Soraya's Past and Her Relationship with Her Father

Explores Soraya's rebellious past in Virginia, her strained relationship with General Taheri, and her eventual marriage to Amir.

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The Scandal in Virginia

The Scandal in Virginia The Runaway When Soraya was eighteen, she ran away with an Afghan man who was involved with drugs. They lived together for almost a month. The Afghan community in Virginia was scandalized. Her father, General Taheri, tracked her down and brought her home at gunpoint. He told the man he had two bullets: one for him, one for himself if Soraya didn't come home. The Aftermath When Soraya returned, her mother had suffered a stroke from the stress. The right side of her face was paralyzed. Soraya felt immense guilt. Her father made her cut off her hair as punishment. She stayed home for weeks, and when she finally went out, she heard whispers everywhere. The family moved to California to escape the gossip. The Burden of Reputation Soraya's past makes it difficult for her to find a suitor. Afghan families are concerned about her reputation. She is intelligent and beautiful, but no khastegar comes to ask for her hand. Her mother worries constantly. When Amir shows interest, Soraya is honest with him about her past. She tells him everything before they become engaged, giving him the chance to walk away.

The Engagement and Marriage

The Engagement and Marriage The Khastegari Baba, despite his illness, goes to General Taheri's house to ask for Soraya's hand. The general accepts. Soraya calls Amir and tells him about her past. He says it doesn't matter. They have a quick engagement because Baba is dying. The wedding is a lavish Afghan affair, with hundreds of guests, traditional music, and the Ayena Masshaf ceremony. Married Life Soraya moves in with Amir and Baba. She cares for Baba in his final months with tenderness and dedication. After Baba's death, she and Amir move into their own apartment. She supports Amir's writing career and pursues her own dream of becoming a teacher. Their marriage is built on honesty and mutual respect. The Strain of Infertility Soraya and Amir try to have children but fail. They undergo fertility treatments, including IVF, but nothing works. Soraya feels the pressure from her mother and the Afghan community. She considers adoption, but her father is opposed. The infertility creates a quiet sadness in their marriage, but they remain committed to each other. When Amir brings Sohrab home, Soraya embraces him as her own.

early 1980s

summer 1985