Chapter 19, Yazman Summary

When Shabanu wakes the next morning, rain is in the air. At first, she thinks they will have rain for the wedding. Then she remembers there will be no wedding. The rest of the family seems to be waiting, but Shabanu doesn't know what they're waiting for. When she asks, Auntie replies angrily that they are waiting to hear the price "for all this foolishness you've caused." Shabanu generously ignores Auntie's mean remarks, and asks Mama instead. Nazir's brother is a politician and he doesn't want his brother's hatred to mar his political success, so he is willing to protect Shabanu's family and Hamir's family, but Shabanu worries there is more to pay; that perhaps Nazir will somehow insist on having Phulan. She cannot bear the thought of that. When Phulan is up and about, Mama asks her how she feels...