Sheik

by Mason, Connie

  A wicked smile turned up the corners of his sensuous lips. “I told you you’d enjoy it.” Carefully he removed both silver balls and slipped them back into their pouch.

  Zara breathed a sigh of relief. Any more pleasure and she would die from it. “May I return to my chamber?” she asked hopefully.

  “The night is still young and I can’t bear to part with you. Rest, love. Then we will eat and go where the night takes us.”

  Where the night took them was beyond anything Zara had ever dreamed or imagined. The silver balls remained in their pouch, but Jamal found other ways to give and receive pleasure.

  Though the precise words were never spoken, Zara felt confident of Jamal’s intense feelings for her. It was the kind of power she had wanted. Intuition told her that she would never find a better time to plan her escape, that Jamal’s trust was as strong as it would ever be. Tomorrow she would ask Jamal’s permission to visit the village.

  Zara awoke early the following morning. Jamal was still sleeping soundly beside her as she rose and took advantage of his bathing room. When she returned, Jamal was sitting up in bed waiting for her.

  “I missed you.”

  “I’m here, my lord.”

  “Looking lovelier than the moon and the stars. If I didn’t have to go to Meknes today I would keep you in my bed and make love to you the rest of the day.”

  “Meknes?” Fear lanced through her. “Does your visit have anything to do with my father?”

  “Not this time, sweet vixen. The sultan is pleased that the raids upon his caravans have ceased. To my knowledge he has not learned that Youssef is my prisoner. He thinks the attacks have ceased because Youssef fears you’ll be harmed if he continues them. My visit concerns my pirate ship. Ishmail is greedy for more plunder and wants me to return to pirating.”

  “How long will you be gone?”

  Jamal looked pleased. “Will you miss me?”

  Zara shrugged.

  “I shall return by nightfall. Hammet has orders to bring you to my chamber when I return.”

  “Will you grant me a favor, Jamal?”

  Jamal sent her a brilliant smile. “Since you pleased me so well last night, I am in an expansive mood. What is it you wish, Zara?”

  “I wish to visit the village. I’ve been cooped up in your palace too long. I’m bored. I’m accustomed to vigorous exercise in the sun and the wind.”

  Jamal’s dark brows rose. “Isn’t what we’ve been doing nightly exercise enough? Perhaps I’ll request your presence in my bed in the afternoons as well as the nights. Will that satisfy your craving for exercise?”

  Zara retained her temper through sheer grit. Did Jamal think of nothing but coupling? “That’s not what I meant and you know it.”

  “Tell me what you need and I’ll buy it for you,” Jamal said, skirting the issue. “Silks, satins, jewels? Do you like rubies?”

  “I want to walk to the village and visit the souk myself. Send a guard along, if you wish, but do not deny me the pleasure of walking through the souk.” If her plan to free her father was to work, she needed the freedom to seek help in the village.

  Jamal wavered uncertainly. Since Zara had submitted to him she had changed. She seemed more at peace with her captivity. Though she hadn’t agreed to become his wife, she hadn’t refused outright. His own feelings were contradictory and confusing. Asking Zara to marry him had shocked even himself. The offer had been rash, but he couldn’t bring himself to regret it. When had he become so obsessed with Zara? he wondered. Did he trust her enough to allow her more freedom?

  “Please, Jamal,” Zara said, hating the way he made her beg for so small a privilege. “Your concubines are allowed to go where they please.”

  “They are not slaves,” Jamal reminded her.

  Green fire ignited in the centers of Zara’s eyes. Being reminded of her lowly station was a stunning blow to her pride. She bit her bottom lip to keep from venting her spleen. Yet anger wasn’t the only emotion warring within her. She had feelings for Jamal she didn’t dare explore. When she was in his arms, experiencing the enchantment of his unique loving, she felt as if she belonged there.

  Jamal wasn’t cruel like the sultan. He didn’t treat his women badly. As his slave she had suffered nothing but the erotic pleasure of his loving. And in a moment of weakness he had asked her to marry him. Which, of course, was out of the question. It was important that she banish all tenderness for the handsome sheik from her mind and heart and concentrate on escape. Her father’s life depended on her ability to remain unmoved by Jamal’s sensual assault. She could not allow herself to fall in love with him. All she wanted from Jamal was his trust.

