Sands of Time - The Al-Hakim brothers - Javier and Amanda story - Completed

Chapter Two

The red jewel in the snake-designed bracelet's eye caught Mandy's in the mirror as it reflected from the overhead lights. She ran a finger over its rippled details of the scaled carved head of silver. A precious buy from the souks that morning.

Simone had spent the day in bed, after her very early morning, just as she had warned. Mandy, herself had spent the most enjoyable night in Razul and Connie's company. They had also invited Jessica and her husband, Prince Azir his Bin Al-Ahmed, who had been the most charming man, and didn't mind at all of her bombardment of questions about his homeland.

Sighing, she placed her chin in cupped hands as the memories flooded back, touched by Connie kindness, and gentle nature. Connie had also taken her aside, before she had left, and told her they were very much alike. She too had been shy, until she had met Razul. There had been a special message in her eyes, an understanding of her nature.

Leaning back, she collected her handbag, re-touching her makeup, adding eye shadow that highlighted her large eyes, blush to lift her high cheek bone structure, and fiery red lipstick to her generous mouth, then stood, straightening the simple cut but a classic black dress that fell softly around her knees.

Once again, she admired the Arabian influence in the elite bathroom that was straight out of a designer's magazine. Black marble sinks, red Persian carpet, gold trimmed mirrors and matching taps. Sultry. The door opened as another guest entered, and Mandy made her escape, knowing she couldn't hide in there all night.

Instantly she spotted her sister. She was like a beacon amongst the crowd tonight, in this grand ballroom, wearing a golden ballgown that clung like a second skin, showing off the perfect curves, the neckline daring, teasing the sight with her ample bust. Michael was at her side in a classic black Tuxedo, even shaved. He took her completely by surprise. Under that unkempt man was a very attractive one.

"Mademoiselle?" Stunned, Mandy turned, finding a waiter at her side with a glass on a tray. The only one. "Compliments from your host."

How could she refuse? "Thank you," She smiled, taking the glass, sipping from the crystal long flute. Bubbles tickled her nose as she looked around. She hadn't even met their host, probably because they had arrived late. Everyone else had already arrived, when they had entered. Simone had loved the attention. She hadn't. Her gaze rested upon an open door that beckoned her. Without a thought, she glided across the smooth floor of marble, slipping out into the cool air of the night, and stared up into the star studded skies. Lifting her face towards the stirring, refreshing breeze, she stepped closer towards the balcony's rail.

"Well, well, if it isn't my favourite woman driver," a deep voice drawled from behind her. Heart pounding, warmth flooded her cheeks as she turned. Discovering her mysterious Arab, leaning against the open glass door frame, dressed once again in flowing robes, however, his headdress was gone, revealing thick, black waves that crowned his chiselled features, curling under at the robe's collar. Black eyes like the velvet night gleamed at her with an unwavering stare.

Unnerved, Mandy lowered her eyes, staring at her drink that shook in trembling fingers, so grasped the glass tightly in both hands. "You're certainly are a skittish little creature, are you not, Amanda Russell." His voice so close, she could almost feel his breath upon her skin. Her eyes flew up, and involuntarily stepped back. The dark, forbidding man was only mere inches away from her.

"I'm truly sorry about what happened," she said softly, finding her voice that was unsteady and husky.

"I am not." The statement startled her that she faltered, coloured, and turned, staring back up at the stars. At least they didn't burn into her soul or make her feel like a quivering mess, too aware of his presence. "I have already forgotten about the incident." His warm breath feathered her cheek, igniting her senses, sending a tremor through her. A spicy, woodsy scent swirled around her, stealing her breath away.  Desperately, she clutched at the rail that was handily, steadying herself as her knees threatened to buckle, feeling lightheaded. "I hope you don't plan to stay here all night alone. You see I couldn't possibly allow such an event to happen." Briefly, she closed her eyes, fighting her treacherous body.