My ears were stuffed with wool. My vision was clouded as though I was trying to look through water. I took a breath inward and instantly a heavy throbbing pain on the left side of my head spread to the rest of my skull.

I blinked a few times, and the watery visions began to clear. I could make out faces before me. One of them was Weret's face and I could detect her fretful voice wailing over my demise. My head was tilted to the ceiling; I was in my bedroom. I could just make out Zulekia's tall slim figure beside Weret, but it was blocked by the presence of a newcomer who had moved into my range of vision.

"All here, child?" he asked me. His voice had a crackling texture that tickled the insides of my ears.

"Here," I managed in a dry croak. The newcomer's skin was tanned leather. His fringed forehead reminded me that he was a physician. I moaned as the physician cradled the back of my neck and turned it one way and then the other. His thumbs pressed hard into my temples, causing me to moan louder. Then he stopped and the pain subsided.

"There is no permanent damage to the skull," he assured Zulekia. "The substance in her head will eventually settle down."

"Praise the gods," she murmured.

By now, my eyes were able to strain further to notice Potiphar standing in the doorway. He was flanked by Joseph, who was balancing a tray of bandages and medicine.

"But the pains will continue for some time. She must not run, dance, or laugh too loudly," the physician cautioned. "For now, keep her in bed as much as possible and apply compresses."

"However, there is still reason for concern," he went on. "That bruise on her forehead will leave a shadow behind. This girl has been touched by death—Osiris has left his mark upon her."

I heard Zulekia and Weret gasp. "It cannot! It cannot!" Weret cried out, wringing her hands. "Neith will not abandon her!"

The ache in my head made it difficult to take in all the voices in the room. It took much effort for me to wet my parched lips, but I managed to say in a whisper, "Thirsty."

Potiphar did not need to instruct his servant. Within a heartbeat Joseph's blue eyes were hovering over my bed. I winced when I saw him, for his eyes were too bright for me to take him in clearly. I felt his hand cup the back of my head like a potter shaping his craft and then he tipped a cup of water against my mouth. I swallowed but some of the water trickled down the sides of my mouth. He wiped them away with a piece of fresh cloth.

"Can anything be done to lift the curse of death?" Zulekia asked the physician.

The man nearly whirled on her in rage. "You think to defy Osiris, god of the underworld?" he demanded. "I have seen children younger than this one carried off within a night! What was done cannot be undone. Sacrifice to him if you wish. But consider yourselves fortunate if she only suffers dizzy spells and headaches to come."

"We will do what we can," Potiphar said calmly.

The physician rummaged around in his bag and removed two amulets. One was painted bright yellow and formed as a man with a falcon's head. The other was an elaborate carving of a green eye. I recognized them as Horus and his healed eye.

"Let the son of Osiris, blessed be the guardian of all Pharaohs, watch over this girl," announced the physician solemnly. "May Horus looks with favor and mercy upon her. As his own sight was healed, let this girl's body be healed. May her life be extended." He handed the amulets to Zulekia. I saw Joseph shift uncomfortably, but he said nothing.

"Now we must let the patient rest." The physician gathered his things and slung his bag over his shoulder. "You said the slave found her fallen by the riverbank?"

"And carried her back," Potiphar added. His voice was formal as ever but his back was to Joseph so he could not see what I saw; the Semite had tucked his chin into his chest and averted his eyes modestly.

"It was fortunate it he found her or else she would have bled out." The physician glanced over his shoulder and spoke directly to me. "It seems that Neith still knows you, child."

Weret took pains that I should swallow the foul black substance the physician left as my medicine that drew me back into thick dreamless sleep. I thought I would slumber that night and dream of Neith showing favor to me again or Horus and his healed eye but neither of them were in my head. Instead, the images of blue skies and green lakes swam through my thoughts.

Osiris did not take me that day. But the aftermath of falling would indeed leave its mark on me for the rest of my life.

A-A-A

My guardians took pains to gain Horus' favor. They had purchased further talismans and hung them above my head to hasten my recovery. Potiphar and Zulekia offered loaves baked from the finest-sifted flour to Horus and burned incense to appease him. The house was filled with the strange combination of exquisite bread and delicate spice for several days.

I would see my reflection in a bowl of water that revealed the dark-blue thumbprint on my forehead where the bruise had swelled. In time, the bruise faded to purple, then green, and finally yellow. I was able to get out of bed and walk about the house but running still made me dizzy, so my steps were slower and weighed down. It was a great distress to a curious child such as I, who was accustomed to moving about the estate easily.

Weret was relieved but scolded me for my foolishness. "Just imagine the expense your guardians had to pay for the physician's services," she chided me. "And they have had to purchase all those amulets and make gifts to Horus all for your sake! This is what comes of being a wicked headstrong girl." I was so distressed that I wept and told her how remorseful I felt and how badly I wanted to be a virtuous girl.

Hearing this, she grunted and patted me on the head. Then she begrudgingly added, "There may be hope for you yet".

Zulekia's lecture to me was short and to the point: an aspiring lady must take cautious steps. I accepted her lesson with more composure and promised that I would not do such a rash thing again.

Potiphar did not need to shout or raise his voice to teach me consequences. But his rebuke hurt the most of all. "I am disappointed in your behavior, Asenath," he told me. "As a punishment for being reckless, you will stay home."

My head hung in shame as I struggled to hold back tears of disappointment. I had desperately wished to accompany him and Zulekia on their four-day excursion to the governor's house in Armana. They had been discussing this journey for a month; the governor's gardens were said to rival Pharoah's own gardens. Zulekia had mentioned she would consider permitting me to go but now that opportunity had been sealed shut before me.

Potiphar continued speaking in his crisp voice. "You will remain on these grounds until you have proven to me that you can be a responsible young woman. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, sir."

"Good." His mouth remained a hard line straight as a sword, but his brow finally smoothed out. "While we are gone, Manu will be protecting our estate from the gates and Joseph will be managing the daily affairs from within. Remember that they are not to be disturbed while they work.

"We are not anticipating any visitors or summons from Pharoah over the next four days so all will be quiet here," added Zulekia.

I thanked her and blessed them both on their journey.

A-A-A

They had been gone only one day and already I was bored.

It was a dull afternoon. The air hung thick and heavy around the estate, causing my nurse to excuse herself on account of a headache. I looked over the balcony to see Manu sitting in the courtyard, a jug of beer in his hand. It was a wondered he hadn't fallen over into a stupor by now, but he was a big man who could withstand many cups.

I left the balcony and came back into my room. I climbed into a chair and listened to the sounds around me. One minute dragged lazily into the next. I tried to preoccupy my mind by making up stories, but my head still pained. A fly buzzed in and out of the room. The river made a soft sucking sound as hot air brushed over its surface. There was the thwack thwack thwack of slaves beating their tools against the dry earth.