  “Are you going to refuse my request?” Zara asked shortly.

  “I’m going to humor you. You may visit the souk. Haroun will assign two men-at-arms to guard you. Ask Hammet for a djellaba and veil your face well.”

  Elated, Zara bowed her head in acquiescence to Jamal’s conditions. “Thank you, my lord. If it pleases you, I will visit my father now.”

  Jamal frowned. He was surprised that word hadn’t already reached the sultan concerning Youssef’s presence at Paradise. Soon he must place Youssef into Ishmail’s keeping whether Zara liked it or not.

  “Aye, visit your father. I must prepare for my journey to Meknes. But first—”

  Pulling her down beside him on the bed, he rolled her beneath him, spread her legs and thrust inside her. He smiled, pleased to find her as ready for him as he was for her. She was moist and soft and yielded sweetly to the deep penetration of his rock-hard erection. If he lived to be one hundred he’d never understand his consuming need for Zara. But right now he didn’t care. His thoughts were focused entirely on the woman beneath him and giving her pleasure.

  Zara moved with Jamal, her loins thrusting up against him, wanting, needing everything he could give her. She’d been surprised to find her body ready to receive him even though she’d been given no warning of his intention. There was no dryness, no pain at his abrupt entrance. Only pleasure. Rocked by jolts of ecstasy spiraling through her, she wondered how she would live the rest of her life without Jamal.

  Much later, after they were both dressed and ready to leave, Jamal opened a small casket sitting on a lacquered chest and removed a large brass key. He called Hammet, who appeared instantly, handed him the key and told him to escort Zara to her father. It wasn’t the first time Zara had seen Jamal remove or replace the key in the casket, but she was happy to learn that it was still kept there.

  Zara was shocked by Youssef’s appearance. He was pale and wan and looked as if he’d lost considerable weight. He was a man accustomed to living with the elements, racing his camel over mountains and through valleys with the sun and wind in his face. If she didn’t free him soon, she feared he would waste away in his dark prison, deprived of sunshine and fresh air.

  “Are you well, daughter?” Youssef asked with concern. He hated the thought of Zara being used by Jamal. He knew she had offered herself to the sheik but he could not like it. If Jamal wanted her, he should marry her. She had been an innocent until Jamal violated her.

  “I am well, Father. We must speak quietly; Hammet waits outside the door. I think I’ve finally gained Jamal’s trust. He’s give me permission to visit the souk. I have a plan, Father. Remember the man who came to me in the stables and told me you were coming to rescue me?”

  Youssef nodded. “His name is Rachid. He’s a camel trader who spies for me in the village.”

  “My plan depends on Rachid’s willingness to help us.”

  “The danger to you is too great. Should Jamal learn of your betrayal, he will punish you. I hear his temper is fearsome when roused to anger. ’Tis said he’s fair and just until he’s crossed. I fear for you, daughter.”

  “I can handle Jamal,” Zara said with more bravado than she felt. “Where can I find Rachid?”

  “You’ll find him in the village, Zara. He is the only camel trader in the souk who sells and trades r
acing camels. Quickly, tell me your plan.”

  When Zara left her father a short time later, she was more determined than ever to free him. He was barely existing in Jamal’s foul prison. With firm resolve she prepared for her walk to the village. Hammet provided her with a black djellaba, which she donned over her caftan, fastening the veil over the lower part of her face so nothing but her eyes showed. Jamal had already left for Meknes with Haroun, but two men-at-arms were waiting for her when Hammet escorted her to the gate. They were given a bag of coins to pay for Zara’s purchases.

  The walk to the village was hot and dusty, but Zara relished each step, for it took her closer to freedom.

  The souk was crowded with people, some haggling over prices, some trading and others hawking their wares. Her passage warranted only a passing glance, for the villagers were accustomed to seeing Sheik Jamal’s concubines strolling though the souk with their guards in attendance. Zara made a great show of examining merchandise for sale and purchasing geegaws she had no use for. When she finally approached the open grassy area where the camel traders did their business, her gaze settled on the man buying and selling racing camels. It had to be Rachid.

