Forbidden Collection
If I worked hard, maybe I could move up, earn more, build something better for us.
By 7:17 the house was stirring. I hurried downstairs to the kitchen, tying my apron as I went. I memorized the weekly menu Zainab showed me yesterday. Today was scrambled eggs and toast—simple enough. I pulled out the eggs, cracked them into a bowl, whisked them with a little milk. The stove was fancy, all sleek buttons and digital displays. I stared at the electric lighter, pressing the button over and over. Nothing. Frustration bubbled up; back home Aunt Clara’s stove lit with a match. This one just clicked uselessly.