I finally heard the sound of a chair scraping against the ground followed by some shuffling of feet over dirt. Manu must have gone inside. I was sure he would meet Weret in the kitchen to quarrel over politics. They did so enjoy discussing what went on in Pharaoh's court.

I felt so isolated and restless that I might just vanish into the air.

A soft footstep in the door woke me from an agitated half-sleep. There was Joseph, holding something within his cupped hands as a soft cool lantern against the day's heat.

"I hope I am not disturbing you," he murmured softly. I shook my head and he approached.

"This is for you. I hope it will help with your recovery." He offered me a blue lotus, its many petals pointed upwards and a ticklish fragrance coming off the center.

The last of my aggravation dissolved as I took it from him. "Thank you. It is kind of you to bring it to me." I brought the flower to my face to inhale the scent and then placed it next to my water jug.

"I was thinking-" He hesitated before speaking again. "I cannot disobey the master's orders while he is out. But if you wish for companionship, I will bring supper to your room this evening."

Anticipation gave me strength to sit upright. "This evening? Is tonight the eve of your Sabbath?"

He nodded to me. "It will not be considered a violation of protocol if I am assisting one in recovery."

My heart danced within my chest. I wanted to shriek with delight but urged myself to contain my emotions. I took a deep breath, folded my hands in my lap, and said as primly as I could, "That will do" as I had seen Zulekia done it many times before.

A twitch, a quick flicker, appeared in the corner of Joseph's mouth. It had occurred so quickly I daresay he had smothered the urge to smile. But now with grave formality he said, "Very well. I will arrange for everything at sundown."

A-A-A

"God made men because He loves stories." -Yiddish proverb

A-A-A

It took much effort to tamper down my impatience, but I reminded myself not to ruin this second chance. I gave myself plenty of time to prepare so that I would not get another dizzy spell. I washed my hands and face, put on a clean dress, and brushed my hair without Weret's help. I couldn't braid it without her, so I pulled it away from my face and bound it at the base of my neck with a leather cord.

Surely the God of Joseph would want me to appear suitable in His presence.

Sunset was approaching when I gazed outside to see the fiery sun had descended into the horizon at last. The air retained some of the day's heat, but a white-crystal star was glimmering in the violet sky outside my window. I took it as a good omen. Joseph arrived shortly bearing a large woven basket. Out of this he took his two oil lamps and placed them upon the table. Then he extracted the loaves of bread, a jug, cups, and bowls of stew. I stood obediently on the side of the room while he arranged everything.

First, he placed the lamps upon the windowsill. I watched Joseph kindle them using a small lamp that was already burning away upon the shelf. He extended his hands over the lamps and then placed his palms over his eyes. His lips barely moved as he uttered something over the two tiny flames. When this was concluded, his palms dropped to his sides and he joined me at the table.

He poured liquid for me into an earthenware cup. I was about to take a sip when I noticed he had poured into his own cup but was not drinking it yet. Instead, he lifted the cup up to the height of his eyes and murmured something in a low melancholy voice. The dying molten sun had slipped behind the horizon outside the window. A slim strand of cool fresh air stole into the room. I felt the hairs on my arms rising up. Surely in this twilight hour, I would see Him.

"Will you tell me the words of your Semite prayer?" I asked Joseph.

He lowered his cup back onto the table. "It is different your tongue, but the words are close to this: Blessed are You, our Lord, our God, King of the world, who has created the fruit of the vine."

He sat down and sipped his drink. I took a tiny sip and was startled by the tart taste of watered-down wine.

Joseph must have seen noticed the look of surprise on my face because he explained, "Potiphar has given me a small ration of wine every week. I have been saving it for this occasion."

He proceeded to make a similar blessing over the bread, then broke a loaf in half and gave it to me. I was delighted to find it was different from ours, though flatter and with a harder crust.

"I hope it is edible," he explained. "I baked it myself."

"And the stew too?"

"I want to make my own preparations for the Sabbath."

I kept my eyes on my bowl and ate the stew with a careful methodical motion. It tasted spicier than the usual dishes from the kitchen, but I hardly noticed it. All the while keeping my eyes flitting around the room.

We ate in silence for several moments until Joseph spoke.

"You cannot see Him."

I jerked my head up in alarm, anticipating a mocking smile or rebuke from him. But his eyes were calm and steadfast as they starred at my face, and I was suddenly afraid now that he had read into my thoughts. There was no need to say aloud who I was speaking of for Joseph knew it as clearly as he could see me before him.

"Why not?" I asked, my heart beating madly.

"He has no mortal form."

"Then how do you know where-where He is?"

"He is everywhere. He is here, even now."

Now fresh heat burst into my cheeks. I felt ashamed and humiliated for put on such a spectacle and only gotten disappointment for myself in the end.

"You're lying," I accused him with a pout. "You just did all of this to mock me."

Joseph lifted his chin up to mine. For the first time I was starring closely into his face and what I saw in those peculiar blue eyes caused a deep ache to burn within my chest and my throat to close up painfully. An outsider he might be but there was pride in him, and I had wounded him greatly.

"I would not lie in the name of the Lord," he told me quietly. And even in that soft voice came the offense that accused me of insulting him.

"If He has no form, then how do you know how to serve Him? Or what pleases Him?"

Never would I have asked so many questions to a person all at once—now they tumbled out of my mouth. If I had asked Weret, she would say she did not know or else I was too inquisitive and would wear out my tongue with questions. Zulekia would likely inform me that it was not my place to debate the gods. I dared not ask Potiphar anything so boldly. And no slave would have had any resolution for me.

But Joseph stood between worlds now, not yet a slave of the fields nor a man of the house. For one that did not stand in any official place in society, oddly enough, he was the best one suited to ease my restless mind.

"My father and my father's father have served Him for generations. From them I have inherited instructions how to serve Him best."

"And He wants you to have a day of rest to serve Him." Joseph nodded.

"Why?" I persisted.

It was his turn to fumble for words and appear uneasy. "Well….it is a tale not told here in Egypt…"

I was ready to command him to tell it to me when I thought better of it, remembering how my attempt to give orders had turned out badly.

"Would you tell me such a story?" I asked. And then added, "It would take my mind off my headache."

Joseph appeared lost in deep thought for a few moments. "I do not wish to anger the master by telling you things that contradict his beliefs," he reminded me. "If I tell you such a thing, will you promise that it will not leave these four walls?"

"I promise," I assured him. When Joseph still looked worried, I said, "Who have I to share these 'things' with? Weret has no interest in your God. Potiphar and Zulekia only wish me to be obedient. I can hear a thing and keep it to myself."

He finally relented with a sigh. "Very well. This is the story that I heard from my father, as he heard it from his father.

