Page 56 of Modern Romance November 2024 5-8

‘It’s a yes or no answer, Sahir.’

A smile almost ghosted his lips at her demand for a straightforward answer. It was not the time to explain the intricate laws and the mysterious ways of his land, but neither would he lie.

‘Yes.’

‘I abhor violence...’ Violet stepped forward. ‘And I’ve always said there’s no excuse for it—whatever the circumstance. Even so, never say never!’

She slapped his cheek.

He could have stopped her—he had reflexes like lightning and was the most skilled warrior—yet he let the slap land before catching her wrist. He’d allow her to have that one...and not just because he deserved it, but because now he had contact.

He could feel her pulse hammering beneath his fingers. Knew that despite appearances she was not just furious but petrified. And, yes, again he inhaled her fear...

‘Violet...’

His voice halted, but not because he was without words. Just with the simple act of her reclaiming her hand, all they had shared—all the laughter and affection and trust, everything so easily built—had dissolved and he fought for its return.

‘You’re safe,’ he told her.

‘How can you even say that?’

‘I swear you are safe.’

‘I shall never forgive you,’ Violet promised.

For the first time since arriving he saw the shimmer of tears, and he could feel not just her terror but her devastation.

‘You slept with me, and now I find out that you’re getting married.’

He reached for her. ‘It’s not how it seems...’

‘Don’t!’

She took back her wrist, turned and walked away.

‘Where are you going?’ he demanded.

Not only was he not used to anyone walking away from him, he had thought there was much more to discuss. As well as that, she was walking towards the music area.

‘To bed,’ she told him.

‘That is the musicians’ area.’

‘Not just for musicians...’ She threw the words over her shoulder as she walked off. ‘Pria gave me a tour. She called it your “entertainment area”.’ She was shouting again now. ‘I believe she meant it’s where members of your harem await their summons.’

‘Yes, had I lived a century ago.’

‘Bedra showed me the cord above your bed.’

And now, instead of storming off to bed, she abruptly changed direction, taking a dagger from one of the walls.

He watched as she crossed the tent.

He didn’t follow, but knew full well what she was doing. The ancient bells in the musicians’ area jangled as she went into his sleeping quarters and cut through the cord over his bed. That was followed by a whip-like noise from above as the velvet was severed.

‘Sorted,’ she said, walking out again. ‘And for your information, I don’t answer to bells.’

‘I would never expect you to.’

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