In this poignant classic by Mohamed Abdel Halim Abdullah, a young man named Hamed returns to his rural village after his studies in the city. He finds himself entangled in a forbidden love with his cousin, Samira, whose heart is torn between him and her pre-arranged betrothal. The novel masterfully explores themes of sacrifice, societal pressures, and the tragic consequences of unfulfilled passion, painting a vivid picture of life and love in mid-20th century rural Egypt. It is a story of what could have been, a love that remains tragically unfinished.