Tales Of The Heart

(35)

Inaya's mind was preoccupied with Prince Zahir's recent behavior. He had been unusually protective of her, but instead of feeling uncomfortable, she found it endearing. His actions didn't seem romantic or suspicious, but rather carried a brotherly warmth that puzzled her.

A day ago, she was walking through the palace gardens when Prince Zahir appeared beside her, offering to accompany her out of concern for her safety on the uneven path. Though Inaya reassured him that she had walked the path many times before, Zahir still took her elbow to guide her across a rough patch of stones.

Whereas, Shahzaib was observing from a distance and quickly approached. Although his tone remained polite, his tense body language showed his irritation as he insisted that Inaya was capable of handling herself and as her husband, he would take care of her.

Later, during supper, Inaya reached for a dish when Zahir blocked her hand, warning her that the dish was spicy and might not be suitable for her. Inaya expressed her fondness for spicy food, but before she could serve herself, Shahzaib who seated beside Inaya, intervened sharply, reminding Zahir that Inaya knew her own preferences and didn't need to be monitored. The tension between the two men grew borderline noticeable as Zahir smiled playfully and tried to diffuse the situation

As the supper ended, Inaya decided to take a short stroll under the moonlight. Zahir found her again, expressing concern about the late hour and suggesting that she should be resting. Though Inaya appreciated his kindness, she explained that she wanted a few moments alone to enjoy the beautiful night. Zahir offered to accompany her, stating that he didn't want her to come to any harm.

But again, before Inaya could respond, Shahzaib appeared, clearly irritated, and told Zahir firmly that Inaya was his wife, and it was his responsibility to ensure her safety, as the male's moves were getting on Shahzain's nerves. He didn't wish to disrespect their guest thus he tried hard to control himself.

Zahir immediately stepped back and apologized for overstepping, leaving Shahzaib visibly possessive and protective over Inaya.

●○●○●○●○

The following morning, as the royal court gathered, Prince Zahir announced his sudden departure, surprising everyone.

"I'm afraid urgent matters require my attention back at the Sapphire Kingdom", Zahir explained, his tone apologetic. "It has been an honor to be here, but I must leave sooner than planned", he said.

Apparently, he found the man and he decided to keep him hostage and bring him to his kingdom without Azurah's intervention. He didn't even inform Shahzaib regarding his successful search.

The Emperor frowned slightly, but nodded in understanding.
"We are sorry to see you go, Prince Zahir. Safe travels", he wished with a smile.

Shahzaib, was still tensed from the previous night but was visibly taken aback.
"You are leaving so suddenly?", he asked.

Zahir offered him a small, knowing smile. "Yes, but not for the reasons you might think. My duties call me back, and I must answer them. Until we meet again", he assured.

Zahir turned to Inaya and smiled at her bashfully as he bid his farewell. Inaya watched Zahir with confusion as he turned to leave, she did notice how his eyes lingered on her for a moment longer than necessary before he departed.

●○●○●○●○

At midnight, Shahzaib stirred awake, the sound of quiet retching reaching his ears. Frowning, he found Inaya missing from the bed. He jolted upright in alarm, scanning the room until he spotted her by the corner, her body hunched over as she vomited, in the chamber pot.