CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE — A SERIALIZED NOVEL
Pride and Audacity — Part 19
A stranger — a secret agreement — a changed destiny
“He was the last man on earth she wanted, but she was the only woman on earth he’d have…From the skyscrapers of New York City to the ancient sands of Ahalamin, two untamed hearts war for supremacy…”
The roar of the helicopter’s engine compounded the pain throbbing across Victoria’s forehead. Coupled with Rashid’s seething displeasure and suffocating proximity, the trip was quickly spiraling into a nightmare.
She wanted to scream at him like a harridan but he hadn’t yet addressed her directly. The rat knew that by not speaking to her, he’d effectively cut off her avenue of communicating in a public situation. She could force a conversation, but breaking more of his rules wasn’t going to get him to listen to her arguments.
If she didn’t get back in her world soon she would go crazy. Nothing about herself was working right anymore: her heart, her mind — nothing. She hated the desperation growing within and hated the man who’d stormed and ravaged her security. Somehow, in the space of a few days, he’d dismantled what she’d spent the major portion of her life building.
“Princess,” said Califar, “We are fast approaching the palace. In a moment, you will have a good view of your new home. Your husband’s primary residence is called The Sand Palace.”
She glanced at Rashid and found him watching her. In defiance, she transferred the full impact of her personality upon Califar. Raising her eyes on a level with his, she favored him with a beaming smile. One she hoped rivaled the radiance of the sun-drenched morning.
“You are very considerate to offer me this information. Others, sad to say, do not possess your degree of kindness.” She shot a meaningful glare toward Rashid and then returned her attention to his friend. “How did this place come to have such an unusual name?”
“Victoria,” interjected Rashid. “You will show proper respect by lowering your eyes.”
“My lord, the princess means no offense. I would be pleased if you would allow her to assume less formal manners in my presence.”
Rashid was quiet for a tense moment and then relented. “If you wish.”
Califar turned to Rashid. “Would you like to answer the princess’ questions, or shall I?”
“You seem to be enjoying the task of a tour guide; do as you please.”
Victoria enjoyed the hint of jealousy smoldering in her husband’s reply. She leaned a little in Califar’s direction as he spoke.
“The original palace compound is over six hundred years old and was built around a large oasis five miles from the city of JaNar. The palace served as a royal residence and fortification for the sultan of that time. The outer walls are coming into view now.”
Victoria looked in the direction Califar indicated. A small walled city appeared. Inside the massive outer wall was one large and four or five medium-sized buildings. A good-sized lake surrounded by lush vegetation and several smaller pools and gardens filled the rest of the area. The Sand Palace was a fitting name, as it sat alone surrounded by miles of desert. The one modern addition was the paved highway leading to a gleaming, carved bronze gate, the only opening in the outer wall.
“What are all the buildings used for?”
“The larger one is your home. The smaller one next to it is my residence. The building closest to the Tiger Gate is the Royal Library. Prince Rashid has opened this to his people. You may enjoy searching through its many old and rare books. The other buildings house apartments for the governmental, medical, technical, and clerical staff, as well as offices.”
“It’s awesome, just like a small city. There must be a large number of people living inside the complex.”
“Yes, but the palace area is completely private and the security measures, though complex, are not invasive.”
“Tighten your restraint, Victoria. Our pilot is landing,” growled Rashid.
She did as he asked and returned her attention to Califar. “Thank you for your kindness, Califar. I hope one day soon you will find time to take me on a tour of the library.”
“Informality does not encompass such a request,” Rashid said contemptuously. “Married women are never escorted by men who are not of their family.”
“Well, excuse me,” she drew out the short sentence in contempt and elevated her chin another inch. “Where I come from, men are not so insecure they find it necessary to police every movement of their wives, or so needy they exclude every other male from her association.”
“And the women of your world are in constant threat of battering, exploitation, and rape. A situation you will not find here, because the men of this country control and protect what belongs to them.”
“Now just a minute…” Victoria began.
“Excuse me, but we are on the ground. Does anyone wish to depart?” asked Califar.
In her anger, she’d forgotten about Califar who’d directed his question to Rashid. By the smoldering look on Rashid’s face, he didn’t appreciate the shameless grin that accompanied Califar’s inquiry. She geared for intervention on behalf of her ally, but relaxed when she realized Califar took no exception to Rashid’s militant manner. If she knew him better, she would almost think he was enjoying himself at Rashid’s expense, which would make him either very brave or very stupid.
Rashid unlatched his safety harness and prepared to depart. Ignoring her completely, he stepped past her to exit the helicopter. His swift movement caused his robe to billow and drag across her face for several suffocating seconds. She knew he was not aware of her discomfort; nevertheless, he’d just added another layer of insult to injury.