Joseph parted his lips and began to speak. "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth," he said. "The earth was greatly empty, with darkness upon the surface of the deep, and the spirit of God hovered above the surface of the waters…"

When he talked, his tone had become grave yet beautiful as a finely tuned instrument. My limbs went still from the poetic words and my thoughts became calm as I heard how this Almighty had formed all things. I had never heard of so much being formed out of emptiness like this. As Joseph spoke, it was as though some void I did not know existed within me was already being filled.

"…God said, 'Let there be light' and there was light. God saw the light was good, and God separated between the light and darkness. God called to the light 'Day' and to the darkness He called 'Night'," Joseph murmured. "And there was evening and there was morning—one day."

He continued in his strange incantation, and I listened, my stomach no longer hungry for food and my mind growing anxious to learn more. He spoke to me of the second day when waters were formed, of the third day when earth sprouted green grass and plants, of the fourth and fifth day, creating the celestial forces and then the birds of the sky and fish of the sea.

But on the sixth day, God said, "Let us make man" and so a man called Adam was formed out of earth and his helpmate, Eve, alongside him. Here was no slimy pit from which man was made nor any hacking of limbs or dripping of blood as was often with our gods. In this tale, a human being was formed with the delicacy of a master craftsman. He was created with love and purpose, with honor and grace.

"God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it because He abstained from His work which God created to make," Joseph said at last.

"I see," I interrupted him, ignored my rudeness. "You rest on the seventh day because God also rested on the seventh day."

When Joseph confirmed, I added proudly, thinking I was clever: "He must have been exhausted after creating the world in just six days. So, He had to sleep for centuries to recover, yes?"

Joseph shook his head, but I was too curious to be aware that he was contradicting me. "The word is not 'rest' but 'abstain'," he corrected me gently. "God does not grow tired nor sleep like human beings. He did not create anything on the seventh day to teach us that all labor must put them aside for a day to recognize He is the master of the world."

My brow must have been puckered because Joseph rose from the table and pointed outside. Already the sun was gone and a pale half-moon, shrouded with clouds, hung low in the sky. "See that moon illuminating the river?" he asked me.

"How do we know it will go away at the end of the night and that the sun will rise tomorrow again? Only if my people take a day of rest do they know that all things are not within our control. We cannot bend everything to our will. Only the will of God will stand. I will not labor tomorrow, do business, or till the earth. But I know that as He wills it, the moon will move across the sky and the sun will rise in the morning."

"Khonsu makes the moon," I protested. "And Ra makes the sun rise."

His eyes glinted in my direction. "Are you certain?"

I said nothing. Joseph also was silent. I knew I was only repeating my childhood lessons but now they had collided a new lesson, something greater and deeper than anything I had learned before. It was as though my feet thought they had touched the bottom of the Nile, only to step further into deeper waters where greater treasures of the deep had yet to be discovered.

"I will not disobey the master," Joseph reminded me. "And I beg you to keep your word not to speak this to anyone."

I confirmed for him that I would keep my word. This tale he had told me was too special to blurt out to Weret on a whim. What's more, I knew by now that Joseph was a special man. I would not gush and praise his special tale as though it was a child's folly.

"I am glad you have shared this story with me," I told him.

"I am honored to have shared it with you." He proceeded to pack everything back in his basket. "Shall I send for your nurse?"

"No, I think I'll go to bed right away."

"Does your head still pain you?"

"A little," I admitted.

"Then I will bring you a poultice."

By the time he came back with the poultice, I was already in bed with my head facing the ceiling. Joseph placed it upon my head and the pungent smell of coriander seemed to stop up my nose. I could feel the side of my head pulsing again.

"Is that better?"

I admitted it wasn't helping. Joseph took it away and returned with fresh cloths and a bowl of water. He wrung them out and laid the cool compresses upon my head. I was moved by his thoughtfulness and gentle manners. But the throbbing sensation continued as though my head was weighed down inside with stones.

Half-asleep and drowsy from the wine, I was vaguely aware of a hand barely touching my scalp. I did not even have the strength to tell him that my nurse would not approve. But the sensation was the same warm pleasant one as a wool blanket enfolding me and warming me after a chilled day. I barely heard him murmur something in his Semite tongue as sleep drew closer to me:

"El nah, refah nah lah."

Joseph withdrew his hand and slumber covered my thoughts.

A-A-A

Three days later:

Potiphar and Zulekia returned home with energetic pleased faces. The governor had exchanged much worthwhile news with Potiphar and promised to send him a suitable architect within the next few weeks to improve the courtyard. Zulekia's designed plans had been modified and Potiphar said he was going to teach Joseph so that the Semite would learn something about construction.

When he asked me if I had behaved myself, I answered in the positive. Weret confirmed it and so did Joseph. If Potiphar had asked me if Joseph had done anything out of the ordinary, I was already prepared to tell him how the evening went: Joseph saw I was retiring early with a headache and so he brought a meal and poultice to my room. That would have been my answer.

But Potiphar did not ask for details and so I let the matter remain in the past.

Zulekia came back with some toys for me. They were all animals baked out of clay: a crocodile, a bird, a horse, and a cow. They did not hold as much pleasure for me as they would have three years ago but I still thanked her and still managed to amuse myself for an afternoon with them.

Her own excursion had been a success. With the extra profits coming, she had already sent for more jewelry and finer robes for herself. And the architect had a merchant who gave Zulekia some samples of new incense and makeup.

Here was a lesson in instruction for me. She had sent for me, and I was now in her room, sitting before her large copper mirror. Zulekia showed me how to line my eyes with kohl to fend off the sun. My hand was not as skilled as her and she had to assist me in the task. I peered in the mirror and was pleased how the kohl accented my eyes, narrowing them from round orbs to almond shaped. But I wished my cheeks were not so full, my nose was of a different shape, and that my small husky body would gain a woman's curves and breasts. I wished to be slender and sharp like Zulekia. And like her, I wanted to wear fine red rogue that made people startle in astonishment at her beauty.

She had no further instruction in eye makeup for now and instead, turned her attention to the incense samples. The first one was a wispy bundle of twigs. I sniffed it and found the aroma pungent but not unpleasant.

"Is this myrrh?" I asked her.

"Indeed. And specially-ground to provide service in the temples," she told me.

The second sample had a floral fragrance so light and delicate that just the smell reassured me it was harmless. This one, she explained, was kapet. It was a popular incense for soothing sore skin.

"And this one?" I asked, pointing to the last one. It looked the most unappealing and the least like incense: just a hardened red sponge.

But Zulekia smiled secretly at me. "Smell it first," she told me. I brought it to my nose and then a rich heady scent washed over me. It made my head swim, and my thighs tremble It made me want to breath deeper, laugh louder, and sleep longer than ever before.

Zulekia took it from me and put it back into the box. "That, my dear, is a rare incense burned for when a man and women are together at night."

"You mean…" I lowered my voice as soft as I could manage. "You mean making love?"

She gave me a little playful smile and nodded. Then she sealed the box as a sign that this demonstration of adult life was over.

