We sit eating Chinese food. You young, beautiful and vivacious full of a zest for life, me interested in your story, fighting to remain detached.

Your American accent intrigues me. Educated in an American school in Pakistan you exude the sophistication of a modern western girl. Your head is uncovered your manner warm and free. “I love the west, I am free here not like in Pakistan. I will wear a head scarf later in life”. Will you I wonder and if so will it be of your own choice or due to family or societal pressure.

You love your freedom but are constrained by fear, “I got drunk five times, I won’t do it again as it disrespects my parents”. There are many good reasons for not getting drunk, I think but not offending one’s parents comes low down the list.

If you return to Pakistan you will, almost certainly marry according to your parent’s wishes. I hope your vivacity will not be crushed under the weight of a boorish husband. It is your affair, I should stay aloof but the stifling of the individual in the name of culture or religion revolts me.