He stepped away from the rotors and stopped. This time, he didn’t turn back to check her progress, but she had been through this routine before. In his present mood, if she thwarted his plans, he would probably order her shot. She unfastened her harness and, with haughty finesse, stepped from the helicopter. There would be a better, less public place to finish this escalating battle of wills.
She followed behind the two men as they walked from the helipad toward an impressive structure. Their path wound through gardens of olive trees, cypress, and palms. The walkway, bejeweled by the intense coloration of blooming roses, lilies, and oleanders, was every bit as magical as Dorothy’s yellow brick road.
Fascination slowed her step as she approached a large terrace. Its polished marble flooring resembled a large stretch of shimmering water. Throughout, immense cages of exotic birds sat among potted lemon and fig trees. A profusion of flowers hung in suspended groupings, and the entrancing sound of cascading water lent music to the scene. Carved marble pillars and Moorish arches framed the setting like a priceless painting.
“Does the Water Terrace please you, Princess?” questioned Califar.
Victoria, transfixed by the paradisaical beauty, had completely forgotten about the two men. “The exquisiteness defies description. I’m speechless.”
Rashid turned and stared at her with a stony expression. “If I had known what power my home would exert over you, I would have brought you here earlier. Now please keep up. I have important people waiting to see me.”
Her name was obviously not on that particular list. Before she could think of an adequate put-down, he’d turned his back and disappeared through a large arched entryway. With no other option, she followed and found him standing just inside the opening with a woman by his side, her robe and head covering doing nothing to hide her stunning beauty.
“Victoria, this is Najah. She will take you to our private quarters and see to your needs. Her English is excellent. You will have no problem communicating your desires. I will join you when I have completed some necessary business. You may go.”
She tightened her lips with suppressed indignation. How dare he dismiss her as if she were a disobedient child banished to her room. Especially, in front of the woman who stood with such dignity by his side. A woman far too beautiful and close to her husband for Victoria’s liking.
She shot Rashid a withering look and followed Najah from the reception hall, only allowing herself a brief glance at its domed ceiling where frescoes depicting gardens and fountains emerged. Carved cedar paneling ornamented with gold, lapis lazuli and mother of pearl covered the walls. Traversing another large terrace, they entered a small exquisitely designed garden. A trickling watercourse meandered through formal groupings of myrtle and fruit trees. The seating dispersed throughout took full advantage of the garden’s tranquility, color, and exotic fragrances.
“This area is known as the Princess Garden,” said Najah. “It separates the Prince’s private residence from the public areas of the palace. Formerly, this whole section housed the women’s quarters or harem. Prince Rashid’s father converted its use after his marriage.”
“Do you mean Rashid’s father only had one wife?”
“Yes.”
“What about Rashid’s grandfather?”
“I believe Prince Mustafa possessed three wives and several concubines.”
That explained a lot. Her pigheaded husband came from a long line of men who thought of women as ornaments, much like the caged birds on the Water Terrace.
“Through these arches, you will find two lounges, a food preparation and dining area, and several sleeping and bath areas as well.” As she talked, Najah led her into an elegant lounge which surprised Victoria completely. After being surrounded with round beds, satin walls, and gold trim, the creamy earth tones and cosmopolitan furnishing of this room made her feel like she were in her own New York apartment.
“These rooms have recently been redecorated especially for your pleasure. Prince Davar has arranged a wardrobe along with accessories, jewelry, and personal items for you as well. You will find everything arranged in your dressing room. A light luncheon has been prepared and is waiting for you in the dining area. To facilitate your good health, your husband suggested you might find a bath followed by a rest period most beneficial.”
Victoria tightened her jaw but managed a civil response. “You’ve been most helpful.”
As for Rashid, he could jump in the nearest pool. She would never make another decision if he had his way.
“Is there anything else you desire, Princess?”
“Yes. Is there a telephone in this apartment?”
“They are located both in the sleeping area and here in the lounge on the desk by the terrace.”
“Thank you. I don’t think I’ll require anything else right now.”
“My cellular number is on the list next to the telephone. It is my great honor to serve you, Princess.” Najah bowed, backed up several steps, and then turned and disappeared through the archway.
Victoria was more uncertain than ever. She could not have written herself into a setting more alien than this. Not wanting to sit down to a cozy lunch with Rashid, she went in search of and located, an elegant dining room whose sideboards overflowed with sumptuous platters of food. There was enough for her and twenty absent guests. She chose pita bread stuffed with black beans and spices, salad, and mashed eggplant mixed with tomato and pine nuts, a delightfully strange but tasteful combination. When she’d finished, she poured another cup of mint tea and ventured back to the garden.
Victoria took her time strolling through the garden area while admiring the complicated mosaics, tile work, and fountains. A person would need a lifetime to study and appreciate all the beauty contained in this diverse complex. An opportunity she would have if she didn’t immediately find a means of escape. Setting her cup on the marble bench, she went in search of a telephone.
