The Sheikh's Lost Bride - completed

Chapter Twelve

After a long and tiring day, Liza literally let her hair down, glass in hand to savour the robust red wine, bringing back memories of that one deep passionate kiss that nearly tipped her over the edge, until he had said her name. Casey. He kept going back to Casey. He was drawn to her like a moth to a flame. To dance in front of the alive flame. Dancing with danger and that is what he was to her.

Danger with a capital 'D'.

She took another sip, savouring, watching as the beautiful large round orange ball sank behind the desert surrounding dunes. Releasing a long breath, she twirled the wine in the glass. Truly, she didn't know how much longer she could stay her, her head all over the place. Always on edge around Tahir, it was like he was testing her, all the time. What about those guests? All very strange. The staff all seemed to know why she was here.

Why was she here? Placing down the glass, she raked a hand through her loose hair that she stared at. And what was it with him and her hair. Every opportunity it seemed. Then there was the elephant in the room. That kiss. Thrilling, and the hairs on her arms stood to attention. The only problem was she wanted some more of what she had tasted. Maybe it was time to actually start dating. Then there was the old issue.

No past.

"May I join you?" She looked up over her shoulder, ready to stand, where he waved her down.

"Of course, Tahir," his name fell from her lips so easily like a caress. He joined her at the table. Another glass was placed on the table, and red wine poured in front of him that he took and sipped from.

"Very robust." Just like him, her eyes drawn to his lips. Such soft, full inviting, enticing lips that begged to be kissed, so she took another sip.

Bad mistake and placed down her glass.

Leaning back, he crossed his arms. "You really do like it here," he noted of the hidden plantation hideaway.

"There is nothing like it."

"Hmm," he looked out across the desert, where they fell into a silence, as the darkness fell around them. He glanced at his watch and removed his phone. "Shall I book us in?" He glanced across at her, brow arched.

She shook her head, not quite looking him in the eye. "I have already organised room service. Plan on an early night." She gave a weak smile. Distance was called for, although he did insist on walking her back to her villa. He stood at her side, looking at her for the longest time, as wanting to say something. The atmosphere heavy. Her heart racing, nervously fiddling with her dress.

"Good night Tahir," she rushed, needing to escape. Opened the door, and entered, leaving him out on the outside. Closing her eyes, she leaned against the closed door. She had to go home, before he ripped her world apart. He had already in so many ways.

She didn't belong here.

"No!" Screaming awake, Liza sprung up covered in a cold sweat. Trembling, she hugged her arms as she stared into the darkness of the room as her eyes focused, just making out shapes. The curtains were designed to blank out the sunshine during the day, so made the room darker than other rooms, confused and scared, breathing laboured, heart racing.

That feeling of dread came rushing like a crashing of waves in a wild storm that she wanted to pack her bags and leave. She shouldn't be here. Tossing back the covers, she fumbled around in the dark, until she switched on the lamp on the bedside table, blinking at the sudden bright light. Grabbing her negligee, she headed out into the main living area, and towards the kitchen, switching lights on the way.

She didn't actually stop shaking, until she held hot tea in her hands, and drank from the hot brew that she put warmth into her cold body. That she nearly dropped when the phone rang. Crossing over, she placed down her cup, and answered with a shaky, tight voice. One she couldn't control, closing her eyes briefly.