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

They kept up a steady pace, but did not hurry. Once they turned the corner, Nenet led them into a nook beside a bakery. She set the bag down and allowed Wen to climb out. The child threw her arms around Cassian.


“We’re still not out of danger,” Nenet said. “We need to hurry.”


Cassian lifted Wen and held her close. Now they could go faster. They looked like three women heading home for lunch. Nothing out of the ordinary.


They did the secret knock on the door of the warehouse. It swung open and they slipped inside. Now, they were safe.


Cassian collapsed to the floor, still clinging to the child.


“Wen,” he said into her hair. “I’m so glad you’re all right.”


“You didn’t know. You only wanted what was promised you.”


Cassian raised his chin and glanced at Lachlan. “Are Yashiv and the other back?”


He nodded. They had farther to travel. “Wen, let’s get you cleaned up.” Flour residue coated her hair and dress.


Chapter 56