  “I would like to speak with the camel trader,” Zara told her vigilant guards. “Racing camels are of great interest to me. My people find them perfect for their needs and ride them exclusively.”

  The guards exchanged glances. They saw no harm in Zara’s speaking with vendors since no orders had been issued disallowing it. Still, they hesitated.

  “Please,” Zara said prettily. “I wish only to discuss his animals. They are sleek and look swift of foot, do they not?”

  “I prefer horses,” the first guard grumbled.

  “They are mean-spirited animals,” the second guard added. “Go then, speak to him if you must, but do not linger.”

  Bouyed by her success, Zara approached the small, bearded camel trader. She introduced herself quickly. “I am Zara, daughter of Youssef. Are you Rachid?” The man nodded. “Listen carefully, for I have little time,” Zara continued. “Pretend we are discussing your camels.”

  Rashid nodded his understanding. “How is your father? I am sorry things worked out as they did. What can I do to help?”

  “I need a sleeping draught. Something strong but not so strong as to kill. Can you get it for me? And if so, how soon?”

  Rachid pretended interest in the camel nearest to him. “It is possible for me to obtain what you need.” He pulled at his beard. “Give me an hour. Continue your stroll through the souk. I will find you.”

  Zara thanked him and left, aware that the guards were watching her intently. She didn’t want to arouse suspicion when she was so close to her goal. She spent a long time browsing through vendor stalls, purchasing small items, inspecting and rejecting others and lingering over an array of vibrant silks. After a while she began to despair that Rachid had failed to obtain what she needed. Then she felt a jolt and something was thrust into her hand. Her palm curled around a small packet and she quickly thrust it into her pocket. When she looked around she saw no one but the usual crowd of people going about their business.

  Zara left the souk soon afterward. Her guards seemed relieved as they escorted her back to the harem. She thanked them for their escort and hurried inside.

  “Did you enjoy your outing?” Nafisa asked as Zara passed through the main room.

  “It was good to be outside the palace walls,” Zara replied, eager to return to her room.

  “You must rest now, Zara. You want to be fresh and rested when you go to Jamal tonight, don’t you?”

  Zara merely nodded as she continued on her way. Once in her chamber she removed the packet from her pocket, shed her djellaba and sank down on the bed. Then she opened her palm, unfolded the packet and studied the powder inside, wondering how much it would take to make Jamal sleep deeply without doing him harm.

  Suddenly Saha appeared in the doorway and Zara closed her fingers over the packet. “I’ve brought you something cool to drink,” Saha said, offering Zara a tall glass of sparkling red liquid. “I know how hot and dusty the souk can be on a day like this.”

  Zara eyed Saha suspiciously. Her act of kindness was unexpected and totally out of character. But if Saha meant to offer friendship, Zara certainly didn’t want to discourage her. “Thank you, Saha, how thoughtful of you. Have you changed your mind about me?”

  Saha gave a delicate shrug. “You seem to please Jamal and it has occurred to me that I should try to be more tolerant of you. I do not wish to incur Jamal’s wrath for treating you badly. One day he will tire of you and turn to his concubines for comfort. So drink, Zara, and consider my offering an act of friendship.”

  “Why not?” Zara replied, aware that she wouldn’t be in the harem long enough to develop a friendship with Saha even if she was inclined to do so. Saha was the last person with whom she’d share her plans.

  Zara accepted the glass from Saha and lifted it to her lips. The cool liquid had just barely touched her lips when Nafisa rushed into the room and slapped the glass from Zara’s hands. Zara watched in dismay as the glass shattered on the floor, creating a splash of red against the pale peach-colored carpet.

  “What have you done, Saha?” Nafisa cried, rounding on the frightened concubine, who was cowering in a corner. “Jamal will kill you for this.”

  Zara was slow to react. When it finally dawned on her what Saha had tried to do to her, she began shaking.

  “Please, Nafisa,” Saha begged, “do not tell Jamal. No harm was done.”

  “No harm?” Nafisa cried. “You tried to poison Zara. What if I hadn’t heard Amar and Leila talking about your plans? What if I hadn’t arrived in time to prevent such a tragedy? Jamal must be told.”

