Sheikh's Scandal(51)

                “You make it sound like we’re going to war.”

                He smiled and shook his head, dropping his hands. “Life is a war of choices, Aaliyah. Last night, neither of us made the best ones, but that does not mean we rush headlong into rash decisions this morning.”

                She missed the touch of his hands, but told herself not to be a fool. “We look at our options and take responsibility.”

                Something Liyah believed in very strongly and couldn’t help being glad he did, too.

                Sayed was no Gene Chatsfield.

                “Exactly.” Sayed’s tone was laced with satisfied approval, his gaze almost warm before he turned very serious. “However, some responsibilities carry greater weight than others.”

                “What do you mean?”

                “I need to return to Zeena Sahra. Tahira’s actions will have long-reaching consequences for our country.”

                Feeling unaccountably bereft at the thought of his abandonment, Liyah nevertheless nodded. “I understand.”

                “Good. It is unfortunate you will not be able to work out your notice, but it is fortuitous that you already made your plans to leave.”

                “What? Why won’t I work out my notice?”

                “I’ve told you, we must leave for Zeena Sahra immediately.”

                “You said you had to leave.”

                He gave her a look that said she wasn’t following him. “Naturally you must come with me.”

                “Why?”

                “You may carry my child.”

                “But we don’t know.”

                “And until we do, you will be under my protection and care.”

                “But—”

                “Come, do not tell me you would not love to visit the country of your mother’s birth.”

                “I would, very much, but under different circumstances than these.”

                He shrugged. “We make of our circumstances what we wish them to be.”

                “Remember that when you’re dealing with the fallout from Tahira’s elopement.” Liyah felt bad as soon as she said the words. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make light of what you’re going through.”

                “Apology accepted. Now, let us prepare for our trip.”

                “I didn’t say I was going.”

                “But you will.” He smiled winningly. “What better guide to introduce you to the magic that is Zeena Sahra than its emir?”

                “I don’t remember you being this persuasive last night.” Bossy, yes, persuasive, no.

                “It is another facet of my character for you to come to know.”

                * * *

                As the jet taxied down the runway, Liyah marveled at how efficiently Sayed’s people worked.