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Fri 25 Feb
Tom, his Dad (who's visiting for a week), and Cleo go off to see the Sufi dancing. Margie and I leave the Sufis for another day. It's nice to have the house: peaceful and to ourselves for a while.Sun 27 Feb Once again Margie and I find ourselves at home alone. We compare notes on Cleo's claim that she and Ms Katy had been trying to get us together for a month. I (stupidly) repeat what I had said to Cleo, that I couldn't think why Katy would be the slightest bit interested in my "love life" unless it was to keep me from sniffing at her door [Katy's]. Margie was very unhappy with this choice of words; the idea that I might only be interested in her as a second choice. Whoops! We go and sit outside, on plastic chairs, watch the world go by, sip fruit juice trying to mend the upset. I think we succeed. Later, Katy comes around as she and I are planning to go to a party. Spending time with Katy is always a pleasure, but having just persuaded Margie that I have no romantic interest I feel a little awkward and vulnerable. Katy and I chat. Margie makes some popcorn and then comes and joins us, sitting close and at one point putting her hand on my thigh. I don't think Katy notices or cares but I sense Margie is trying (consciously or otherwise) to give a strong message. It is all rather flattering, confusing and ultimately funny… though maybe it's one of those "you had to be there" situations. Rather than party, Katy and I decide to go to Omdurman Souq for some food instead. I have not been there to eat in the evening before and as Katy used to live here I hoped to broaden my repertoire. As we are leaving we bump into Cleo - who needs out - so the three of us end up having some local vegetarian food followed with rice pudding - all rather pleasant and relaxing.
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