WE SHOULD FEND FOR EACH OTHER. ALIA, DECEMBER 19, 2006
- Put your foot down. - Why? You have your foot up, too.
So it's tit for tat?
What tit for tat? Just let me be!
Put your foot down. You can't sit like me!
You have your foot up, too!
- He can do what he wants. - I can do what I want, too!
Hush!
Hushing us won't make her feel you're more of a man!
Hush us one more time and I'll tell your mom you skipped school.
How much did you have to save to buy her a ticket?
Or is this your private tutoring money?
Way to go!
Hey, guys! Stop talking or leave!
Leave? No, it's too hot outside.
Don't force us to call security.
No need. Let's go.
It was a bad idea anyway.
Come on!
Take this.
SIX DAYS, WHO HAVE WE BECOME?
19.12.2006, MOVIE "DONIA" TICKET PRICE: LE 15
- Let's go? - Yes.
To "Cairo Central Station."
That won't happen. You can watch it on your own.
I have a feeling that film you suggested will be a disappointment.
If you don't like it we'll go to the one you suggested.
If we have money for both movies what are we fighting about?
Are we fighting now?
What are we doing then?
Arguing?
Debating?
You're so old-fashioned. You sound like my grandma.
Alright, we'll watch "the hostage"
I hope it's good.
Way to go! Stop debating!
As you wish, grandma.
Let's go. We don't want to be late.
Let's go where? And what will we be late for?
In case you didn't notice, the private class should've ended 30 minutes ago.
And we need to study. The exam is on Thursday.
No, but... Alia... it is...
It is what?
Alia, you'll be moving to the back of beyond in 10 days!
And in those 10 days, we have neither school nor private tutoring.
We agreed that today we'll sit and think what to do.
- We watched the movie. - The movie you wanted!
Well, and I agreed.
I did agree. Sorry... I wanted to watch it even more.
But please let's stay one more hour.
And I promise tomorrow we'll study the entire geology syllabus together.
I know it by heart anyway.
Alia, we can't just end the outing that abruptly.
What is this supposed to mean?
Hello...
Yes, Dina.
This is Alia. Is mom around?
What's all this yelling?
Who is mom yelling at?
What? What clothes? I don't understand a thing!
Listen, Dina... I only have one minute in the card.
When mom is done yelling...
Tell her I went to a friend's house to get my geology notebook from her.
So?
I'm hungry.
You scared me!
Thank you.
This one has 28 ringtones. It records and its battery is...
I don't care about those features.
I just want a phone that makes and receives calls.
I see.
What's the maximum your dad can give you?
Well...
No, we're asking to know how much we'll need to save.
Alright...
This is the cheapest one I have. It's for LE 350.
You won't get a landline before two months.
Add to that the hassle of talking without getting in trouble.
We're blowing the whole thing out of proportion.
Are we?
So you have no problem if we don't see each other...
Or even talk for two months?
I can go mad if we don't talk for a week.
But I have an idea.
Drink the rest.
No, I don't want to. Thank you.
You don't want to because I drank from it?
Alright.
So what's your idea?
Today, I'll try to know from dad the exact address of our new house.
Tomorrow, we skip school and go there.
To know how long it takes to get there and for how much...
And explore the area.
But what do we explore?
There must be a kiosk around the corner or a nearby coffee house.
Places I can call you from or meet you at.
This is a brilliant idea!
- This juice is great... - Hush!
Hush!
Looks like the rest of the film was so funny.
I suggest they tell us what we missed.
I'm the one who hushed you at the movie theatre...
Not him.
No way!
Does this mean you'll tell us what happened in the rest of the movie?
Wait.
Which school do you go to?
El Qawmiya Language School...
Listen, dude...
When you grow up, you'll know that what she did is an insult to you.
Man up!
Let's go!
What if one of those stones smashes a car window?
What do we do then?
You can vent in that football game you'll be playing.
But don't vent too much so you don't get an injury.
When your dad comes back from pilgrimage and knows you play football...
It will be a big deal.
Alia, it was only right that you leave and I handle it.
Handle what? Didn't you see how they looked?
And you were on your own.
Why did you stop?
You didn't notice that we're almost home?
Do you think I'd be happy if they beat the hell out of you?
Alia, I should be the one fending for you!
We should fend for each other.
Tomorrow we do our plan.
I'll skip a whole school day for that plan.
You owe me a lot now.
Skipping school won't hurt you. You're a geek.
I'll give you a ring when mom sleeps.
If the coast is clear at your house, call me.
Alright.
- Bye. - Bye.
- Who is it? - It's me. Open up.
- Did mom ask about me? - No.
What's this?
- How are you, uncle? - How are you, sweetheart?
What's going on?
Go to your room and see if anything isn't packed.
I only packed the stuff in closets and drawers.
Why are you packing? What's going on?
I told you to tell her, didn't I?
We're leaving tonight. We're not spending the night here.
How can we leave, mom? And where to?
We'll leave. We're moving now.
How come? We're supposed to go to the new house by the beginning of the year.
Mom, I'm talking to you! Tell me what's happening!
We'll stay at your uncle's until we go to the new house.
Pack your things!
Why? I need to understand!
Will dad come with us?
Your dad has nothing to do with this!
I need to understand!
Shut up and do as I say!
NOTHING CHANGED EVEN THOUGH EVERYTHING CHANGED, YOUSSEF. DECEMBER 19, 2013
Here or straight ahead?
Here is good.
Thank you.
Goodbye.
Excuse me, is the dentistry conference here?
You can ask at the reception.
- Just a second, doctor! - Yes, come in.
You're going to the conference, right?
Yes... I am.
Okay.
We were in the same class last year.
Dr. Khalifa's class.
Yes...
Hend...
- My name is Hend. - Nice meeting you.
- Hend El Qadi. - I'm Youssef.
I know.
Good morning, doctors.
We just learned that Dr. Adel El Shenawy has an emergency and won't make it.
This means that the first session will be in two hours with Dr. Omaima El Akkad.
Thank you.
Excuse me, doctor, do you know of a breakfast place around here?
"December 19, 2013"
Good morning.
Are you ready to order?
Well, yes...
Can I have a cappuccino and... You serve breakfast, right?
Yes, I'll get you the breakfast menu.
Do you want to add anything else now?
Yes...
Can I have water?
Cold or room temperature?
Alia?
Alia Borhan?
Right?
