Code of Honor

A crash wakes Kamran at 3:23 am. Kamran wonders if he’s imagined something or had a nightmare, until his mother calls out, “Kamran? Was that you? Are you alright?” (1). Kamran hears sounds again, and thinks back to the demons in his nightmares. Suddenly, dark figures rush into Kamran's bedroom; he calls out for his parents, but the dark figures have grabbed his arms and legs. He reads on their chests “POLICE/HOMELAND SECURITY” (2). Kamran shouts that there has been a mistake and his brother Darius is innocent. He adds that he is an American citizen, but his wrists are zip-tied and a bag is put over his head. Kamran reflects that only days ago, he had been more worried about being in love with his girlfriend, Julia Gary, and getting into college; now, he’s a prisoner of the United States government. 

The chapter opens with the announcement of the homecoming king and queen—the winners are Kamran and Julia. Kamran feels amazing and makes eyes at his best friend, Adam Collier. Kamran and Julia dance; Kamran says something sweet to her, and she smiles at him. Kamran loves Julia, though he hasn't told her this yet.