A-A-A

After the wheat and barley had been gathered, our estate turned attention into turning grapes into wine or dried cakes and the olives into oil. Under Joseph's instruction, none of the grapes withered on the vine nor were the olives bitter. I put a grape in my mouth one day and found it bursting with such ripe juice that it seemed saturated in its own honey. If God had truly made these fields and these fruits, He must have been pleased with our place in the world.

The architect and his wife were to visit the estate one evening. Joseph had been tasked with cleaning the dining room, setting the table, and decorating it for the guests. He was given four hands to carry out the orders and had done well. The curtains were corded in place with red tassels and the air was lightly scented from fresh flowers brimming in bowls.

Potiphar wore a fine collar made of flattened gold disks while Zulekia wore gold bracelets on both wrists. I thought them both so dignified that when I was summoned to the table, I felt shabby in their presence. But at least my dress was clean and Zulekia had lent me a sash to tie around my waist. And Potiphar had fetched my amulet and now it rested just above my heart, shining upon my chest for all to see.

The architect complimented Potiphar on the room while his wife lavished praise upon Zulekia's exquisite dress and bangles. I was told I was a "pretty girl" and "polite" enough to be silent in the presence adults. At first, I beamed from their compliments and savored the fatty roasted duck that Joseph brought to the table. But soon I became fatigued from the meal. No one had spoken to me in over and hour and Joseph was too busy pouring the wine and serving the food to talk to me. I just ate from my plate and starred out the window.

Finally, they stopped discussing farming and politics long to say something that pricked my ears.

"Asenath will make a good match someday," said the architect's wife. "Have you a suitable husband in mind?"

I felt a cold prick between my shoulder blades. The thought of being taken from this house by a stranger was not appealing.

"I am not yet ready to negotiate her dowry," said Potiphar diplomatically.

"Besides, Asenath has some years to grow up," Zulekia told her with an amused smile. "Let us wait until she has become a woman."

I blushed at her words. I had pleaded with Neith for weeks now, beseeching her to let my blood flow and my body blossom. In spite of my prayers, my monthly courses had still not come. It vexed me to know I could not yet cross over the river from child to woman. And this talk of marriages and negotiations made me uneasy still.

"What say you, Asenath?" the architect called to me from the head of the table. "I have a nephew who is fifteen and cleverer than two grown men. Will he do?"

My tongue stuck to the roof of my mouth. I could not answer for fear had seized me. My eyes darted to Joseph by instinct, as if he could do anything about it. His eyes barely met mine before he looked down to properly refill his master's cup. I just sat there as deaf and dumb as a rock in the road. The architect and his wife laughed aloud together.

"I think it is time for Asenath to retire," Potiphar decided aloud.

I rose and bowed to my guardians and their guests, thanking everyone for allowing me to join them the table and giving them blessings in the name of Amun-Ra. Then I gave the amulet back to Potiphar for safekeeping and stepped towards the door.

My nurse led me by the hand to my room, where I wept for a good half hour before finally falling asleep.

The next day, Joseph was walking by when he saw me picking at my food. "Are you ill? Should I send for something else in the kitchens?" he offered.

I shook my head.

"Your guardian said there is still time before any arrangements regarding your future are made," he spoke into my thoughts. I was startled by his perception. He had read the worry on my face and was now speaking to soothe my fears.

"How do you know this?"

"The conversation continued after you went to bed."

I starred at him in disbelief. "Why are you telling me this?" I asked him.

"You did not tell the master the story of my God," explained Joseph. "I know I can trust you with these words."

Relief came over me. Joseph had given me a responsibility and I had held it steadfast to myself. I would continue to safeguard my lips.

"The master is an honorable man," added Joseph. "I am certain he will select a husband worthy of you when the time is right."

To know that my guardian thought better of me, even after my fall, was a relief. "I am glad to hear it," I said to Joseph. "Was there any other discussion last night after I left?"

"The architect wanted to buy me from the master. But the master would not negotiate, not at any price." He added with amusement, "It seems you must continue to bear my Semite manners and traditions."

I was not dismayed. But nor did I feel relieved from Joseph's words. All I could consider was how similar our circumstances were; both of us to be measured and weighed out for the benefit of others.

"Oh," was all I could say.

"My lady, there is something I do not understand. I was hoping you may be able to enlighten me."

Joseph took a step closer and set his tray down upon the table. "Why is gold revered so much in this land?"

"Because it is the color of the sun, blessed be Ra, who shines his life and light down upon us all," I said, echoing Zulekia's words. She had drummed this lesson into me last year.

"And you revere it too?"

My shoulders twitched restlessly. "I like gold. I think it is beautiful," I answered frankly. "I like the way it shines in the sunlight and catches fire in the sunset. And it can do wonderous things too. My lady has told me how gold can be heated until it is quite soft and malleable. The best craftsmen know how to shape it into wonderous bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.," I added.

I cocked my head to one side. "Why do you ask such things? Does gold not please you too?"

"It is a fine metal indeed," he answered slowly. "But I find silver to be of great admiration."

"Why?"

I watched his expression soften and a shine appear in his eyes. At last, he said: "Because it reminds me of the color of my mother's eyes."

Here he picked up his tray and with haste, existed the room before I could press him further. I would have begged him to speak more of his own mother but I, knowing nothing about my own lineage, decided to wait until he would bring up the subject again.

I wonder what color eyes my mother had, I pondered to myself.

A-A-A

The next time I was summoned for the evening meal, I asked Zulekia if silver was revered as much as gold.

She looked taken aback for a moment before she spoke. "Silver is indeed precious," she told me. "If gold forms the flesh of the gods, then silver forms their bones. It makes fine scarab rings and bangles that we may wear to show our reverence for them."

"Then why is silver not as common as gold here?" I questioned.

Potiphar answered for me. "Because it does not come out of our earth. Silver must be brought into Egypt from other lands and traded for our goods."

Here he turned his attention directly to me. "Your question was an astute one, Asenath. How did you to come to ask such a thing?"

I opened my mouth and was ready to tell them about Joseph's answer. But then I knew Zulekia would not approve of me confiding in Joseph and Potiphar would rebuke me for distracting him. What's more, Joseph had taken me into his confidence. I dared not break that silver thread of trust he had extended to me.

So, I decided to meet the truth halfway by stating how fine my guardians looked last night and how curious I was about their new ornaments. That part was sincere, at least on my behalf.

"If you continue to be a good girl and obey your orders then when you are older, I will make a fine gold chain for you to wear around your neck so that others will know you are a lady," Potiphar promised me.

"And a string of lapis lazuli beads to go with it," added Zulekia.