Alia, I am Youssef.
Youssef Rahmy...
We were schoolmates. I am Youssef, Alia!
Youssef, how are you?
- How are you doing? - I'm good.
What a nice coincidence!
It's a very strange coincidence.
A one in a million coincidence.
This is the first time I come here.
What are the odds?
Do you have work here?
No, not work...
I am attending a dentistry conference here.
You're a dentist?
No, not yet.
I will be hopefully soon. I'm in my last year.
- Hopefully soon. - What about you?
I've been working here for a few months now.
I'm very happy to see you.
Me too...
I'm very very happy.
I'll go get your order.
Of course, go ahead.
- Excuse me. - Of course.
- I got this. - Here you go.
- Sorry. - No worries.
I remember you didn't like cold water.
Yes, I like it at room temperature.
This is the breakfast menu in case you want to eat.
Of course.
Alright... excuse me.
Alia!
When do you finish work?
How come you never told me this?
What could I tell you? That my dad cheated on my mom?
That he flirted with his customers at the store and hooked up with them?
It's a shameful thing.
I understand what you mean.
But why are you telling me now?
Now is different. I grew up and became insolent.
But I don't get it. Did your mom think that when you move that would be it?
That your dad would change?
I don't know. I'm not sure what she thought of then.
But I remember when we left the house and went to my uncle's...
I overheard them speaking and she told him...
"I am glad I got divorced away from our neighborhood."
But I understand that as a woman...
She wanted to leave the neighborhood because of the women there...
Who knew about what dad did.
That's normal.
What about your dad? Do you still visit him?
No...
It's become a burden and I haven't been able to deal with him...
After the divorce.
Before that I thought mom was the evil one.
She was the one who always yelled, cursed, and argued.
And he, poor thing, was always silent.
But when I grew up and put myself in her shoes...
I felt thankful she didn't kill him.
Number 73!
- Sometimes I feel that... - Number 73!
- That life is... - Are you number 73?
You turn.
Yes, 73...
- That's us. - I'll go get the sandwiches.
Alright.
- We'll continue talking. - Yes, we will.
I'm number 73.
But I didn't give up easily.
I tried every possible way.
The final attempt was on the last day of exams.
- It was the geology exam. - I remember.
I submitted the exam sheet 15 minutes after the exam had started.
- Seriously? - Yes.
I wanted to make sure I'd see you.
I rushed to the classroom where you took the exam...
I stood there, waiting for you to finish.
I was restless and kept pacing.
And all invigilators and teachers who walked by gave me a piece of their minds.
But I didn't care.
I was adamant.
I waited because I wanted to give you a piece of paper I had.
I wrote the times we could talk...
So I can reach you after you...
After you moved.
That's it.
I waited...
Then students starts coming out...
Until there was no one left in the classroom.
And you never showed up.
I was surprised.
I didn't understand.
- It's nice. - Yes.
Very nice.
Thank you.
I feel everything that happened was in your best interest after all.
You became a dentist.
Looks like I was the one who brought you down.
You?
How come? On the contrary...
- Can I tell you a secret? - Yes.
In my last high school year...
I got 62%.
Wait...
You're in your last year at School of Dentistry?
Yes.
- So you're a doctor, right? - yes, I am.
This is a doctor's tie.
I swear I'm a doctor. I look more so when I button my shirt.
This is actually the secret.
So what happened?
Russia...
What does this mean?
Russia... you know, that cold country.
- Russia. - Yes?
For dad, me becoming a doctor was a matter of life or death.
I had to become a doctor.
It wasn't debatable.
He knew that with my grade I can study dentistry in Russia for a year...
Then go back to Egypt and enroll at the School of Dentistry.
So, he used his savings and sent me there.
I didn't know he loves you that much.
Loves me?
Well, yes...
Maybe...
Why are you saying "maybe"?
Because I don't know if he did that because he loved me...
For real or loved something inside him.
That doctor thing is his own dream...
Not mine.
And when he couldn't achieve it himself, he decided to...
To bequeath that dream to his children.
He made my sister study pharmacy and made me study dentistry.
That's it. So here I am...
Making his dream come true.
But it is thanks to him you became a doctor.
Yes...
Thanks to him.
What did you want to become?
I don't know.
You like that doctor thing, right?
Just kidding.
Actually I am really thankful. It's a good degree and...
It gives me many opportunities abroad.
So, I'm thankful.
I've been talking about myself...
And about Russia...
And my dad and dentistry... But I haven't asked you a thing.
This is very rude of me.
Now, you tell me... What did you do about university?
I have a Bachelor from the School of Commerce.
- Really? - Yes.
That's very good.
You thought because I work as a waitress...
I didn't go to college, right?
I did?
Not at all!
It didn't even cross my mind.
You were the top of our class.
So how could you not go to college?
- I'll go to the bathroom. - Of course.
Of course.
Dr. Youssef!
- What a coincidence! - Hello.
What are you doing here?
Nothing... I was eating.
Okay...
You know? You were actually right. Today's session wasn't useful at all.
- Really? - You didn't miss anything.
Alright, thank God.
Do you need a ride?
No, I'm good.
I can drop you off at the closest spot.
No, I'm good. Thank you.
- Are you sure? - Positive.
Alright...
- I'll see you tomorrow then. - Yes.
- Alright. - See you tomorrow.
- Excuse me. Bye. - Bye.
Goodbye.
Youssef!
Do you want us to stay here? Or better go for a walk?
Better go for a walk.
I feel you're taking Egyptian girls for granted...
Now that you met Russian girls.
This is very true. How do you know?
Natasha changed my...
- Natasha? - Yes, Natasha.
What's wrong with you? Does Natasha sound funny?
No, but most likely you met that Natasha at a Red Sea resort not in Russia.
No, why? Her name is Natasha.
Are you sure?
No, I'm not sure.
I told you before you can't make jokes.
You didn't even think for a second.
Of course I didn't. Natasha sounded so fake!
- You never thought Natasha might exist? - Never!
Youssef and Natasha didn't sound...
Like a real thing.
To be honest, there was no Natasha. There was only Okasha.
Okasha sounds more logical.
Yes, Mahmoud Okasha was my flatmate and we swapped socks.
This is a more credible story.
What about you?
Did you have a Natasha or Okasha?
Were you dating someone?
At university?
No, at university all my dating attempts failed.
But yes, I have someone.
You didn't notice at the start?
