Chapter 13The banquet was an intimate affair. Nyles glanced around those gathered outside. Only members of Kasim’s household were present. Rashmi hadn’t exaggerated about the food. Nyles was certain there was enough to feed an army.
Aysa sat at Kasim’s feet, but the king fed him from his own plate. Jewel had been permitted to sit beside Nyles, who adopted the king’s gesture and speared succulent morsels to present to Jewel, who glowed with undisguised delight.
The evening grew late as Jewel remained by Nyles and other men from Kasim’s harem sang, danced, or played music. Nyles couldn’t be happier as he stroked Jewel’s shoulder in-between the many golden chains.
“Why are you not dancing tonight, Jewel?” Nyles whispered into his ear.”
“It would hardly be seemly.” Jewel fluttered long, da
