She simply nodded.
He had an overwhelming urge to take her hand or bring her closer, comfort her in some way. But that wasn’t the relationship they had. So instead, he crouched down and petted Mira’s spotted head. The purr vibrated against his palm.
After a few seconds, Aisha crouched down opposite him. ‘She’s really excellent company.’
‘My mother?’
She fought against a smile.
‘I’m pleased I let you talk me into keeping her, then,’ he said.
‘You make it sound like you had a choice.’
His mouth curved up. ‘I’m pleased Maryam’s also proving to be good company.’
Aisha nodded. ‘I have Mira to bite my toes and Maryam to bring me tea.’ The humour fell flat because it was laced with sadness.
Guilt gnawed at Tariq’s insides. She had one attendant, a wild pet, and his mother’s scrutiny for company.
‘You’ll be seeing your family soon,’ he said, trying to make them both feel better.
Her expression softened. ‘I’m counting the days.’
Mira chose that moment to tumble onto her back, batting playfully at Aisha’s sleeve. ‘You’re going to shred my gown.’
Tariq gently pried the cub off her.
‘Thank you,’ Aisha laughed.
The sound had him looking up. Her laughter died when their eyes met. They both rose and took a small step back.
‘I should…’ She glanced behind her.
‘Yes, you should.’
Her lips parted like she was about to add something, but instead she reached down to scoop Mira into her arms. ‘Your Highness.’
Tariq inclined his head. ‘Princess.’
He watched Aisha walk away before going in the opposite direction. Kaidon was waiting for him at the far end of the courtyard, arms folded and watchful as ever.
‘I see things are still awkward between the two of you,’ Kaidon said when Tariq reached him.
Tariq looked back at Aisha, who was playing with Mira once again. ‘I’d like to organise for some of Aisha’s sisters to arrive early. She needs them.’
‘For wedding preparations?’
Tariq shook his head. ‘For her sanity.’
The pair of them began walking.
‘You could offer her your company, you know,’ Kaidon said.
‘I’m the last person she wants to spend time with.’
Kaidon waited until they passed a servant coming in the other direction before speaking again. ‘If you want my advice?—’
‘Your longest relationship is two nights. I’m not taking relationship advice from you.’
