. Not far from them, a young woman in a floor-length maroon hijab remains fixated on her phone, seemingly oblivious to her surroundings. The atmosphere is warm and familial, voices laced with affection and comfort. The boy playing with the toy car catches sight of someone at the door and excitedly exclaims, "Daddy's here!" The man, elegant in his ash-colored suit and black shoes, enters with a gentle smile. Tall and fair-skinned, he has striking features, his face exuding a natural charm. The boy rushes into his father's arms, joyfully exclaiming, "Daddy, I missed you!"