Page 5 of The Moon's Daughter

“I must admit, I’m shocked you roam the city without an escort of guards,” Nizam remarked, shielding his eyes from the bright sun as their horses trotted along, the sounds of the festival fading behind them.

Layna smiled conspiratorially. “Soraya and I used to sneak out of the palace as teenagers. Baba was always furious when we managed to elude our guards. But once we began sword fighting lessons, I think he worried less. He’s tripled the city patrol because of us, though he’ll never admit it. Officially, it was for ‘public safety,’” she explained with a grin.

“And your citizens? Please don’t take this the wrong way, but they don’t seem…in awe of you,” Nizam noted, his brows furrowed. “When I leave my palace, my guards clear a path and keep the people at bay. It would be chaos otherwise.”

Layna thought for a moment. “I never realized it was odd. Perhaps because the citizens see me so often? I host a monthly assembly open to the public, so I interact with many of them regularly.”

“That’s fascinating.” Nizam gently nudged his horse closer to hers, allowing their legs to brush lightly as their mounts trotted side by side.

Layna’s cheeks flushed. Each stride sent a ripple of awareness through her, the light pressure pleasant where Nizam’s leg brushed against hers.

“I was surprised to see Lord Ebrahim at breakfast,” Nizam commented. “It’s rare for council members to dine with the royal family in such informal settings.”

“Lord Ebrahimispart of our family,” Layna replied with a soft smile. “He’s been advising Baba since before I was born. In many ways, he’s like a second father to me.”

“Then, you are truly blessed,” Nizam said. “And with Burhani, you have another sister.”

Layna’s smile faded slightly. “Burhani came to live at the palace three years ago. Lord Ebrahim brought her here after her mother’s death. I’m not certain he even knew about her before that.”

Nizam’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh. That must have been quite an adjustment.” Noting Layna’s pensive silence, he did not press further.

As the sun dipped lower, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Layna and Nizam journeyed back to the palace.

Their horses slowed to a halt at the stables, an amiable silence wrapped around them. Nizam helped Layna dismount, and the prince and princess returned to the palace together.

As Layna retired to her chambers that evening, the day’s excitement lingered in her mind. A gentle knock broke her contemplation. Soraya rushed in, and Layna’s smile broadened as her sister sat beside her on the bed. Layna grasped her hand in gratitude. “Thank you. I had the most incredible day with Nizam.”

Soraya flashed a cheeky grin and squeezed Layna’s hand. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she teased, her brown eyes twinkling with mischief. “I trulydidhave an emergency in the greenhouse. Tell me more about him.”

“Honestly, I feel such a strong connection to him already. He’s charming, polite, smart, and so handsome! I could drown in his beautiful green eyes all day,” Layna confided with a dreamy smile. “And he seems to care about me—justme, not the future queen.”

Soraya listened intently, a knowing smile playing on her lips. “It sounds like he sees the real you,” she remarked softly.

The younger princess was quiet for a moment, her expression contemplative. Layna recognized that look. “What’s on your mind, Soraya?” she prodded gently, tilting her head to catch her sister’s gaze.

Soraya hesitated. “I don’t want to put a damper on your excitement, Layna. I truly am so happy for you,” she began, choosing her words carefully.

“But?” Layna prompted.

“But…perhaps take some more time before deciding. It’s only been two days, after all. And Baysaht—their culture seems quite restrictive of women.” Soraya paused, weighing her next words. “Compared to your previous suitors, I agree that Nizam seems like the perfect match. But you need more time to understand him better and see him clearly—not just through the lens of these initial feelings.”

“I know it seems rushed,” Layna said. “But it just feels right. I can’t explain it. Do you remember the stories Mama told us as children? I think she was right that some souls meet before ever setting foot on this earth, and then they recognize each other when they meet again. I feel that way with Nizam.”

Soraya snorted. “Mama also told us stories about the monstrous Sun Slayer who’d come and steal us away if we didn’t go to sleep.”

“Soraya, I’m serious!” Layna exclaimed, swatting her sister’s arm. Frowning, she narrowed her eyes as the younger princess broke out in a fit of giggles.

Huffing in annoyance, her gaze drifted as she considered Soraya’s words. “Yes, you’re right about Baysaht’s customs. And you’re right to remind me to be cautious. But Nizam seems different. I’ve been open with him about our customs, and he actually seemed impressed,” Layna defended. “Still, I’ll take my time and learn more about him. Thank you for caring so much.” She squeezed her sister’s hand in gratitude.

Soraya enveloped her in a tight hug. “Goodnight,” she said. “Sleep well. And without nightmares.” Layna gave her a strained smile, her eyes darting to her lap.

After Soraya left, Layna lay awake for hours. The prospect of exploring what lay ahead with Nizam filled her with hope. He was a strong match for her kingdomandsomeone she felt genuine attraction toward.

But Soraya was right. While Layna was already picturing her future with Nizam, what vision didhesee for them?

In the days that followed, Layna and Nizam spent hours together every day, their time interrupted only when Layna was called to council meetings or when King Khahleel sought Nizam’s counsel on Baysaht’s resources. Between casual strolls, earnest discussions, and shared meals, each encounter deepened their understanding of one another.

One sunny afternoon, Layna practiced her archery on the training grounds. Her hair was braided, with loose strands fluttering around her face in the gentle breeze. She wore a white sleeveless tunic and fitted trousers, both made of breathable fabric suited to the desert heat. A wide leather belt held her quiver, and sturdy boots protected her feet. As she drew her bow, sunlight glinted off the silver embroidery on her tunic.

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