Darius the Great Is Not Okay

Instead of celebrating Sizdeh Bedar, most of Darius’s family joins Mamou in taking the food she prepared for the picnic over to Sohrab’s house. Meanwhile, Darius and his father walk around Yazd together, exploring the Jameh Mosque. As Darius watches his father take in the beauty of the building, he feels he understands him better than he ever has before.

That night, Mamou makes Darius’s favorite meal, and she and Babou surprise him with two birthday presents: an antique teapot and a pair of cleats. Babou reassures Darius that he’s been a good friend, and that Sohrab is just “hurting right now” (291). Darius’s mother then helps him pack, assuring him that she understands his mixed feelings about returning to the US.

Later that evening, while Darius is sitting and reading, Mamou tells him that Sohrab has come to see him. Darius goes outside, and Sohrab awkwardly thanks him for the cleats. Darius once again says he’s sorry about Sohrab’s father, but doesn’t know how to get past the “walls” he senses between him and Sohrab (294). Sohrab in turn apologizes for lashing out at Darius, and invites him out for a walk.