A-A-A

Work on the courtyard was already going at a fast pace. The old well had been dismantled and new plants were being brought in under Zulekia's instructions. For six weeks I saw the architect collaborating with Joseph over plans. They seemed to be cooperating well for the foundations were laid in without problems and the fine rows of green leaves, surrounded by new cut stones in red, yellow, and white, were to make a remarkable mosaic across the courtyard.

The architect left after less than two months because he said that there was nothing else to teach Joseph and he was certain the rest of the details would be set into place under the Semite's hand. He bid Joseph farewell and gave him a small pouch of silver, saying there would be more of that if he considered service elsewhere. But Joseph would not be detoured. He brought the silver to Potiphar, which made him even more respectable in his master's eyes. Even Zulekia seemed satisfied with Joseph's work and had cast off her scorn for him.

I was also healing well and could run down to the river, though I did not race as fast as I used to do so, lest a stumbling block appear in my path. Potiphar must have thought the same thing or at least want to prevent me from stumbling again because he gave Joseph a new task: teaching me writing and basic numeration.

Insomuch as I welcomed the opportunity to ask him more questions, I did not care for these instructional lessons.

"But my head will not grasp this," I whined to Joseph at the third lesson. "It is dull."

I thrust my hand away from the plank of wood and stuck out my feet.

Joseph slumped back in his seat and with a deep sigh of frustration, ran his hand through his hair. It had grown longer now, almost down to his ears in soft curls, and lost the laughable spikey appearance of when he first came. I thought it improved his face but the frustration in his expression marred it.

Until now I had no care for a slave's feelings. But Joseph's present discomfort was making me aware that he was here at the behest of my guardian, and I was hindering his duties. He continues to frown until I felt uncomfortable and began fidgeting in my seat.

A breeze blew through the curtains and caused the edges of the scroll to flicker and flap against the table.

At last, Joseph spoke. "Perhaps if we agreed to trade," he suggested slowly.

"Trade?" My right instinctively covered the beloved beads that encircled my left wrist. The action caused the frown to smooth away from his face. It was not replaced with a full smile but a small glimpse of amusement in the corners of his mouth.

"Not a trade of goods but of services," Joseph assured me. "If you complete these three written lines, I will consider the lesson concluded. And then I will tell you another story."

Another one? Just as interesting as the first? I seized the piece of wood before me and gripped the inky reed in the other hand. It was still difficult work for me, and Joseph was a thorough, if not detailed teacher. But he was also patient and continued to urge me on with a firm but steady voice. It took me two times, but I managed to complete the three lines of writing before me.

That afternoon, he told me the story of a flood that God sent to wash away the world's wickedness. But one righteous man had been instructed to build a boat to hold him, his family, and two of all the creatures of the earth. Rain descended for forty days and nights until nothing else was left. A dove was sent from the boat and after many days, it returned with an olive branch in its mouth as a sign of hope. At last the waters receded and God informed the man to leave the boat. The man, his family and all of the animals walked out of their floating home and into a world made anew for them. Life would flourish again upon the earth.

Another week, Joseph told me a story about men who sought to build a tower up to the heavens until their tongue were twisted and they quarreled among themselves. They lobbed bricks at each others heads and grew so enraged that the tower came crashing down. There was one story about a nomad who roamed the deserts, even visiting Egypt, before pitching his tent in the wilderness and offering food and drink to all who came his way. There was another story about a wicked woman who turned into a pillar of salt and another about a virtuous woman of great beauty and grace who watered ten camels and was rewarded by marrying a prince. He told me about two sons: a wild hunter with rough red skin and his twin, a gentle man of the tents who studied the words of God.

When Joseph ran out of stories, he told me about the land of Canaan. He described the cool climate, the rocky mountains and grass-laden slopes of its path, and the rain that descended from swollen gray clouds down to the ground to water the harvest.

"But doesn't the rain descend on schedule just as the Nile floods our crops every year?" I inquired.

"It does not," said Joseph. "Our lives are harder if the rains do not come every year. All things in the ground wither up and the sheep cry out when they do not have grass to eat."

"Then what happens?"

"We must dig wells for water or move our tents to better pastures."

I puckered up my lips. "Then you should all leave your tents and come live by the Nile."

He smiled softly at me but did not laugh at the folly of my words.

"I look forward to the rains," he told me. "I enjoy the sensation of cold drops when they touch your skin and tickle your face. I love the different types of music it makes when it beats upon your roof."

"Music?" I asked curiously.

"Sometimes it is the cascading sound of many beads coming down," said Joseph. "Other times it is the steady beating of drums. And sometimes when the rain is especially fierce, I close my eyes and imagine it is a stampede of mighty horses thundering across the ground."

When he spoke such words, the room was filled with a peculiar silence that made my heartbeat loudly within my chest and left me filled with awe at the reverent words that came from his lips. Until now, I thought the whole of my world ended at the border of our estate and the universe ended where the gods dueled each other for power.

But here was a man showing and teaching me things beyond my current grasp, opening up my mind to new wonders and sights. He was one who could see the beauty in such simple everyday things and cherish them as if they were splendid treasures. No sooner did his answers slack my curiosity then new questions would spring from me but he would never grow weary of answering these new questions. He and I would converse until the shadows had shifted across the room and Joseph told me the lesson was over.

By now I was starting to become aware of the growing admiration I had for him. In his presence, Joseph's voice was warm as the morning sun on my face. Every answer he gave to my never-ending list of questions was the first cool sip of water on a hot day. I anticipated the beginning of our lesson and felt disappointed when he had to depart for other duties.

But these feelings were the innocence of childhood. In my eyes Joseph was a friend and companion—nothing more. Nevertheless, even at the age of eleven, I knew that one good friend was worth ten fickle ones. I knew this as well as I knew one pure gold bangle was worth ten common beaded bracelets.

A new vision of hope budded within me. "If Potiphar adopts him as he did take me into his home, then then Joseph will be my brother. He will be as though of my flesh and blood," I thought gladly.

It was a pleasing thought. It kept me going through my lessons.

When we went down to the river with our lamps, I beseeched Amun-Ra and Neith to fulfill my request. I promised in return to serve them as a good girl. I would be an obedient ward, I would listen to Zulekia's instructions, and I would even consider marriage to a man Potiphar deemed suitable to be my husband.

All I asked from them is that Joseph join my family.

A-A-A

A fine evening descended upon the estate when Potiphar decided to have a banquet. The garden in the courtyard was complete and he had invited the architect, his family, and several other dignitaries to admire the Semite's handiwork. The upper members of the house were there too, including Zulekia's handmaidens and Manu. Weret complained her joints ached too much to stand on her feet for so long and so she was dismissed for the evening, allowed to take a cup of sweet wine with her to bed.

The first time I walked into the courtyard nearly took my breath away. An intricate labyrinth of multi-colored stones had been set out upon the earth with tall trees planted on either side like the pillars of Pharoah's court. Each tree was wreathed with red flowers at the base and taller yellow flowers planted in sets of four between them. It gave the appearance of one walking through flames without being burned. In the center was a lavish pool that had already been filled with water and now wide lilies skimmed across the top like lazy little boats.