No, I didn't. Are you serious?
Yes.
It's a classical engagement ring.
- No, I didn't... - This is a regular ring.
I didn't notice.
Maybe because I saw the other ring...
So I thought this one is a regular ring, too.
This is good news. Congratulations!
Thank you!
So who is he? And when did it happen?
Mohamed, my cousin...
This was...
A while ago.
So he's the son of the uncle I knew?
Yes, but Mohamed is not like him at all.
Mohamed is low profile and kind.
And he loves me.
- That's good. - That's what happened.
That's nice. Congrats!
- Very nice... - Thank you!
No, don't twist facts!
What did you say back then?
Back then I told you "The Hostage" is a better move.
Exactly! You said "The Hostage" is better than "Cairo Central station."
You have a bad taste.
This is the truth.
Alright, "Cairo Central Station" is better.
- So "Cairo Central Station"? - Yes.
- Deal? - Deal!
No way!
Wait a second.
I still have the movie ticket.
Remember I used to collect movie tickets?
Yes, I do.
I remember that ticket very well.
Because it was the last time I saw you.
I remember the date.
It was December 19.
And today is...
The first day in the conference...
December 19... it's the same day.
I swear it's the same day!
What a coincidence!
What's this? How come?
So what does this mean?
I don't know. Maybe it's the apocalypse?
Seriously, how is this possible?
How come? Running into you today is a miracle in itself.
But running into you on the same date I last saw you...
This must mean something, right?
I don't know.
- But it's strange. - Very!
This is the first time something like this happens to me.
Me too.
It's very strange.
You know what's even stranger?
That we run into each other after all those years...
And we talk normally as if we saw each other yesterday.
That's right.
You feel like nothing changed...
Even though everything changed.
- I am sorry I have to... - Yes, sure.
- I'll pick up and be back. - Alright.
I'm sorry. I'll be back right away.
Alright.
Hello.
Yes?
Yes, all is well.
No... yes, I know I'm a bit late.
I was in a session.
And we had a discussion after.
Yes, I am alright.
I swear I'm in the street, dad.
Don't you hear the traffic?
Alright... yes, I know.
I do know... alright.
Yes, alright.
Goodbye.
Sorry about that.
No worries. I have to go anyway.
- Now? - Yes, I live far away.
Stay for some time. It's still early.
Days are short in winter.
I get it.
Alright, I'll take those back.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
By the way, I'll be in the same place tomorrow... at the conference.
Tomorrow is Friday, my day off, and I go out with Mohamed
I see.
I understand of course.
I do.
That's good so I can catch up on what I missed in the conference today.
Alright...
- I'll return the glasses. - Alright.
Excuse me.
So?
I want to make a deal with you.
What? What deal?
Speaking of December 19...
Every year... if we both can...
Let's meet.
If you want.
Every year?
Alright...
- That can work. - Alright.
Then we have a deal.
Let me walk with you.
- No, I have to... - Why? I'll cross the street with you.
I take a shortcut from here then take a microbus.
It's easier for you to take a taxi from here.
Okay.
- Goodbye. - Bye.
WE SEE THE WORLD FROM OUR OWN PERSPECTIVE.
WHEN WE SEE IT FROM EACH OTHER'S PERSPECTIVE WE'RE SHOCKED.
ALIA, DECEMBER 19, 2015
Hi, Dina.
How are you?
Yes, I'll come to the hospital.
I'll meet someone first then catch up with you right after.
Alright, dear. Do you need me to bring anything on the way?
Alright.
Okay, I won't be late.
Goodbye.
Yes!
Alright! Just a second. I'll be out.
Just a second! I'm using the bathroom.
Alright! Coming!
Alright! I'm using the bathroom!
What were you doing inside?
I was using the bathroom.
But this door doesn't lock.
I didn't know.
- Hello! - Hello!
Sorry I'm late.
No worries. I just got here anyway.
What's this?
- What's this outfit? - What do you think?
Wait! This is...
Let me sit down first.
- Flight attendant, right? - Right.
- You're a flight attendant? - Yes.
You would've known had you not deactivated your Facebook account.
You're right. My bad.
I deactivated the account a few months ago.
I can't deal with the headache.
- You get me? - I do.
So, how long have you been in this job?
Since you deactivated your Facebook.
- How accurate! - Yes, I made sure it was.
And it happened all of a sudden?
No, not all of a sudden of course.
I prepared for this for a very long time.
I took English courses and...
I applied in several places but it didn't work then...
By sheer coincidence I got to know that someone knows someone...
Who is married to a woman whose sister works at that company.
- So, a round about way... - A very round about way.
Yes, it is, but it wouldn't have happened any other way.
That's right.
- You look happy. - Yes, I'm very happy thankfully.
How about you? How have you been?
Are you happy?
Yes, I am.
I am happy. I am very happy actually.
You just look tired.
Looks like you don't sleep well. Do you have a lot of work?
Well...
Yes...
A lot of work... something of the sort.
You're the one who must have a lot of work.
You must fly a lot.
So tell me, how many countries have you been to so far?
Not a lot actually.
I'm still new so...
I've been going to nearby countries like Lebanon, Turkey, and Cyprus...
And the like.
What about you? Where do you work now?
- Me? - Yes.
Well...
I work in many places, not a single place.
You can say that I am...
I am gaining experience.
But you can open your own private practice, right?
Private practice? Yes...
Yes, I can do that.
Excuse me!
Sorry I didn't ask what you want to drink.
Or what do you want to eat?
No, I can't eat.
I can have juice.
Alright, what juice?
- Guava... - Alright!
Can we have two glasses of fresh guava juice?
We don't have guava.
- Do you have strawberry juice? - Sorry, we don't.
Then what fresh juices do you have?
I have lemon, orange, and cantaloupe.
- I can have orange juice. - Orange juice it is then.
Two glasses of orange juice please.
- Alright. Anything else? - No, thanks.
He's so glum.
- He's giving you strange looks. - Really?
- Yes. - I didn't notice.
I wonder what's wrong with people.
So, how's your father doing?
- My father? - Yes.
Well...
He hasn't changed a lot. He's still the same.
Isn't he looking for a wife for you?
A wife?
Why? Do you have someone for me?
Of course I don't.
But I understand how he thinks.
Your sister got married so it must be your turn now.
No, I don't think this is a priority for him at this stage.
- Youssef. - Yes?
You still have the price tag on your...
