"Shiek" - читать интересную книгу автора (Connie Mason)

"You're awake." His breath was warm against her ear. "Did you sleep well, sweet vixen?"

"Nay. I do not like your hands on my body." Could he tell she was lying?

He pushed himself to his elbow and turned her to face him. "I like the feel of my hands on you. Your breasts are magnificent. Full and firm but not overly large. Your nipples stand out like ripe cherries, my favorite fruits. I intend to feast on them until I am sated."

Zara pushed his hands away. "We have a bargain to strike," she reminded him. "When can I see my father?"

His eyes narrowed. "Aye, a bargain. Very well, sweet vixen, we shall strike another bargain. State your terms and I'll state mine."

"You want me, my lord. You may have me as a willing participant in your bed until you tire of me. In return, I ask only that you set my father free."

Jamal gave a derisive snort. "Nay, Zara. I cannot free your father and you know it. Here are my terms. You may visit your father daily until he is sent to Meknes. In return, you will come to my bed willingly whenever I want you."

"That is not acceptable, my lord."

"You forget," Jamal reminded her, "that you are my slave. I have no need to bargain with you when I own you body and soul. The reason I do so now is because I prefer not to force you to my bed. But you have made a shambles of my patience. You have no rights, sweet vixen. Accept my terms or your father will suffer the consequences."

Zara bit the soft underside of her lip, her mind working furiously. Had she driven Jamal too far? Most men would not have put up with her defiance. They would have bedded her whether she wished it or not.

"You said I might visit my father while he is here."

"That is true."

"Then grant me one small boon. Do not send Father to Meknes right away. You will find me most appreciative if you hold him prisoner here instead of sending him to the sultan."

"Sooner or later Youssef must go to Meknes," Jamal contended.

"Make it later," Zara pleaded. "The sultan doesn't know Father is here yet, and as long as his caravans are no longer threatened, he will not care."

"He will care. Ishmail wants Youssef's head. But I will grant you this boon, my sweet. For the time being, Youssef and his followers will remain my prisoners. Do not ask more of me than that."

Zara felt a surge of joy. As long as Youssef remained, she knew she could find a way to free him. Obtaining her father's freedom would be worth the loss of her innocence. She had retained it longer than most women; thirteen was considered the ideal age for brides and concubines.

"Very well, I agree to your terms."

Jamal gave her a slow, provocative smile. "Allah be praised. My patience is about to be rewarded. In my arms, sweet vixen, you may be as wild as you like."

"I wish to see my father," Zara said, refusing to return his smile. Her decision gave her little joy.

"I will arrange it. You have this day to prepare yourself for me. After your visit with your father, Hammet will take you to the harem. Nafisa will take care of you."

The moment Jamal spoke his name, Hammet entered the chamber. "Are you ready to break your fast, my lord?"

"Aye, bring enough for two. Zara will share my repast."

When Hammet left, Jamal rose naked from the bed. The sight of him took Zara's breath away. His legs were long and strongly made; his torso rippled with muscles and tendons beneath smooth golden skin. His entire body bespoke power and supple grace. Hands on hips, legs spread apart, he faced the open window and drew in several deep breaths before glancing at Zara.

"Come, we will bathe together before our food arrives." He held out his hand. "Come."