Page 24 of Death and Desire

“Nothing could be further from the truth.” His lip twitched, and he offered his arm. “Come, the hour grows late. I do not wish for your father to worry.”

She took his arm, but the mention of her father put her in a foul mood. After such a lovely day, she didn’t wish to fight with him. Her decision to pursue her own passions trumped her father’s overprotective nature. She didn’t require a husband, regardless of his wishes. Although he’d been presumptuous to hire Khalid to accompany her, the man’s companionship wasn’t tiresome. In fact, the longer she spent in his company, the more she desired to learn more about him. And yet, their return to the hotel progressed in silence.

Inside the lobby, she found her brother and David lounging near the open windows with Dina, drinks in hand. They waved in invitation, but Khalid’s hold on her arm stopped her.

“Have a care, Violet. Even beneath this roof, you are not as safe as you believe.”

“Why do you speak in riddles?” Violet chuckled, slowly drawing away from his touch and missing it immediately.

“I speak only the truth.”

Violet brushed his words aside. “Would you care to join us for a drink?”

“I must go.” He lifted her hand and turned it, pressing his lips to the sensitive skin inside her wrist. “May you have pleasant dreams, little flower.”

With those parting words, he left her standing speechless in the lobby of the Continental. No quantity of liquor in Cairo could wipe away the lingering sensation of his kiss just beneath the jeweled bracelet.

Chapter Six

Violet stepped ontothe dock, basking in the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze drifting from the water. The boat was docked and waiting. Soft white clouds painted the blue sky overhead. What a perfect day to begin their cruise on the Nile River.

She paused at the base of the gangplank when she heard commotion behind her.

“I told you to leave that infernal thing at the hotel,” David grumbled to Isaac as they approached.

“I can’t justleave it,” her brother insisted, tucking the item into his jacket pocket.

“What are you two arguing over now?” Violet rested her hand on the railing and glared at the pair.

“Nothing important, sister dear.” Isaac’s sickeningly sweet smile nauseated her, and it had nothing to do with the sway beneath her feet. “Where’s your protector?”

“His name is Khalid, and if you remember correctly,Iam not the one who requested his company.” Violet’s eyes narrowed. “If you’d listened to Father and remained by my side, I wouldn’t need a loyal hound.”

“What an interesting description.”

Embarrassment bit into her, warming her cheeks as she turned. Khalid stood several paces away, leaning on an oversized crate. To his credit, he did not seem offended by the remark, but it was clear there was little amusement.

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