A sumptuous meal had been set out. Lanterns decorated the walls and fine silken hangings fluttered in the pleasant night breeze. The guests were strolling around the garden and laughing as they chatted freely among themselves. I had also been made presentable and Zulekia introduced me to her guests, which I greeted respectfully. They smiled and said I was charming as a little doll but fortunately, they did not speak of betrothals or marriages. Everyone's manners were relaxed as the wine flowed freely in their cups.

Having made my rounds as the dutiful ward, I managed to escape any further attention by snatching a raisin cake off one of plate and keeping myself nearly invisible between the shadows of the trees. I chewed on my sweet and watched Zulekia, clad in fresh linen and wearing a collar of green stones, waving her arms elegantly as she talked to the women while Potiphar smiled openly and warmly to his guests. He must be in a good mood or have had much wine to be beaming so much in one evening.

Joseph was there too, also wearing pressed linen garments. After standing next to the table and serving wine to the guests, Potiphar relieved him of his duties and insisted on walking the young man around the courtyard and introducing him to the guests.

After some time, Potiphar clapped his hands together to get everyone's attention.

"I wish to thank all of our guests who have graced our home tonight, as well as our loyal staff who have kept the home steady and secure," he announced. "And praise to Amun-Ra who has brought us such bountiful harvest—blessed be his name!"

"Praise Amun-Ra!" everyone shouted.

Zulekia had left her group of women and taken her place next to Potiphar. He must have something important to tell everyone-and for a moment I feared it was my betrothal.

"The decision to expand this garden beyond my wife's original plans was not in vain. Our efforts have paid off and we now reap such riches as never experienced before. There is one tonight who has worked diligently to make all of this happen."

He gestured to the Semite and said, "Step forward, Joseph, son of Jacob."

Jacob! That was a new morsel of information for me to digest.

Joseph walked across the garden and respectfully nodded his head to his master.

"Honored guests and dutiful staff, you see before you a young man who has been a good laborer in my house," announced Potiphar. "He has performed every task with integrity and taste. His honesty, manners, and countenance have enriched our home and our fields. We have all reaped from his efforts. All that he is done has been good in the eyes of my wife and I."

"Therefore, I have made the decision to establish Joseph as the steward of my household."

Not a few murmurs stirred up. Some were in approval, others surprised. But none would dare protest against Potiphar. Their astonishment quickly turned to sounds of good cheer.

As for I, I also gasped in astonishment when I heard his words. Neith had heard my prayers! My heart leapt for joy at this wonderful news. Joseph would be lifted up high above his humble station to a fine place in the home.

"M-my lord!" Joseph stammered to Potiphar. Hearing of his master's declaration had brought Joseph down upon one knee. "Your generosity overwhelms me. But I am but a youth. I have so little experience in these matters."

"You have intelligence and that suffices me," Potiphar assured him. "My servants and I will continue to instruct and teach you. All I ask is for your ongoing allegiance to me."

"You have it, my lord. My life is yours."

"Then rise, son of Jacob." Joseph did as told and Potiphar gave him a rare nod of approval. "You have done well, Joseph. Your blessings have shined down upon my estate."

"Thank you, my lord," Joseph said meekly. "But it is my God, not I, who has given forth these blessings. I am but a mediator."

"Then may He continue to bless us through you," declared Potiphar.

Had the head of the household just acknowledged the God of his Semite servant? Will wonders never cease! I thought to myself.

Zulekia did not seem distressed. On the contrary, she was pleased, and I could tell her smile was genuine. She slipped a copper bangle off her arm and extended it to Joseph.

"You have served my husband well, Joseph. Accept this small token of my gratitude for the happiness you have brought into our lives."

He took the bracelet and slipped it up his arm, just below his right elbow.

I sighed in blissful delight. Being made the steward was not the same as a brother but nevertheless, I was sure that Potiphar would make Joseph his heir in due time. All things had worked out beautifully to our desires: Potiphar had the wealth and horses he desired, Zulekia would have further lovely dresses, and I would have this good Semite as my kinsman. The gods had heard our prayers and answered them adequately and at the exact time.

I praised Neith many times over my cup and thanked Amun-Ra as I counted the stars that night. I was sure all the gods would watch over us and continue to favor and protect us, so long as we revered them and paid tribute in their temples.

Little did I know in my childish mind and simple thoughts that the knife-sharp lesson of life would descend upon me soon. It would press against me and all around me in the near future to draw blood, sweat, and tears out of our tender bodies.

For that which we say we desire the most may not be what benefits us in the end. A craving once filled transforms in bigger and more terrible cravings until they are monstrous beings that can never be appeased.

And in the end, those things we scorn and mock, may yet have hidden worth to illuminate our blind eyes.

A-A-A

"Who is a rich man? He who is happy with his lot." -Ethics of Our Fathers

A-A-A

For several months we continued to bask in Joseph's success, reaping excellent crops and having a large comfortable home where everything was in its place. Zulekia had two new dresses made for me and while she hadn't given me a blue beaded bracelet yet, I anticipated one in the near future.

But gradually these rich changes began to bring other changes to the estate—and they were not of my liking.

With his new wealth, Potiphar had purchased four fine horses. Zulekia and I thought he looked magnificent as he rode up and down the lane outside the estate and were sure that anyone who saw him riding so tall and proud would have no doubt that he was indeed the best lord that Pharoah could ever have. But soon he took to riding so often, and was discussing horse-breeding with new merchants, that we barely saw him except at mealtime. I did not like him leaving Zulekia and I without added protection in the house while he was out. I felt exposed and unsafe and would have preferred to have his stern yet steadfast eye around.

Zulekia had also given up her lessons for me. She was preoccupied with her new gowns and ornaments, these she seemed to wear throughout the day even though her husband was seldom home. When Potiphar came home, she would chance back into her simpler attire. I thought this was odd, as it made sense to me that she should save her best garments for her husband. The only people who saw her in this finery were us, the member of the household, and Joseph.

Joseph was preoccupied too. The giggling handmaidens and other servants now relied upon his advice and so they plied him with questions, most of them useless and trivial that took up much of his time. If he was not overseeing the affairs of the household, I would see him leaning casually against a wall and smiling at a girl, basking in her attention as she rattled on endless chatter to him.

Yes, I was jealous. I do not deny it. All women have felt the viper's bite that burns in our bosom whenever we notice someone else has something that we want for ourselves. We may be little girls, dowagers, queens, or nomads but the experience is the same regardless of our cravings: trinkets, wealth, beauty, and power. But now looking back upon my adversity from years ago, it was good for me to experience this as a child. I had not the dangerous hand of authority to reach out and take what I wanted. I was harmless, naive. I could not hurt Joseph or the members of the estate. My anger would only wound myself. But humility and acceptance would soothe the viper's treacherous wound.

