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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