Yes...
- Wait... - No, it's...
- I go t it. - What are you doing?
- Wait! Not with the knife! - That's fine.
- You'll hurt yourself... - No, I won't.
Or you'll tear the sweater. Wait, I have a nail clipper.
- Alright. - Come here.
I'm sorry.
Sorry for what? That's nothing.
I forgot it most likely.
- It's done. - Or maybe...
I was happy to buy it.
- Sorry. - It happens.
Youssef?
What's wrong?
What's happening in your life?
I feel you're not yourself.
No, why? I am doing well.
But I feel you're not doing well.
No, Alia, I am...
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
Just a second! Why isn't the juice cold?
It's fresh, ma'am.
I don't get it. What do you mean "fresh?"
So fresh can't be cold?
It's fine. No problem. Can you bring ice cubes?
No, please wait, Youssef.
Is fresh not supposed to be cold?
Sorry, maybe my coworker forgot to add ice.
Exactly! Your coworker forgot the ice.
So don't make it sound like fresh juice is normally not cold.
It will be much easier if you take it back, right?
Aren't those the rules of your job.
- I'll get you another one. - Thanks a lot.
Wait a second...
So you want to stay here? Or shall we go for a walk?
- I think better go for a walk. - Yes, go for a walk, right?
- Then let's go. - Alright.
Thank you.
Thanks.
So I...
I left the house a year ago.
You mean you ran away?
Ran away?
"Ran away" sounds funny, but yes you can say so.
Let's say I ran away.
Yes, you ran away.
So where are you staying now?
Where am I staying? I'm staying in many places.
Depending on circumstances and how much money I have.
But now I'm staying...
In a filthy room...
In a filthier apartment...
With four students in Giza.
And every day there is a water outage.
There's been no water for the past two days.
I didn't know how I could meet you today.
So, it's my fault now?
No, it's the water's fault.
But we could've skipped today like we did last year if you wanted.
Well...
I wanted to see you.
Alright.
Regardless of this emotional manipulation...
No, I am serious. I really wanted to see you.
Can't I see you?
No, you can. And here we are.
Don't you want to tell me what happened?
Why did you run away?
It all started when I got a residency in Dahab...
- After I graduated. - Dahab?
- Yes. - That's far.
Yes, that's what I felt at the start.
I thought why would I go there but on second thoughts I felt...
It wasn't bad.
It was a chance to get away for a bit.
And at the time I wanted to apply for immigration to Canada.
So, I thought it was a good opportunity.
- You proceeded with the immigration? - Yes, I did.
I proceeded a bit.
I thought it was better to prepare for it there away from stress...
And the pressure dad put on me.
That was it, but...
Anyway, when I went there...
I discovered a much more important thing.
I discovered that I hated my life.
That I lived all my life...
Moving through a path I did not chart for myself...
And had nothing to do with.
I was making someone else's dreams come true...
Not my dreams... and that I didn't have to continue in that path.
Listen, Alia... my life was like a prison.
I always felt I was tied up.
I was like a donkey pulling a cart.
You know the donkeys that pull carts?
They put blinders on their eyes so they can't look right or left...
And just keep looking straight ahead.
And I didn't want to keep looking straight ahead.
When I removed the blinders, I discovered how big the world is.
How spacious...
And there are endless paths that can make one happy.
A path you can choose and feel at ease in.
A path you decide to walk through.
- Do you get it? - No.
- No? - Honestly no.
- Are you serious? - Yes.
What exactly happened in Dahab?
I decided not to be a doctor.
What did you decide to be?
I am still exploring.
I worked in five or six jobs.
I worked in coffee houses...
And centers...
And street cafes. I did everything.
I went around a lot.
I met all types of people and I made friends.
Real friends for the first time in my life.
And for the first time I felt I belonged to a place.
Why are you looking at me like this?
How am I looking at you?
Like this... like my father looks at me.
- I do? - Yes, you're giving me the same look.
He gave me the same look when I told him.
What you did must've been outrageous for him.
Yes, that's very true.
And he did stand in my way.
Yes, he did. Listen...
I've always known he's cruel.
That wasn't new.
And he's controlling and a dictator but...
But for the first time I got to know that he is...
That he's not a good man...
He's unstable.
He's an oppressor.
I mean...
He reported me to the police.
He claimed that I did something I didn't do.
He stopped my life there.
I couldn't work and I didn't know where to go.
I couldn't start a business.
I tried to leave Dahab and go to Noweiba.
And I still couldn't do anything. I was insulted and treated unfairly...
All this because of him. And why?
Because I chose to live the life I wanted...
Not the one he planned for me.
That's it and...
He eventually won.
I had to come back.
And here I am. I'm staying here...
Trying to start again and...
And sort things out.
Well...
So what do you do now?
Better not ask this question.
- No, tell me. - Well...
I am not settled yet.
But I'm trying my best to be independent.
Sometimes I work at a restaurant...
Help out at a store...
Those simple jobs.
The money I make is not a lot.
Because living standards here are not like there.
- Of course. - But...
Well, it's not the best option...
If you think about it.
- It's not a comfortable situation. - Yes, it's not.
It's not cool.
It's all drudgery and humiliation...
And back-stabbing...
You couldn't have forgotten that this is where I came from.
I was in that grind for years.
Don't be fooled by this elegant outfit I have on now.
It's not any different from being a waitress.
And also not any different from the waiter we just lashed out at in the coffee house.
I just tried to make it look more elegant.
I don't get it. Why are you...
Why are you upset because of what I said?
No, I am not upset at you of course.
I am upset for you.
I feel sorry for you.
- Sorry? - Yes.
You have everything by the way.
You have a degree that would give you money, respect, and appreciation.
Why did you leave all this behind?
To hop from one place to another and spite your father?
Spite my father? Is that what you understood from what I said?
- This is what you just said. - No, it's not!
This is not what I said!
I said that I had always felt I was imprisoned...
That I was locked up...
That I wasn't able to breathe and that this
was the first time I felt I am alive for real.
For real? Do you look like someone who's alive for real?
What's wrong with how I look?
Do I have to wear a uniform to be alive for real?
- Uniform? - Yes!
I'll go, alright?
Suit yourself!
Yes, Dina.
What is it?
When?
Something the matter?
My mom was transferred to the ICU.
I have to go there now.
Let me stop a cab for you.
- All well? - Yes, all well.
The doctor said this is an expected relapse.
