My mother started buying me things for my dowry when I was in middle school.
She got so many towels, sheets, underwear, blankets,
Pots and cups.
“Why are you buying all these things, mama?”
“It’s for when you get married.”
“I’m still in middle school, mama.”
She would even buy some of the things from Saudi Arabia,
And when I’d ask why she’d say,
“Those things are more expensive in Egypt.
Trust me.”
“Can I use one of the towels?”
“No.”