Page 11 of Death and Desire

“I would like to see them try.”

With a laugh, Dina shook her head. “I like your fire.”

A waiter appeared, bearing two delicate glasses with pale green liquid. They selected their drinks and raised them.

“To new friendships and new adventures,” Violet toasted.

Dina tipped her glass to Violet’s.

They drank, and Violet savored the rich liquor as it coated her tongue. “Delicious.”

“You must join me for tea tomorrow. We can discuss our plans for your stay.” Dina set her glass down.

“I don’t wish to impose...” Violet cradled her own drink in her hand.

“Nonsense. I relish the opportunity to show you around.”

“Very well. I shall be happy to join you for tea.”

“And don’t forget the welcome gala tomorrow evening.”

“Gala?” Violet gaped at her. “Where?”

“Here at the hotel.” Dina waved a hand. “They host one every week for the guests.”

“How wonderful. I love dancing.”

“Then you will love Cairo.”

“I can’t wait to hear all about it. Tell me, what’s it like? Living here?” Violet leaned forward, hungry for information.

Dina told her about her life in Egypt, her family who had lived here for centuries, and many fascinating details of her culture.

Violet absorbed every word with unabashed glee. Vivid storytelling drew her deeper into her friend’s tale. They were more alike than she’d realized. Whatever reservations Violet had about Dina vanished with the ease of their newfound friendship.

Later, her mind still raced with all that awaited her. Even though her body protested the idea of continuing, Violet enjoyed dinner with her father, David, and Isaac.

When she returned to her room late, she collapsed onto her bed, exhausted.

A dream of Egypt came again, but this time it was different. Tonight, she pictured herself in Cairo, wandering through the narrow streets. At the end of one street, she found an arched doorway leading to a garden overlooking the Nile. Moonlight shone overhead, reflected in the water.

Shadows shifted, materializing out of darkness, taking on shape. A familiar form. Tall, broad, strong...most certainly a man.

Not merely a man.

You have come at last.

His voice, deep and mesmerizing, wove through her, ensnaring her, holding her fast. Power radiated from his words, and her heart beat faster. Warmth fizzed through her, like champagne bubbles in a fluted glass. Although his face was hidden and she’d never actually seen it, sheknewthis man as well as her own reflection.

Welcome to my home, little thief.

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