But thankfully it was dealt with right away.
That's why she's been in the hospital for a while now.
She also messes up all the time.
She doesn't eat well at all.
Hopefully, she'll get well soon.
- Hopefully. - God willing.
When I saw her now I remembered a strange situation.
When I was in 8th grade I think...
I came to your house but I don't remember why.
Most probably I wanted to photocopy tutoring notes.
She seated me in the living area...
And she got me a bowl of pudding with walnuts and raisins.
I started eating and she went back to the kitchen.
When I looked I saw her standing by the fridge...
And she was crying.
She was crying hard.
But without a sound.
Most likely... no, not most likely...
That was definitely the last time I saw her.
Strangely this situation seemed to have been erased from my memory.
But when I saw her now, it all came back to me...
And I remembered all the details including how the pudding tasted.
As if I can still taste it now.
Looks like you're hungry.
Yes...
I am actually hungry.
Maybe that's why.
I am also hungry.
Let's go eat.
- Now? Can we? - Yes.
Let's go.
- Sure? - Yes.
Alright.
We'll go eat. Do you want to come with us?
Uncle is calling from Saudi Arabia.
Don't tell him I'm here.
- I'll bring you something to eat. - Alright.
Hi, how are you?
So, where's Mohamed?
Mohamed who?
Mohamed, your cousin...
And your fianc‚.
He's nice and kind and all this.
But I felt I couldn't let my life stop at that point...
And that this could be it. Do you understand what I mean?
I understand.
But last time we met, I remember that...
You told me he loved you.
Wasn't that enough?
No, obviously it wasn't enough.
He did love me, but I didn't love him.
I didn't really love him...
But I loved him.
No, I don't get it.
You're just being sarcastic.
- Of course I'm being sarcastic. - I knew it.
- What you said doesn't make sense. - Stop joking.
Hello.
Yes, dad.
Yes, we're okay.
How are you doing?
Yes, I'm having lunch then will head to the hospital.
No, thank you. We're good.
Alright.
He was asking if we need anything.
But...
As if he wanted me to say we don't.
What kind of a father...
Would know that the mother of his daughters is in the ICU...
And that no one is there to support them...
Then just ask if we need anything?
You know? I'm sure that had I told him that we need something...
He wouldn't have done it.
Eat your food.
That girl was so meek.
No, she wasn't meek at all.
Not meek at all!
- She was actually meek. - No she wasn't!
I laughed so hard!
I haven't laughed like this for a very long time.
I am...
I am sorry I yelled at you in the street.
I too am sorry for being that patronizing.
Plus why should I care if you become a doctor or a shoemaker?
We see the world from our own perspective.
When we see it from each other's perspective we're shocked.
What matters is that you know what you want to do.
There is a song I want you to listen to.
Of course.
The night is long and lonely.
Do you know it?
No, I don't.
But I like it.
The night is sad...
The night is long and lonely...
Except for silence.
The night is sad and needs...
Hi, Dina.
What? I can't hear you.
I'm at the hospital.
You're breaking up. I can't hear.
I'll move and call you.
Can you hear me?
Something the matter?
I guess Dina was telling me that my
uncle's wife and her daughters are coming...
To check in on mom because they probably knew I was out of town.
I couldn't hear her well.
Are they coming now?
I think so.
Alright, I'll...
I'll get going.
Why?
Because...
You have visitors so I want to...
To give you space. I just came so that...
You wouldn't be alone.
Let me call her to make sure. I couldn't hear her.
- No, I'll... - Just wait.
Why are you in a rush? You miss your filthy room?
Be patient and wait.
Hello.
Yes, Dina...
The night dances a slow waltz...
In a street without a heart...
A deserted street...
With tearing eyes...
And a lonely moon...
Waiting for the dawn of a new day.
Hello.
Yes, I'll be at the office in 10 minutes.
Alright... bye.
TIME CHANGES US BUT IT DOESN'T CHANGE THE WAY WE SEE EACH OTHER.
YOUSSEF, DECEMBER 19, 2017
I forwarded the email to you. We booked for them for 5 days...
Two double rooms and three triple rooms.
Alright? Have a look and get back to me.
Bye.
Thank you.
Do I have to book a flight to reach you?
I tried to reach you a while ago but...
Most probably you didn't see the message.
I wanted to see if we're meeting or you'll pass like last year.
Yes, Nora.
Why did you send me the email? Do you think I'll doubt you?
Obviously, Omar forgot to book the car.
I know. What will you do?
I don't know. What do you think?
I can try to offer them something...
But give me something to offer.
What do you think will satisfy them? I trust you.
What can satisfy them is a day at the Blue Hole reserve but it will be full board.
For all eight?
Of course all eight. What else?
Do you want us to feed two and dump the rest in the desert?
Okay, I'll do it for you.
No, not for me. For the clients...
So they don't give us a bad review.
So when will you honor us with a visit?
I'll see.
Let's see how things go.
Did Bakr tell you about our New Year's Eve program?
Yes, he told me.
Obviously what he told you did not convince you to come.
Yes, it did not convince me.
Let me think about. You know that...
It's very busy at work.
By the way, you can work better and faster if you come here.
I know. That's true.
Now, let me call the clients and arrange things with them then call you back.
- Alright? - Alright, I'll wait for you.
- Okay, bye. - Bye.
Hello.
How are you?
I'm doing very well.
Yes, all well.
By the way, I tried to contact you a while ago but...
You didn't respond so I thought you'll disappear like last year.
Yes, I'm around.
Of course I'd love to.
Where are you now?
Wow! You're at the other side of town.
I'm in New Cairo.
Why don't we meet somewhere in between?
How about Zamalek?
- Welcome back. - How are you?
All is well.
I follow you on social media and I see you're doing very well at work.
You really follow?
- Looks like work is going well. - It's going very well.
Thank God!
But to be honest, I don't own the whole company.
I have two partners.
Wait!
Many happy returns!
Thank you but...
- Today is not my birthday... - I know but...
It's like our birthday... December 19.
- You know? - I see
- So I got you a gift. - It's beautiful.
It smells nice.
And this is the color you like.
- It's the color I like. - Yes, I know that...
You love this color.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
So which trip are you coming from?
With that fur you must be coming from Paris.
And the sunglasses...
No, I came from home.
I quit my job since I got married.
Since what?
Don't tell me you didn't know.
I didn't.
I didn't know. How would I?
