Chapter Nine
by testsuphomeAdminIn Chapter Nine of *The Breadwinner*, Parvana unexpectedly encounters her former classmate Shauzia in the market. Initially taken aback, Parvana soon learns that Shauzia has adopted the name Shafiq for her work as a tea boy. Shauzia needs to return to the tea shop, promising Parvana she will come back. As Shauzia blends in with her surroundings, Parvana reflects on their past interactions at school, realizing they were never particularly close. However, the sight of her friend brings a sense of excitement.
Once they reunite, Shauzia offers Parvana dried apricots, a rare treat, and they discuss their circumstances. Shauzia reveals her brother has been missing since going to Iran for work, and her father has died. Parvana shares her own misfortunes, mentioning her father’s arrest and the lack of news regarding him. They share their experiences in the tea trade, with both expressing hopes for a better income. Shauzia suggests that they collaborate on a new venture to increase their earnings, such as selling goods from a tray, but they struggle with finances to start this new endeavor.
As they walk towards Parvana’s home, she invites Shauzia to visit. Their interaction evokes memories of schooldays, and with nostalgia, they talk about their teachers and classmates. Upon reaching her home, Parvana’s family welcomes Shauzia warmly, highlighting the sense of community despite the ongoing hardship. Shauzia discusses her living situation, revealing the challenges she faces at home with her sick mother and a contentious family environment.
Mrs. Weera proposes the idea of starting a secret school for girls, which intrigued the group, leading to laughter and momentary relief from their struggles. The chapter closes with Parvana and Shauzia discussing daily life and their hopes for the future, but it foreshadows emerging challenges when Shauzia speaks of a potentially lucrative but undesirable opportunity for making money, leaving Parvana unsettled.
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