Dinah

Chapter 7

My slumber was disturbed by the opening of the door. I lay tensely facing the wall hoping the servant would simply leave the wash basin. To my chagrin, the footsteps paused only momentarily when the basin was deposited and then continued toward the bed. I felt a hand laid lightly on my shoulder and then the voice of Sheerah said quietly, "Dinah, are you awake?"

Without turning I replied, "Yes, Sheerah, but please go away. I am too ashamed to face you."

Sitting on the edge of the bed, she persisted, "But Shem asked me to take care of you. Even if he hadn't, I would want to help you. You and I wanted to be friends. I haven't changed, have you?"

Sitting up and turning to face her, I said, "Oh, Sheerah, I am so scared. I need a friend now more than ever."

Leaning over and giving me a tight hug, she responded, "I could kill my selfish brother. He should consider the consequences before he acts. I only hope he succeeds in his errand." Smiling she continued, "I think I would like having you for a sister‑in‑law."

Returning her smile, I said in relief, "I am so glad you don't hate me. But don't judge Shem too harshly. I was so shaken that my memory is clouded. I know there was pain and humiliation, but those receded when I looked into his eyes and recognized the underlying love. You must understand that all of my life I have dreamed of marrying a man who looks at me the way Papa does Aunt Rachel. These are not the circumstances I would have chosen, but it is worth the sacrifice." Sitting on the bed hugging Shem's robe, I finished, "Please don't let them send me home. I am afraid that if I leave here, I will never see Shem again."

Sheerah laughed, "There's not much chance of that. Under the circumstances it would be foolish for Shem to come in his finery to claim you as bride. No, I imagine they will make the arrangements while allowing you to remain as a guest until you are officially a member of the family. You had better get up and clean yourself. I'm sure that my mother will desire an audience with you once Papa has made a decision. I have brought a silk dress and robe for you as Shem suggested. He felt you might be more comfortable retaining your familiar tunic."

Urging Sheerah to stay, I arose and cleansed myself as best I could with such a small basin. As we chattered about inconsequential matters, I dressed in the soft silk dress. Allowing Sheerah to brush and braid my hair, I sat running my hand over the smooth cloth swinging my legs to feel the folds swish against my calves. With mock severity, Sheerah asked me to be still so she could complete her task. I had just donned the headpiece when there was a knock on the door. Sheerah admitted a maid who had come with a message from Shem's mother requesting that I come to her chamber. Dismissing the servant, Sheerah indicated that she would show me to their mother's room. Though I begged her to enter with me, she indicated that she could not.

Squeezing my hand, she whispered, "Her name is Donatiya. Don't be frightened; she is a sweet lady. I will provide moral support from the courtyard." Giving me a slight push in the direction of the door, Sheerah turned toward the center of the yard.

My hesitant knock was answered immediately by a soft voice saying only, "Enter." With head bowed, I entered slowly certain that I was an unwanted intruder. As I knelt humbly before Donatiya, I was surprised to hear, "Arise, daughter. You are welcome."' Rising slowly, I looked into a pair of sad eyes as their owner, continued, "I regret that we meet under these conditions. I am ashamed of my son. Can you forgive us?"

Uncertain of how to reply, I merely nodded. Evidently sensing my timidity, she did not press me but persisted, "Shem has confessed his deception. He and Hamor, my husband, have gone to explain the situation to your father. Shem wishes for you to remain as a guest under our roof until the wedding has been arranged. I want to know what your wish is in this matter. You have been sorely misused, and I do not want to incur further disgrace by holding you against your will."