We don't talk.
Sorry, I wasn't aware you...
Didn't know.
Why sorry? It's not your fault.
It's my fault most likely.
I've been too isolated.
I should've reached out.
But anyway...
Congratulations!
Congrats, Alia!
So...
When did this happen?
November 30 last year.
Last year?
When I sent you a message last year and you didn't respond...
I thought you were mad at me, but most probably...
At that time, you were...
You were in the honeymoon.
That's right.
Now, we found a better occasion for the flowers.
How's your father? What does he think of your new job?
Are you on speaking terms?
Well, we are on speaking terms.
But...
Everything has changed since...
My mom, may she rest in peace, passed away.
May she rest in peace.
He became another person.
He totally changed. He became...
He became much calmer...
He now seems subdued and...
And his voice... remember his loud voice? It's now very low.
She always saw him as the greatest person in the world.
For her, he was right about everything...
And everyone else was wrong.
And...
I finally understood that all his tyranny and over-confidence were because of her.
As if he saw himself through her eyes.
So when she died, he was stripped of all this.
So what's his name?
Whose name?
Your husband... what's his name?
His name is Ziad.
Here you go.
This is yours.
Thank you.
Thanks a lot.
So was it the typical story?
What do you mean?
I mean...
He was a businessman flying business class...
And you were the flight attendant...
The beautiful flight attendant who served him a drink...
You met a few times and were all lovey-dovey then...
You got married.
Yes.
- Are you serious? - Yes.
As if you were with us.
Please tell me he's not a 60-year-old man...
Who he married you behind his wife's and children's backs...
No, that's not true.
He's 32 and never married before.
What's wrong with your hand? I noticed something is wrong.
I fell down the stairs and my hand was in a cast for two months.
And now I'm doing physiotherapy for...
Tendons and muscles and...
- I am sorry. - It's good now.
I think you should pick up in case this is work.
Yes, sorry, obviously something is the matter. Just a second...
Hello.
Yes, Nora?
Yes...
I told you I did that already, Nora.
Then let me... Alright...
No, not...
Just listen... Check junk email.
You'll definitely find it there.
Enough talk about traveling.
I swear I...
I'll call you tonight and we figure it out.
Alright...
Alright, Nora... I'm in a meeting now.
I'm in a meeting. I'll call you back when I finish.
I'll call you back.
Alright... bye.
Sorry, Alia.
What? What's so funny?
So, that Nora is trying to entrap you, right?
Entrap me? She does entrap me, but in work.
That's it.
- Seriously? - Yes.
So, you're not changing the subject?
If a 27-year-old man sees a woman all over him like this...
But still doesn't get attracted to her...
There must be a reason. I am curious to know.
Why didn't you think that the reason is simply that I didn't love her?
Or that doesn't count?
And love is no longer important for you?
I don't understand what you mean.
What I mean is in the question I asked.
How about we go somewhere to eat?
- Where's the restaurant? - Over there.
It's close if you want us to walk.
I can't walk because I'm wearing heels.
Of course it's inappropriate to ask you to ride behind me.
- This is yours? - Yes.
It's fast and efficient.
It's very nice.
Better take my car.
I won't be able to ride the motorbike.
I understand. Alright.
- Go ahead. - Let's go.
Is this your car?
Yes.
It's a nice car.
It's worth quitting your job for it.
I could've settled for much less actually.
- Really? - Really.
This is strange. I...
I never thought you could accept something you don't believe in.
That's normal. We grow up and change.
Don't you think so?
I don't know.
That's normal.
So, you quit dentistry for good?
So far, yes.
I am trying to be...
Honest with myself and do what I really love.
You're right of course.
So tell me... or maybe you told me and I didn't pay attention...
Yes?
What does your husband Ziad do?
You're the one who said it.
He's a businessman.
Yes, I did say this.
What type of business?
Just regular business...
It's not...
Drugs or arms... just a regular business.
Does he work inside or outside Egypt?
He comes and goes.
You must get bored now that you don't work, right?
No, I got used to this.
- Really? - Yes.
Really.
And is he now in Egypt or traveling?
What the matter?
You've been talking about nothing but Ziad for a whole hour!
No, not a whole hour. I just asked a couple of questions.
- Really? A couple of questions? - Yes, a couple of questions.
Why are you snapping at me?
That's normal, Alia. Maybe I still can't process it or don't understand!
- What don't you understand? - I don't understand who you are, Alia!
Time can change us like you said but it doesn't change the way we see each other.
- I'm sorry, Alia. - It's fine.
No, I'm sorry. I don't have the right to meddle in what doesn't concern me.
Anyway, I hope you're happy...
In whichever way.
If you were really happy you wouldn't snap at me like this.
I didn't fall down the stairs.
That was Ziad.
And it wasn't the first time he hit me.
He hit me many times.
What have the years...
Done to us?
What have they done?
What have the years...
Done to us?
What have they done?
The first time he hit me...
I was scared and I didn't understand.
I left the house.
And I considered it over.
But he...
Was remorseful and apologetic in a way I never thought existed.
He cried for two weeks.
He asked many people to mediate.
He got me a lot of gifts.
Trying to make it up for me.
I forgave him and went back.
The second time it happened...
He was even more remorseful and apologetic.
The gifts were more expensive
So I forgave him again and went back.
The third time...
I didn't leave the house.
Because I knew I'd forgive come and go back.
- Alia, are you doing this for money? - Don't ever say that!
You out of all people can't say that.
I can't deny that what he does with my family makes a difference.
But that's not why I am enduring this and staying with him.
Why then?
Because he loves me.
He can't imagine his life without me.
Without me in particular... me out of all women.
No, Alia.
This is not love. This is...
This is so many other things but not love.
But if you're saying this to feel better...
And justify it, then fine.
It's fine.
But, Alia, you...
You don't love him.
Even if...
My mom loved my dad...
Even though no one hurt her like he did.
He humiliated and belittled her.
Despite love, the years they spent together...
And the children they had...
He still left her.
So if I now compare between me and her I'll find that I am...
In a much better place.
Alia...
You're married to a sick person.
And you're trying to convince yourself that it might get better.
But that won't happen.
I know.
If you know, then why are you doing this?
I'm afraid to lose the man who loved me like no other.
And you're not afraid...
You're not afraid to live like that for the rest of your life?
I am afraid.
Do you know how many times...
I thought of calling you to tell you?
