Xala

Oumi N’Doye put on her best clothes to go to the movies. She was in a good mood. The theater that she and El Hadji went to was usually patronized by Europeans. Oumi N’Doye spoke only to the African patrons, however. This movie date was proof to her that El Hadji was still interested in her, and she reveled in his attention.

El Hadji watched the film with disinterest. His mind wandered. After the movie, Oumi N’Doye wanted to go dancing at a nightclub. They went to the nightclub they patronized at the beginning of their marriage. El Hadji watched other couples dance to African American soul music. Oumi N’Doye danced for the attention of other men.

When they returned to Oumi N’Doye’s village, it was late. El Hadji had a bath and went to bed. He was asleep when Oumi N’Doye ran her hand along his body. When he failed to respond, she asked what the matter was with him, holding his flaccid penis. She reminded him that he had been in similar form the day before and warned him that she could find what she needed elsewhere.

The next day, the family gathered for breakfast.