PART II

Chapter 14 Madam Raby’s Pizza

Hotel Tata in Labé is a cosy inn settled in a green, flower-filled enclave. We’re greeted by Madame Raby herself, the gardens quiet, fragrant steam from the kitchen carrying a blend of Guinean stews and, improbably, some of the best pizza I’ll find west of Naples.

Our bungalow is simple but spotless. I let the door swing shut with a sigh, peel off my dusty clothes, and step into the tiled shower. The water isn’t hot, but it’s mercifully steady, washing the road from my skin.

A soft knock at the bathroom door. Karim’s voice filters through, low and warm.

“Elena, may I come in? Or do you want the rain all to yourself?”

“If you promise not to complain about the water pressure, you may.”

The full chapter — what happens in the steam, Madame Raby’s improbable pizza, and the rare feeling of being just for one night a little bit at home — is available unabridged on Ream.

© 2026 CYcrds | I.Ph. de Lange