Amazingly, she connected immediately with a palace operator who spoke perfect English. She gave her Jessica’s number.
“Hello,” Jessica answered.
“Jessica, it’s me, Victoria.”
“Oh! My gosh! I’ve been out of my mind with worry. Are you okay? Where are you? Has anyone hurt you? I tried to come after you but the Ahalamin government denied me a visa. I’m sure that repulsive Cali person is responsible. I finally called my brother, you know, the one with the FBI. I just didn’t know how else to help you. I’m so sorry.”
“Jessica, slow down,” said Victoria.
“Okay. But are you all right?”
“Yes, I’m safe and unharmed. I could not call before because we were in a desert camp. We arrived at the palace today.”
“Camp! Victoria, are you sure you’re okay? He’s not abusing you or planning to sell you, is he? I’ve heard of those things.”
“Jessica, please calm down. I’m safe in Rashid’s palace outside the city of JaNar. I need you to contact the American Embassy for me.”
“My brother said he was going to call them first. Have you not heard from them?”
“Not yet. But I just arrived, so they may contact me soon.”
“Oh! I almost forgot. I’ve got to tell you about Aaron.”
“Aaron who?” asked Victoria hesitantly.
“Your little Aaron, of course. Who else would I mean?”
“How do you know about Aaron?”
“A Miss Towers has been franticly trying to find you. Your secretary gave her my number. How could you not tell me about those adorable kids?”
“I’ll explain later. Now tell me about Aaron.”
“You’ve got to get home right away. You’ve just got to,” Jessica pleaded.
The panic in Jessica’s voice struck terror in Victoria’s heart. “Jessica, what’s wrong!”
“He’s been in the hospital for over a week with some kind of influenza. You must come home. I’m doing what I can, but he needs you. I sent faxes to the palace; at least I hope they went there. My brother got the number for me. I didn’t know any other way to contact you. I hope I didn’t make things worse for you.”
“You did fine. I’ll be home soon. Are the girls all right?”
“Yes, just worried about Aaron and missing you.”
“Tell Aaron I’m coming. Please, stay with him until I get there. You will hear from me in a few hours.” Victoria’s hand shook as she replaced the receiver.
Panic and fear knotted her insides. Somehow, she must make Rashid listen to her. As if she had conjured him up, he walked through the archway, divesting himself of his robe and headpiece as he advanced. Placing some papers on the table beside her, he gave her a curt nod and headed for the kitchen. She followed him.
“I hope you’ve found the accommodations comfortable,” he said. Have you eaten?”
“Yes, to both your questions. Now, could you please listen to me, Rashid? I need to get out of here.”
“I am tired, hungry, and not at all pleased, Victoria,” he replied in a deceptive monotone.
“I’ve just called Jessica, and there’s an urgent situation I must get home to deal with.”
“I talked to your father earlier. He did not indicate there were any problems.”
“My father doesn’t know everything, and besides, he has nothing to do with this!” Victoria’s voice rose considerably with her intense need to make him understand.
“You would do well to remember to whom you speak and adjust your tone,” he said, turning his back on her as he lifted a lid on one of the food platters.
She wanted to scream louder but lowered her voice instead. “Look, Rashid. This is important. I need my passport and a flight home.”
“No.”
She wanted to wrap her hands around his stiff neck and choke him. Tucking them behind her back, she controlled the urge to throw something at his hard head. She knew him well enough to know he wouldn’t respond to an aggressive female.
“I need to go. Someone I care about very deeply is ill. I need to go home and help.”
Rashid stopped filling his plate and studied her gravely. “If you will give me the person’s name and circumstances, I will have the best available assistance there immediately.”
“I need to go myself.”
“In that case, I will settle my responsibilities as quickly as possible and take you. Who is in trouble? What are their needs?”
“Someone I love very much. They’re in the hospital and they need me personally. I can’t wait for you. I must go to them now.”
“Why are you being evasive? Is there something you do not wish for me to know?”
Victoria wished she could tell him the truth but she was afraid. He held legal status as her husband, not to mention the unlimited power and authority his position afforded him. He could interfere, or even worse, sever her connection with the children. She couldn’t take that chance.
Rashid exhaled a long, impatient breath and laid down his half-filled plate. “If you will not be honest with me, then this conversation is over. You will not be leaving now or later.”
She stared at his rigid back as he walked to the lounge, picked up the papers he’d left on the table, and sat down to read them. Not knowing what else to do, she walked through the lounge and stepped onto the tiled patio. Shaking with fury, she fully realized what it meant to come up against an immovable object. Weakening his resolve would take a nuclear device. She didn’t even have a firecracker.
“What is the meaning of this?”