But then I'd think, "What do I tell him?"
"And what would he do?"
Why now?
Why are you telling me now?
Because maybe something could change.
Can you please move away from the car?
I am telling you to please move away from the car.
What's wrong, dude? Can't you hear her?
Cool it down, dude!
No! Youssef!
No! No!
What the hell are you doing?
Stop it!
Enough!
Youssef!
Stop this nonsense!
Stop it, guys!
Youssef!
Enough!
Youssef!
I said stop it!
Stop this nonsense!
Enough! Enough!
WE Don't Just Know EACH OTHER. ALIA, FEBRUARY 8, 2020
- I'm sorry for your loss. - Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you for your condolences.
Mom wants to talk to you.
- Now? - Yes.
- I'll be back. - Okay.
Let's go.
Come here.
What's going on, Noha?
Someone wants to see you.
Alright, you go inside.
Thank you.
I am sorry for your loss.
Thank you, Alia.
Are you alright?
I'm good.
I know it's not the right time but...
If you can, can we sit and talk after you're done?
Thank you. Please come in.
Alright.
Do you remember the store we tried to buy a phone from?
There is a coffee house next to it now.
I'll wait for you there.
Youssef, if you don't want to see me again just tell me and...
- And I won't... - No...
Give me some time to finish.
Then I'll meet you.
Hang in there.
Thank you.
How did it happen?
Was it sudden?
No...
It wasn't sudden.
We all expected it to happen.
But you know one keeps thinking it wouldn't happen that soon.
Then death takes you by surprise.
But...
But thankfully he must be...
He must be in a better place now.
In the past few years...
Things got reversed.
I guess I was...
I was doing to him the same thing he had done to me.
When...
When he smoked a cigarette or...
Or when he didn't pick up when I called.
Or when he forgot to take his medication.
But I let bygones be bygones.
What mattered to me the most was...
Taking care of him and...
Make him feel better.
To support him...
And make him strong.
I feel I did my best.
But I still feel that...
I could've done more.
I don't know if I forgive him.
I don't know.
But what I know is that I love him.
But even this...
I couldn't tell him.
That's it.
That's all.
I couldn't cry when my dad died.
I'm Sorry. I...
I didn't know.
When did this happen?
Last year.
I'm sorry for your loss, Alia.
Thank you.
I try to cry.
I try hard to cry but it doesn't work.
So I pray for him...
When I remember him.
May he rest in peace.
What about you?
How are you doing?
All is well with you?
Depends...
Depends on what?
Depends why you're asking.
Are you asking out of duty?
Or are you asking because you really care to know how I am doing?
You know that I'll always care to know how you're doing.
Then why did you block me everywhere two years ago?
Even on your phone.
There's no point talking about this now.
Seriously?
So each of us should go back home and that will be it?
And wait for the next time one us knows about a death in the other's family?
Well, noise really bothers me.
Let's go for a walk.
What if one of those hits someone in the head?
What did you want me to do, Alia?
Seriously, what...
What did you expect me to do?
When all of a sudden I find out you're with someone else.
And...
With a sick man...
A piece of crap...
Who takes advantage of you needing him...
And humiliates and hurts you.
Hurts you for real... gets you hospitalized
And you were okay with all this.
You accepted that.
You justified it and...
And you felt it was good having that man in your life.
What was I supposed to do?
I felt helpless.
I felt there was nothing I could do except...
Except to stay away.
Stay away so I don't have to face my helplessness every single day.
- You chose to run away, Youssef. - No, I didn't.
No, Alia! I did not choose to run away.
You know that very well.
And let me ask you something.
Run away from what?
What did I run away from?
What is going on between us anyway?
Why would I run away? What was I committed to anyway?
Being there for example.
Being there?
Being there how?
By meeting every one or two years to...
Chat and open up so each of us is shocked at what happened in the other's life?
To feel sorry for each other?
Is this what "being there" means?
And why do all this?
Because we knew each other as children?
Impressive how you reduced it all to this!
But we didn't just know each other, Youssef.
We went to classes together every single day.
We made the same trip together and knew every step of the way by heart.
I remember one day when we...
Decided to try walking with our eyes closed and we didn't fall.
I remember the tree around the corner of my street...
I'd turn around when I reached it and you'd still be looking at me.
Because you wanted to make sure I entered the building.
Do you remember Om Hatem's newspaper stand?
We used to meet there when we wanted to skip school or...
Wanted to go to the movies.
And the butterflies I had when I heard the phone ring at 11:00.
Because I was sure it was you.
So we didn't just know each other, Youssef.
I can't see it that way.
But none of this exists now.
They all vanished.
They no longer exist.
Those streets we knew by heart are gone.
They're not the same anymore.
That tree around the corner...
Was chopped off, Alia.
They chopped it off.
Om Hatem is dead and her son Hatem left the country.
People no longer read newspapers.
Your mom passed away...
No one uses landlines now including us.
We're different people now, Alia.
If Youssef and Alia from school see us now they won't recognize us.
Then how come we recognized each other when we met by coincidence 7 years ago?
And how come my heart was jumping with joy then?
At that moment I wished I could hug you and we could stay together for good.
But I was ashamed.
Yes, I was ashamed.
I was ashamed because...
Because you became a doctor and I was a waitress.
But I did all I could.
I did all I could to make sure you'd find me in a better place when we meet again.
But the following time we met, you were lost.
That's why I snapped.
But I still wanted to be with you.
Then you suddenly ran away.
But I understood and I thought maybe...
I was burdening you with more than you could handle.
When I told what Ziad did to me...
I wanted you to tell me to get a divorce.
Or ask me to file a lawsuit against him.
I would've done that but you said nothing.
When I managed to get a divorce and Ziad was out of my life...
I was dying to talk to you...
And tell you that I want to be with you for the rest of my life.
But I didn't find you.
I couldn't reach you.
Hello.
Yes, I'm here.
I am with a friend.
I'll be back soon.
Alright... bye.
Was that Noha?
That was my wife.
See where we've become...
See where we've become and where life took us.
See where life took us and where it left us.
We're going back to the same path we took in the past.
And we're lost in the same place.
We're going back to the same path we took in the past.
And we're lost in the same place.
Our wounds are not heeling and we can't forget the past.
Once again, you and I are going back...
To pain and suffering... once again.
IT'S NOT MEANT TO BE. DESTINY IS NOT ALLOWING IT.
