The Saviors of Sokhna
The sky was bright blue, and the weather was perfect for the beach. Luckily, that’ s exactly where Farah and Fares were. Mama and Baba were eating at the small café on the sand, while Farah and Fares lounged in front of them under one of the large, beach umbrellas. Farah was carefully applying sunscreen to her face and arms, while Fares was looking out at the sea.
Before them was a dock where pedalos, jet skis, and boats were tied up. It was deserted, Fares realized, looking at it longingly. He bet he could race one of those jet skis. Only, he was sure Baba wouldn’ t agree. If he took one, Farah would want one as well, and she was just too young to drive it.
Drawing circles with his fingers in the sand, Fares remembered what Mama told them at the end of the two hour drive to Ein El Sokhna.
“ Because both of you achieved such good grades, Baba and I decided to spend the day in Sokhna as a treat for you. But, remember, don’ t swim too deep in the water – the Red Sea is famous for its sharks!”
Fares sighed. He thought the day would be exciting, but so far they hadn’ t done more than look at the few other people and walk along the beach. Mama and Baba hadn’ t even brought their swimming suits, so he was stuck with Farah all day.
Just as he put his cheek on his palm, suddenly, two little boys about six years old with matching red swimsuits raced past him. Fares’ eyes followed them, glancing at the key in one of
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