[All of that means that Kalim likely missed the soft exhale of relief coming from Jamil, the slight twitch of his lips that, if asked, Jamil would deny...in part because he didn't know that he was doing that. But Kalim was excited and happy (about the kitchen, of all things) and things are starting to feel right again.
Jamil follows, a half-second too late, a half-second too slow, contemplating the way Kalim carries himself - like the world is full of wonders and he belongs - and then Jamil very carefully stopped contemplating anything of the sort. Things he would contemplate instead: how to keep Kalim busy in the kitchen without having him cook. Why had he invited Kalim to the kitchen?
(Because he hoped it would make Kalim happy, that's why.)
...questions Jamil would never know the answer to, he knows.
Things he would contemplate: what he could make with chicken that was quick. Things he would contemplate: how many side dishes he should make this time.]
If I didn't know better, I'd assume you are hungry, Kalim.
[Things he didn't want to contemplate: whether or not they'd encounter other students. But he would. One of them had to.
...it's fine. Side by side as equals and rivals.
Kabsa would be easy enough.
...he lengthens his stride ever so slightly, maybe forcing Kalim to catch up to him, or maybe matching Kalim's enthusiasm and energy stride for stride. He isn't sure which.]
Who are you tutoring?
[Is it someone from Scarabia, or some bozo from a different dorm...how defensive should he feel? Much to consider. Much to know.]
okay you know what legit
Jamil follows, a half-second too late, a half-second too slow, contemplating the way Kalim carries himself - like the world is full of wonders and he belongs - and then Jamil very carefully stopped contemplating anything of the sort. Things he would contemplate instead: how to keep Kalim busy in the kitchen without having him cook. Why had he invited Kalim to the kitchen?
(Because he hoped it would make Kalim happy, that's why.)
...questions Jamil would never know the answer to, he knows.
Things he would contemplate: what he could make with chicken that was quick. Things he would contemplate: how many side dishes he should make this time.]
If I didn't know better, I'd assume you are hungry, Kalim.
[Things he didn't want to contemplate: whether or not they'd encounter other students. But he would. One of them had to.
...it's fine. Side by side as equals and rivals.
Kabsa would be easy enough.
...he lengthens his stride ever so slightly, maybe forcing Kalim to catch up to him, or maybe matching Kalim's enthusiasm and energy stride for stride. He isn't sure which.]
Who are you tutoring?
[Is it someone from Scarabia, or some bozo from a different dorm...how defensive should he feel? Much to consider. Much to know.]