Chapter 6

I awakened to Sheftu softly breathing near my ears just in time to see the beautiful sunrise. I tried to get up, but felt restriction. I looked down to see a pair of tanned arms circled around my waist, fingers intertwined, insuring I would not leave without waking him. His sleeping face was just too handsome and I wanted him to stay in the peaceful sanctuary, knowing that once he's awake, he will start with the act. I knew people of that nature, acting happy to cover up whatever they wanted hidden. I softly caressed his face, but stopped when I felt him fidget and quickly slid upwards towards the headrest and out of his warm embrace. I had a job to do! And I'll be damned if I mess up this one!

I dressed up in my fairly expensive, soft blue gown that was a few shades duller than my eyes, a floral headband, some ornaments, bracelets, earrings, and a simple necklace that reminded me of the one I've had since I was baby, but is still hidden in a small hole in the kitchen in Menfe. I wore it as a replacement until I do get to Menfe and I go to visit a special friend of mine. I put on the leather slippers that feel extremely uncomfortable and went to the kitchen to find something to eat. As I was walking through the garden, I saw Nuri coming my way with a breakfast tray. I offered for her to have breakfast with me, but she refused saying something ridiculous about her being a mere slave. I reprimanded her, reminding her that I, too, was once a slave. So we enjoyed bread and cheese in the garden. I saw some new flowers that Irenamon planted. There were some new Violas and some blue-ish purple Verbena. They were beautiful and the new flowers were centered in the middle of the garden on the rims of the small fountain.

Nuri and I talked some and ate and were content with everything until I felt a pair of arms wrap around my waist from behind me. It scared me, so, without thinking, I elbowed the "attacker" in the gut and turned around in a fighting stance only to find Sheftu on the ground clutching his stomach and groaning in pain. I gasped and bent down to help him, but was instead pulled down into his embrace. I let out a small yelp that was silenced by his kiss.

"You know my Sweet Flower, there is no reason to start interacting with those nobles immediately. Why don't you wait for me to go with you tomorrow?" He added slyly as he laid butterfly kisses from my cheek to my neck. I felt Nuri excuse herself to give us some privacy.

I took a look at his innocent face with a blank look, pushed his chin away, and stood up, knowing what he was getting at. He was trying to convince me to let him come with me to the gathering at the palace so that he can keep any wandering hands and eyes off me. I suspect he is looking out for Tau and Thabit mostly, because they had a surprisingly bad reaction to my first introduction, but are still young and horny. Little did he know, I was aiming for casual conversation with those two to capture their interest and, hopefully, change their minds. Also, to make sure they feel like I'm playing hard to get when I perk their interest, but most importantly I'm going for Gahji's behind. A sure way to seduce a man like him is to act mysterious and innocent at the same time.

This is going to be so much fun.

I could tell Gahji had no interest in the fat and vain noblewoman his family forced him to marry. He looked at the woman like he looked at food. You can choose and get tired easily, but you still need them to survive. He paid attention to females, but his knowledge created a big ego that told him he's better than everyone else. Someone's got to knock him off his pedestal and pique his interest, but still feel honorable and that, of course, will be done by yours truly. My plan was to act all innocent and friendly with Tau and Thabit, but show Gahji a mischievous side to amuse him with my act. I will act arrogant, but childlike and mysterious/cold to confuse him and make him pay attention to me. Like a good riddle.

Hondo, Gahji, Tau, and Thabit are among the group going on the mission. The nobles and royalty will be going back to their homes for the moment until they meet again at the year's mark. Nekonkh will be escorting us to our destinations, but will not go to any of the events we were assigned to since he is known throughout the cities he has visited.

"There's no need to be cautious of me being unfaithful, my Love. You are who I adore most, but this a job I must do." I said cunningly as I glazed my eyes and seemingly dazzle the love of my life who tried hard to compose himself after he let his guard down.

"Bu-"

"Alone." I cut in before he made up any excuses. He's so cute when he's like this. I let my ego sky rocket knowing he's only this childlike in front of me.

I gave him the breakfast tray, kissed him good-bye, and got into the carriage with his help.

Let the games begin.