She hadn’t heard his approach. Spinning around, she found him directly behind her, his face a thundercloud as he shoved several crushed pieces of paper in front of her.
“Who is this Aaron?” he spat acidly. “Why does he presume to command your presence?”
She took the papers from his hand. Scanning the fax, her heart sank. You must come. Aaron will not be consoled. He’s been deeply distraught since you left and demands you return. His condition worsens. He loves you. You must come home.
Rashid’s accusing glare impaled her; his eyes spitting black fire at her. A hopeless silence hung like the blade of a guillotine. She knew this static instant in time would be the defining moment in her life. She needed to make a decision and accept the consequences.
“Aaron is…Aaron is my heart, the one I want to be with. I belonged to him first. You have no right to hold me against my will. No right to steal what belongs to someone else.”
His fingers bit into her shoulders as he lifted her. Then he shook her like a rag doll, her toes scraping the floor. “You dare to throw this in my face. You gave yourself to me, joined your soul with mine, and now you dare to tell me our joining meant nothing?”
The pain in his voice pulled at her, creating in her heart a need to erase the bewildered shock darkening his eyes. She hated the guilt burdening her conscience and the man who forced it on her. In a cauldron of despair and disgust, she threw her words at him like daggers.
“You forced me! It meant nothing because you forced me!”
Steely hands released her shoulders and wrapped around her throat, pushing her head up. “I could kill you for those words. You were never forced! I took what you gave. You welcomed the taking. You begged for it.”
Victoria reeled from the truth of his words. In a pain-induced rage, she held one desire…to cut the ground from underneath him…to break him…to be free. “I did what I had to do! What defense did I have? What did you expect me to do? Just because you married me didn’t give you the right to take what wasn’t yours. They put men like you in jail where I come from.”
He stared at her in unnerving silence, as if his brain could not process her words. Her stomach twisted in hysterical agony. The pain she was inflicting was obvious, but she couldn’t stop. “You forced me! You’re no better than a rapist.”
The shock of her words reeled his head backward as effectively as if she had struck him a physical blow. The same blow slammed into her as a splinter of sanity returned. She’d just perverted the most beautiful moment in her life and, in the process, brought the man she loved to his knees. His lips moved with no sound. A mask of revulsion covered his face, and in his beautiful eyes laid the shattered pieces of a proud heart.
Misery turned to physical agony as it seared through her body. She wanted to close her eyes and shut out the evidence of her cruelty, but she couldn’t.
Rashid’s shoulders slumped. His desperate gaze searched her lips as if expecting them to take back her unspeakable words. In wretchedness, she watched the fire in his eyes die, the ebony brilliance turning to a cold black emptiness. His hands jerked from her throat as he spun on his heels and retreated to the far side of the room. His chest rose and fell with his labored breaths. Her heart bled for him…for both of them.
Much too late, the purity of hindsight tore through her. She had just made the biggest mistake of her life. She tried to speak but her locked throat wouldn’t open. He continued to stand rigid and still, only his hands moved as he clenched and unclenched the fists hanging at his side. Finally, she watched him take a deep breath as if pulling air from the deepest part of the earth. Without looking in her direction, he walked to the side table and lifted the telephone. In what seemed only a heartbeat, Califar stepped through the entrance, his eyes darting quickly from her to Rashid.
“You sent for me, my lord?”
“Yes.” Rashid, with his back to both her and Califar, spoke as if life or death hung on the balance of his words. “The princess will be returning to New York — today. You will accompany her and see she arrives safely.”
Then he turned and walked toward her. Never, at his most arrogant and angry moments, had he looked at her with such coldness. His lashes glistened with moisture and a lone tear clung stubbornly to his cheek.
Her life force slowly and irretrievably drained away, leaving her weak and empty. “Rashid, please let me explain. I didn’t mean…”
“Silence.” He cut her off with a slash of his hand. His unblinking glare held her in place as he gave one more command to Califar. “On your return, you will inform the Ministry of Customs that my wife’s travel permit is canceled; she is never again to enter Ahalamin. Is this understood?”
“Y…yes, my lord,” stuttered Califar, his voice strangled.
Rashid’s emotionless eyes touched every inch of her as if he were deleting her from his memory, pixel by pixel. The single tear on his cheek took a suicidal plunge and she watched as it spattered on the polished tile beneath her feet. He backed up two steps and, with a regal nod of his head, bowed to her. With a voice slightly stronger than a whisper, he destroyed her.
“I have given you what you most desire. It is finished.” Turning, he walked through the arched doorway, giving her back the control she’d craved.
With her own request, he’d cut away her heart. Gasping, she clutched her stomach with one hand and reached toward his retreating figure with the other.
To be continued…
If you’re enjoying Victoria and Rashid’s story, please consider recommending it to your friends and sharing it on social media. ~ I thank you, Lynda
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