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

Chapter Seven

Mandy stood at Javier's side as he answered the press questions. He was a natural. Simone placed on her best face, all smiles, expressing how grateful she was for the Al-Hakim support throughout her ordeal, and also thanked the police for all their help.

"I hope this hasn't left a bad experience on your trip of London, Miss Russell," one reporter asked.

"Not at all," Mandy reassured feeling stronger, especially having Javier at her side. "Everyone has been so wonderful and helpful. My belongings returned, and was shown great hospitality by Monica. I had no idea she was related to Javier's family."

"How did you meet Sheikh Javier Al-Hakim?"

Mandy winced. "Do I really have to tell you?" Catching everyone's attention.

"Oh, you must," they insisted, heads nodding, microphones rose higher.

"I slammed into the back of his car in Cairo." Excitement rippled through the press.

"How did you feel about that Sheikh?" One dared, laughing.

Unfolding his arms, he placed his arm around Mandy, guiding her towards his side, and added dryly. "Let's put it this way. I do all the driving now."

Mandy gasped and swatted his arm, receiving an arched brow. "Don't believe him. His driver does, and if you have been to Cairo, you would know how totally insane it is."

"What were you doing in Cairo, Miss Russell?"

"Mandy, please. My sister invited me to watch her at work, which was fascinating, and a lot of hard work. Myself, I prefer to be in the background, so can we keep it that way?" She asked hopefully, receiving open laughter all around.

"I think it is too late for that, my sweet," Javier noted and could see how the media were falling in love with his breath of fresh air Australian.

"So Mandy, what do you do back in Australia?"

She smiled. "Checkout chick," she said tongue-in-cheek. All focus was back on her.

"This must be overwhelming for you?"

"I must admit, I'm more used to a normal mundane lifestyle, like so many people, all over the world."

"Perhaps Simone, you were the one embarrassed by your sister," came from nowhere. All cameras focused back on the blonde star, who looked shocked, caught off balance.

"No," Mandy came to her defence. "I asked for privacy. She went along with my wishes. Simone's the star and a very talented artist. She was just concerned about my welfare. This was my first time in London. My first trip overseas actually."

"Perhaps the Sheikh would've preferred it, if you had stayed home, seeing you dented his car."

He lifted a brow in regard. "Foolish questions do not get answered. We must leave, if you are satisfied about events that have been taken completely out of context. I do hope you would let Amanda enjoy the rest of her stay in peace."

"Hold on," someone called out in the media, holding a phone to his ear. "A message has just been sent through from Lord and Lady Thornton, who are greatly relieved by the safe return of Amanda Russell, who they found to be a delight and a truly warm person, indeed." All turned towards Mandy, who shook her head in amazement.

"That is so sweet. Thank you, Charles and Charmain. I'm fine and hopefully we can catch up again before I leave." She turned towards Javier, placing a hand on his chest. "You must thank them for me Javier," she added softly. Everyone noticed how she was touching him.

"Would there be a special announcement made in the near future?" A voice come out from the crowd.

"One never knows," Javier noted, smiling down at her, brushing hair from her face. "At this time I am just glad, my Amanda, is safe and sound." He placed a kiss on her forehead as she nestled closer, leaning against him as the cameras flashed.