Usually, Joseph would come find me and tell me it was time for my lessons. But one day he was late, and I grew impatient. It was unlike him to forget. I followed the sound of voices down the steps and into the small antechamber next to the kitchens.

"Oh yes, the malachite would look much better on his eyes!"

"Mmm, I suppose you're right. But not too much ochre on the lips."

"Isn't it too much?" I heard Joseph say.

"Certainly not. This will add some fine color to the face."

"Tee hee! Just a little brush will do it."

"Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt."

I guessed the giggling sounds of two handmaidens. By the time I had turned around the corner and peeked into the room, my guess had been off. It was the handmaid Ahti and with her was a gardener named Apep. He had large brown eyes just like a gazelle and long dark eyelashes that made all the girls twitter with adoration. Seated between them was Joseph. The table was strewn with small pots and jars of cosmetics and there was a shredded stick on the table with some copper hairs clinging to it.

From my position, I could see the back of Joseph's head and admire his thick curls that now glistened brightly in the late-afternoon sun. He must have oiled them.

Apep leaned over in his seat until he could see me. "Look, Ahti," he declared. "A little kitten wants some attention to."

"More like a little lizard," she remarked.

Joseph finally turned around. I gasped when I noticed the black kohl painted around his eyes and the shimmering green powder upon his eyelids. He resembled one of the paintings upon our walls, to be sure, and for an instant I thought he could not have looked more striking. The eye paints had brightened his own eyes until they were finer than any gems I had ever seen.

But then I found it unsettling, even comical, for him to cover up his face. He would not be Joseph to me if he followed Ahti's instructions. He might as well have been trying to paint over the sun or the natural beauty of a tree.

He smiled at me, showing his teeth through the ochre on his lips. "Do I look like an Egyptian now?" he asked me.

Words failed me again. But this time, my body betrayed me by shaking with amusement. I suddenly burst out in laughter and shook my head. "You don't look like anyone!" I exclaimed. "Certainly not yourself!"

"Hush, you foolish girl," Ahti chided me.

Abruptly, Joseph got to his feet. His palm slammed upon the table, causing the pots to rattle fearfully.

"Get out," he barked at me.

That snapped me out of my humor. He might as well have cracked a whip in my direction; so fearful was I of this transformation in Joseph. I turned on heel and fled the room, bursting into tears on the way.

I did not stop until I reached my room and then I curled up into a corner, weeping quietly to myself. It was distressing to have someone you thought of as a friend behave in a way that seemed to betray their character.

"Asenath?" I heard him calling in the hallway.

I pushed a hand over my damp face. "Go away!" I shouted back. "Let me alone!"

"Asenath, I did not mean—"

"—you said I should get out, I got out!" I cried to him. "I do not want to speak to you! Please, just go away."

I held my breath until I heard the sound of Joseph's footsteps fade away. I could sense a headache swelling up within my head, so I rested upon my bed until the dark mood had passed.

After some time, I dared to get to my feet and gaze out of the window. Joseph was standing in the courtyard—no, bending over. He had scooped up water out of the pool and was rubbing his cupped hands all over his face. He must have noticed me because he jerked his head upwards and looked straight up at me from the window. For a flash of a moment, I could see his eyes, still stained with kohl, and they were piercing as a hawk's gaze.

I gasped and retreated back into my room.

For the rest of the week, I avoided his presence and his gaze. But when he was not looking at me, I was still observing him. Joseph continued to smile and nod at the girls in between his work on the accounts. He still brushed his hair and lined his eyes with kohl.

But he never painted his eyelids or mouth again.

A-A-A

"Asenath, isn't it time for your lesson?" Potiphar asked me.

Several days had passed and the waters of the Nile had ebbed back, allowing birds to nest within the reeds. The lane was clear, and Potiphar was making plans to ride with two other men. He had just saddled his horse and was about to climb onto it when he noticed me gathering flowers by the main gate.

I rose and pressed the little yellow blossoms to my chest. "I thought so, sir. But I also thought the steward would be busy with the accounts this afternoon."

Potiphar frowned. "Do not disobey your elders, Asenath," he chastised me, shaking a finger at my direction. "When I give you an order, I expect you to carry it out at once."

My error was obvious; I had not only talked back to my guardian but done so in front of his guests. I had shamed Potiphar with my rudeness. I bowed my head and said in a remorseful tone, "I am sorry, sir. You are correct. I will attend to my lesson at once."

"Make haste, child." He swung himself up upon his horse and rode off, his two companions trailing behind him.

As soon as they were gone, I threw the flowers down in disgust. My footsteps dragged as I made my way back into the house and thrust myself into a chair, waiting for Joseph.

He came soon with reeds, ink, and wooden tablets for writing. "I am sorry for being late," he apologized.

"It is fine," I mumbled. I picked up a reed pen and began to write down what he had taught me the last time.

"Asenath." Joseph took the pen from my hand and laid it down. "Please, hear my words. I truly want to apologize for shouting at you the other day, and for giving you orders too. It was not my place to do so."

My shoulders twitched towards him. "You are the steward of the estate now. You can do as you wish."

"But my station does not mean I should treat people poorly, especially you."

I kept my neck stiff and direct to the wall, but Joseph turned his head to one side to better move into my direction.

"Asenath, can we not be friends again?"

I jerked my head down to face my feet.

Joseph said in a slightly amused voice, "You may not know this, but I overheard Ahti declaring what fine eyes you have. No wonder you have no need to paint them."

This got my attention, and I lifted my head up, now looking at him directly. "Did she?"

"She did," he insisted. He smiled shyly at me. "And she's right. Your eyes are like cedar wood flecked with gold."

I surely flushed with blood from my head to my toes from the generous compliment.

"Sh-she probably just said that to sound impressive."

"I think she's envious of you and that's why she won't tell you to your face."

His cheery countenance was gradually thawing me out and I let my limbs start to relax in relief. Despite his curls and lined eyes, I could still see some of the old Joseph in this steward. That gave me hope.

"Do you really think my eyes are like gold-flecked cedar?" I asked him shyly.

"I do indeed." He said this with such a solemn air that I knew he was being honest with me. And he was someone I could be honest with too.

"I want us to be friends again too," I said at last.

"Good! Then let us be friends and forgive each other." He offered his hand to mine, and I took it. His palm was much larger than my own, warm and dry, yet he held my small one gently as though it was a baby bird.

"Now that we have that matter out of the way, let us turn to today's lesson."

I thought he would keep my head focused on the wooden plank but instead, Joseph rose and headed to the door. "What are you doing?" I asked.

"Showing you today's lesson." He gestured to the door. Intrigued, I walked out of the room and followed him down the corridor. Joseph continued walking to the main floor, then out the back entrance, and towards the river. All the while I tagged at his heels and pondered over what was next.

