Page - 14 - in Tina and Amir & Ella - English

5 10 15 20 25 30 14 “How did it happen?” I asked. Nadim explained: “It was a car accident. Nothing particular, but my leg was broken. Now I have a plate and screws in my right leg. Are you coming outside?” “No, I’m not allowed.” I told them. Now my mother shouted: “Whom are you talking to?” I told her that Nadim and Tina were standing in front of our house. I heard my mother open the door. I rushed out of my room. Nadim and Tina were already in our apartment. “Why is Amir not allowed to go outside?” they asked. My mother smiled, but did not answer the question. I was embarrassed that my mother did not let me go outside. “You are welcome – come in.” I heard my mother say. We went to my little room. “You know”, Nadim said, “My mother is anxious too, so I just have to call her and ask her if I can stay.” “That’s ok, but my mother is just unfair – can you imagine suddenly she thinks it is too dangerous for me to go outside – I do not want to be treated like that – I am not free in this house anymore.” I said. “Adults often do things that they think are best.” Tina mur- mured. “I’m only free when my parents are not at home, then no one tells me what to do.” Nadim said thoughtfully. “My brother always tells me what to do – he wants me to follow his rules, but I am only free when I follow my own rules.” Tina said. “I know your brother. Last time he just wanted to prevent you from getting hurt.” Nadim said. “But it is not his business to take care of me. He should not tell me what to do.” Tina replied furiously.