‘Safiya!’ Elle’s mum says when she opens the door, obviously startled to see me. I wonder if Elle told her we don’t sit together at school any more. ‘I . . . Elle’s around somewhere. Let me get her.’

‘Hey,’ Elle says, equally surprised, when she sees me.

I want to ask for the book and leave as soon as I can, but I don’t think that’s the point of the challenge. When I found the cats I ended up talking to Dad about Mum; when I found the flyer for the play I started emailing Rawan; and after I spoke to Aunt Zaina she agreed to visit. So, I know today I have to do this properly.

‘Can I come in?’ I ask.

When we get to Elle’s room it’s like travelling back in time. She has pink and white striped wallpaper and pink glittery curtains to match. Her room’s been like this since she was seven.

‘Mum’s going to redecorate,’ Elle says, as if she’s embarrassed, when she sees me looking around. I realize I haven’t been here in a while.

‘Really?’ I frown. ‘I like it how it is.’

Elle shrugs and flops on to her bed. ‘Want a drink?’ she asks like nothing’s changed.

I shake my head. Silent Saff is back again, and I’m not quite sure how to start the conversation. I don’t feel awkward, though, not this time. I just wait for Elle to speak because I think she owes me that.

Eventually she does.

‘How’s your mum?’ she asks, looking concerned. ‘Is she still in a coma?’

I can feel my blood boil as the words leave her mouth. Even though she looks like she cares, she asked about Mum in the same way you’d ask someone if they watched a popular programme on TV, or finished their homework on time.

‘Yes, she is,’ I snap. ‘What kind of question is that?’

‘Sorry,’ Elle answers, eyes wide. She’s not used to me being mad at her.

‘She’s going to be fine,’ I add, though I’m not sure who I’m trying to convince.

There might’ve been a time when I would’ve told Elle about Aminah and Rawan and the challenges I’ve had to face. For some reason, though, I don’t, even though she’s acting like things are normal.

Maybe because I’m not sure she would believe me. Maybe because I’m not sure she’s special enough to share this with any more. Seeing Rawan and Mum together makes it clear how much things have changed between Elle and me.

Elle says nothing in response.

‘Anyway,’ I carry on, taking charge now, ‘do you remember that book of fairy tales I gave you?’ I describe it for her when she looks confused.

I watch Elle’s brain tick, my heart pounding. She doesn’t have it, I knew it!