"Is this—today's lessons?" I gasped as I tried to keep up with his long legs.

"Of course! It has to be today of all days. But tread carefully," he added, as we waded through the reeds. He pushed some of them aside so that I could continue following him. Finally, at last, Joseph stopped. I was glad to stop too, as we had come far, and the estate was just above the horizon.

"Asenath, come look at this."

He was pointed to something small and round in the thicket of rushes. I stepped closer, carefully, and saw a perfectly formed nest with four pale-blue eggs inside of it.

"Oh!" I gasped. I knelt down gently next to Joseph who was also observing the eggs.

"How remarkable," he declared. "Do you see how well the nest was made? The mother bird had to fly near and far to bring every single twig here to create her home. She constructed everything she needed before her children were born."

"Won't the eggs get eaten up?"

"No, no," Joseph assured me. "She builds the nest too far inland for a crocodile to get to it. And after the eggs hatch, the birds grow, and the chicks fly off before the floods come again."

He looked at me and smiled. "See how wonderous are all creatures of God's world? From the mighty lion down to the most fragile egg…there is beauty in all of them."

I stared down at the tiny egg that was no bigger than my thumb. It had not occurred to me that this delicate polished bead held a kernel of life within it. Someday that shell would break, and a winged wonder would burst out of it.

"Did God make this egg too?" I asked.

"As surely as He made you and I."

His answer made me ache inside; I knew that meant I must have had a father and a mother. And if He created me then He must have put my egg inside my mother's womb. But where was she? Who was she?

"I wish I knew where I came from."

"You do not know?"

I shook my head.

"I knew you were Potiphar's ward," he said slowly. "But I thought perhaps your parents were of his family or comrades. I though they must have passed away when you were small from some accident or illness before you lived here."

"No, no. I never knew my parents." And I told him all about the caravan and the wool traders and Neith. He frowned a bit when I spoke of Neith but nodded respectfully, though I noticed a sharp flicker in his eyes. I asked him to speak his mind.

"Nothing! It is….nothing." But he could not hide the light in his face from me.

"Do you know of my parents? My people?" I urged him. "Tell me, Joseph!"

"There is nothing to tell, Asenath. I know as little as you about such things. I can only contemplate and ponder."

"You lie, you lie," I protested in frustration.

"Asenath, I would not speak without proof," he said tenderly. "All I have is a theory—nothing more. I do not want to tell you falsehoods or share visions of dreams that have yet to unfold. A falsehood is a weak foundation; it breaks within a night. The truth may take years to unfold but it is an everlasting cornerstone."

Here was a new lesson for me: I could have a lie right away or the truth later on. I was so impatient, so reckless, that I had to learn what it was to be still and wait for things to unfold. For I would shame myself further if I continued to live in haste.

"Which would you prefer, Asenath? A lie or the truth?"

"I…." My voice faltered as I attempted to sort this out. "I wish I had the patience to seek the truth."

Joseph nodded to me with approval. Again, I saw the curtain lift from his face. He spoke to me as a fellow and a scholar rather than an outsider.

"If you seek it, I believe that you will find it."

"Then you believe I will find the truth about my parents someday?"

"Yes, Asenath. I believe you will find the truth when God deems it the right time."

"When will I know it is the right time?"

"You will," he assured me.

Here he nodded. That did give me comfort.

"Joseph, do you know always know what it is the right time for things to happen to you?"

He shook his head. "There is so much I thought I used to know. But now, looking back, I realize it was futile to try and make plans of my own. It is better for me to trust in my God, for He is steering my path for me."

Joseph gazed back down at the nest and recited, "And God said, let the waters teem with living creatures, and fowl that fly about out earth across the expanse of the heavens. And there was evening and there was morning…"

"The fifth day," I responded, remembering his words.

When he gazed at me and smiled with approval, I knew that all was well in our world. And God was pleased with us.

Joseph stood up again and raised his hands above his head. "Praise God!" he suddenly shouted aloud in delight. "Out here, no one else can hear us or stop us. Here, beneath His heavens and above His earth, I can praise Him at last."

"Hallelujah!" Joseph cried with joy. A flock of cranes burst out of the reeds and flapped their wings, beating and soaring around us. Joseph jumped around in circles dancing for joy, a sight I had never seen him do thus far. He had always been so prudent and shy around the home and now he was bursting with energy from every limb of his body. I wished to also partake of his happiness and so I joined him in dancing, letting my arms and legs fling and flair to their liking. The cranes continued to swirl above our heads as we leaped and hopped among the reeds, basking in each other's joy and the glory of this day.

"Hallelujah!" he repeated. "Praise the Maker, for His good is upon all things. Let the angels praise Him, the moon and the stars too. Let young men and maidens praise Him, old men together with youths! Hallelujah!"

"Hallelujah!" I also declared, sharing in Joseph's celebration. Over and over again he would praise God and I would echo, our lively leaping and jumping continuing even as the sun began to fade in the sky.

By the time we had ended our celebration and returned to the house, we were fatigued yet happy as we had never been. My legs were covered in scrapes from brushing against the sharp reeds and also Joseph had nicks all over his bare chest. He was breathing fast, his brow and shoulders beaded with sweat, yet he looked pleased as ever.

"We had best go in through the side entrance," he whispered to me. "I may have Potiphar's approval, but Weret would not forgive me if she saw you like this."

"No," I agreed, stifling a laugh. We managed to walk with lightened steps around the back entrance but were faced with Zulekia when we had to enter the great hall. She had one hand poised in air and looked up when we came in. She had been arranging flowers and looked as fine and fresh as one in her tinted gown and a short wig adorned with beads.

Joseph and I had tousled hair, rumpled clothes, and bits of grass stuck to our faces and arms. It was fortunate Potiphar was not present, but I loathed to think what Zulekia would do next.

Miraculously, she did not seem angry. She merely widened her eyes as she glanced briefly at me, then let her eyes slide over to Joseph.

"I, I thought some fresh air and exercise would continue to assist Asenath in her recovery," he explained.

I had to bite the inside of my cheek not to start laughing again.

"I see." Zulekia kept starring at Joseph. Her gaze did not move but her voice was directed towards me.

"Asenath, go upstairs and have Weret and the others prepare a bath for you."

Her voice was cool and even as the surface of a pond at night. I sighed in relief; there would be no punishment tonight.

"Yes, my lady." I threw Joseph one last look of satisfaction, then quietly exited the room. I could still hear her talking to Joseph even as I was in the corridor. And what I heard made me stop in my place.

"Careful, Joseph. You must not cut yourself on those sharp reeds."

"I am all right, my lady."

"Let me see you closer. Come here. You may be injured—"

"I am well. I must go now."

His voice had grown stilted in her presence. But Zulekia's tone had become so soft and silken, I wondered how it could rasp upon my hears.