  “You meant to poison me!” Zara cried, finally finding her voice. “Why can’t you realize I’m no threat to you?”

  “Jamal asked you to marry him,” Saha charged.

  The breath caught in Zara’s throat. “How did you know?”

  “Everyone knows,” Saha claimed. “There are no secrets here.”

  “Get out!” Zara ordered. “The sight of you sickens me.”

  Realizing the gravity of her sin, Saha felt real fear. “Will you tell Jamal?”

  “I will tell him,” Nafisa said, answering for Zara. “Now get out of here. Go to your chamber and await word from Jamal.”

  Turning on her heel, Saha fled, sobbing loudly.

  “What will happen to her?” Zara wondered.

  “That’s for Jamal to decide. What she tried to do cannot be dismissed.”

  Zara didn’t want to feel compassion for the misguided concubine but she couldn’t help it. Since Zara’s arrival at Paradise, Jamal had all but ignored his women.

  “Fear not, Zara, I will see that nothing like this happens again.”

  Exhausted from her trip to the village and lack of sleep the previous night, Zara decided a nap was in order. She hid the packet containing the sleeping powder beneath her mattress, then lay down and drifted off to sleep. Hours later she was awakened by the sound of angry voices and loud wailing. Within moments Jamal burst into her chamber.

  “Are you all right? Nafisa sent word to me the moment I arrived home.” Dropping down beside her, he dragged her into his arms and hugged her tightly. “How dare Saha try to poison you! I’ll never let you out of my sight again.”

  “I’m fine, Jamal, truly. Nafisa arrived in time to prevent me from drinking the poison.”

  “I shudder to think what would have happened if Nafisa hadn’t learned of Saha’s plan to do away with you.” He grasped her hand. “Come with me.”

  She followed him into the main room where Saha, Amar and Leila huddled together on a couch, sobbing quietly. One look at Jamal’s stern visage sent them into a fresh paroxysm of tears.

  “Quiet!” Jamal ordered harshly. “What you have done is wrong and must be punished. Since Saha is the perpetrator, she will be dealt with first.” He crooked a finger at Saha. “C
ome with me.” He strode through the harem, taking both Zara and Saha with him.

  Once beyond the harem doors, Zara noted with surprise that Haroun awaited them. Haroun had eyes for no one but Saha. His lust for the beautiful concubine was evidenced by the burning look he bestowed on her.

  “What are you going to do to me?” Saha asked fearfully. “I could not bear being whipped, my lord. And the bastinado would kill me. Forgive me, Jamal, I beg you.”

  “I can’t forgive you, Saha, but neither can I inflict pain upon a woman. Though you deserve to be beaten, it will not be by my hand.”

  Hope flared in Saha’s eyes, but Jamal was quick to extinguish it. “I am giving you to Haroun. May Allah have pity on him.”

  Haroun looked thunderstruck. Jamal’s generosity humbled him. He had long lusted after Lady Saha. He knew what Saha had tried to do to Zara, but still he wanted her. He was strong. He would tame Saha and keep her in line. He would see to it that she never bothered Jamal or Zara again.

  “I am truly grateful, my lord,” Haroun said, finally finding his voice. “You will not regret your generosity.”

  “So be it,” Jamal said. “Take her away; the sight of her sickens me. Keep her in the village, tie her to the bed, beat her if you wish, but keep her out of my sight. Choose two worthy men from among my men-at-arms and I will present Amar and Leila to them.”

  Afraid that Jamal would change his mind, Haroun sent Saha for her djellaba. When she returned, he literally dragged her away. Jamal watched them go without visible regret.

  “All three, Jamal?” Zara asked, stunned by his swift and decisive justice. “You will give away all three of your women?”

  Jamal sent her a smoldering look that spoke eloquently of his desire. “I have said it before and I will say it again, Zara. I need no other woman but you.”

  Chapter Ten

  A week had passed since Zara’s first visit to the village. Just today she had returned to the souk, with Jamal’s permission, and arranged with Rachid to have racing camels waiting at the back gate during the darkest hours of night. Zara had discovered the gate during her explorations and learned that it was little used and normally left unguarded except for one sentry, who made rounds every hour or so.