Nine years ago, Cassian witnessed the assassination of his father, which left him to lead the desert clan. Growing up, he had relied on help from those around him; now an adult, Cassian wants to prove his own worth. His first task -- securing the love of his bodyguard, Yashiv. Though the two have been inseparable since Cassian’s childhood, he fears Yashiv won’t let down his walls of propriety. Then Cassian finds a child, the only survivor of the king’s caravan procession. Wen claims to be the bride for Prince Manoel, the ruler of the nearby city, but underlying currents of her story raise Cassian’s suspicions. Cassian and Yashiv must find where Wen belongs, before rival clans, the city’s guards, or Cassian’s own people decide the child’s fate. Can Cassian and Yashiv find out where Wen belongs before her fate is decided by rival clans or Cassian’s own people? And can Cassian show Yashiv he’s now a man, as well as Master of his clan?

Shifting Sand

Yashiv had to force the words out. “It’s not proper.”


“That’s not what I’m asking. Yashiv, if you don’t feel the same, I understand that. I’m a child compared to you. I’m pampered and still have a lot to learn. I blunder through all my tasks. I’m not good at anything but weaving. There are so many reasons for you to look on me as a little brother. And if that’s the case, I won’t penalize you for that. I’d never force you into anything. I only want to know the truth. I love you, and my heart hopes you burn for me in the same way.”


“Master—” Yashiv swallowed and tried again. “Master, I love you, too. But there’s no way I can act on my feelings. You are my Master, and I serve you. I cannot entangle our lives further, or I won’t be able to ensure your safety.”


Cassian’s smile stretched wide, crinkling the corners of his eyes. “You love me.”


Chapter 25