THE UNIVERSE IS AGAINST IT. YOUSSEF, DECEMBER 19, 2024
Mr. Sherif, please go to room number 1.
Good morning, Dr. Youssef.
Hello, Mr. Sherif
- How are you? - I'm good.
- How are you now? - All well.
- Better now? - Yes.
- Let's start. - Alright.
Hi, Dina.
Yes, I'm at work.
I'm with clients. Will finish and call you.
Alright...
Bye now.
So what do you think? Do you like the entrance?
It's perfect! It's what I want!
- This is what you want? - Yes.
Then that's it. See how decisive she is.
- Yes, she means business. - She does.
Deal!
Come here!
I miss you so much!
- I miss you! - Okay.
Okay? I tell you I miss you and you respond with "okay"?
What am I supposed to say?
No, don't say anything. Don't sweat it!
I have a surprise for you.
Tomorrow we're going to the theme park.
Yes, I booked already.
Do we have a deal?
So do you want to get ice cream or go home straight away?
No, we're going to Alia's.
- Go to who? - Alia.
Alia? Who's Alia?
Over there. This is Alia.
He's supposed to go to Alia's house for her birthday.
But I wasn't informed of this.
Mrs. Sara told me. I guess she forgot to tell you.
Zizo, let's go.
No, go where? Just wait.
If he goes with her, where can I pick him up?
We sent the location to Mrs. Sara.
- Hello, Dr. Youssef. - Hello.
- How are you? - All well.
I sent the location to Mrs. Sara. It's in the neighborhood so not far.
Well...
You really want to go?
Yes, because Alia is getting a magic show.
Magic show? In this case, he has to go of course.
We'll finish around 9:00.
I can take Zein home if you want.
No...
I'll pick him up at 9:00.
Alright, happy birthday, Alia.
Thank you!
Take care of yourself.
If you need anything call me.
Hello, Sara... you should've told me.
Yes they told me but...
I shouldn't have left work early then. This is not fair.
What would I do in the neighborhood till 9:00?
I can't go all the way to New Cairo and come back.
Well...
Alright, Sara.
That's fine... no problem.
Just send me the location.
Alright...
Okay...
Goodbye.
Emad!
- Hello, mister! - Hello!
Find me a parking spot because I'll be here for a while.
- Consider it done. - Here you go.
Thank you.
Your tests are excellent.
Thank God!
As of the 28th, I want you to...
Take Fostimon for a week...
And come on January 8...
To do the operation. Here you go.
Do side effects appear in the tests, doctor?
No, side effects don't show in test results.
But I don't want you to worry.
This kind of procedure has very few serious side effects.
Listen, Mrs. Alia...
To be honest...
You're at the ideal age for freezing eggs.
You need to take into consideration that you had an abortion twice before.
Which means it's worth it.
Am I right?
Are you leaving, ma'am?
- Yes, I am. - Go ahead.
Go ahead.
Hello.
You don't usually answer unsaved numbers from the first time.
Yes.
I don't usually do that.
Do you mean to say I'm lucky?
How are you, Alia?
I'm very well.
How are you?
I'm alright.
Not bad.
How's your work going?
So, you know.
Of course you know.
You know I always manage to know your updates.
Yes, when...
When Covid started, my business stopped and...
I have a lot of financial responsibilities...
You don't need to justify.
You made a decision to do a career shift and it worked well.
Then you made a decision to go back to being a dentist.
You don't owe anyone anything.
By the way...
I've had your new number for a while.
But I thought...
Better wait for a special day to have a reason to call you.
Why is it a special day?
Today is not my birthday.
Youssef, for years I've been telling you that you have a terrible sense of humor.
You're right about that.
Today, something strange happened.
I was picking up Zein from school...
And I discovered he has a classmate called Alia.
Not only that...
Today is her birthday.
What are the odds?
Speaking of the many coincidences that happen on December 19...
My license plate is 1912...
Really?
What are the letters?
AY?
No, it's OF.
OF?
It could stand for "old friend."
Actually yes!
Not very old, though. We're still talking.
Youssef, why didn't you call me after you got divorced?
Youssef?
What do you want, Alia?
What do you want?
I want what's between us to stay.
And what exactly is between us?
I never had a name for it.
You mean the things we feel that we could never confess.
Since we now know the things we feel...
Why don't we stay together for good?
Because the things we feel should've come out when the time was right...
But they didn't.
Do you seriously believe what you're saying?
No, Alia. I don't believe what I'm saying. I am actually living it.
I'm living it and...
And I've been happy and content for the past four years.
I thought you did the same.
Alia, this is what logic dictates.
We're older now. It's over.
We can no longer act like adolescents.
In 18 years...
We saw each other only four days.
Youssef...
Alia, I am telling you they were only four days in 18 years...
And now you're telling me...
Let's stay together for good. How is this possible?
How come?
Destiny is not allowing it...
The universe is against it. It's not meant to be.
That's it then.
That's it.
Even...
Even that December 19 thing is over, Alia.
We're...
We're too old for this now, Alia.
Tell you what? Let's leave it to chance.
Maybe if we meet one day...
We can be friends.
Can we become friends after we knew we're in love with each other?
I don't know.
I really don't know.
I don't know what to say.
Don't say anything, Youssef!
And I'm sorry I called you.
- Alia, I am... - Goodbye.
Alia?
All alone...
A tear trickled from my eye...
Memories from the past suddenly came back to me.
They came knocking on my door.
They came knocking on my door once again...
LOVE RULES
Bringing back stories I ended...
Reminding me of people I can't reach...
Making my heart ache.
Why are you back?
What do my sad memories want?
A long overdue visit and bygone feelings...
For which I paid a dear price.
How long will I keep suffering?
Tell me why you're back.
It's too late to come back.
This is a moment I didn't prepare for and a memory I don't want to revisit.
A memory I had erased...
And stopped talking about.
On the way back...
I am all alone...
Holding back my tears to get through the day...
Smiling at life.
But it's a cautious smile.
I don't have many dreams. I just dream of peace of mind...
Of less thinking and less sleepless night...
Of no longer waiting and hoping...
Why are you back?
What do my sad memories want?
A long overdue visit and bygone feelings...
For which I paid a dear price.
How long will I keep suffering?
Tell me why you're back.
It's too late to come back.
This a moment I didn't prepare for and a memory I don't want to revisit.
A memory I had erased...
And stopped talking about.