Page 19 of Bride of the Gilded Prince

We didn’t have a choice.

“How do you know so much about the Lunja?”

“I read a lot.” I shrugged. “We are one nation, but we are so different. I wanted to understand them. But it’s also part of my job. There’s a certain level of correspondence expected from the Department of Education and Intercultural Affairs.”

That piqued her curiosity. “What are they like?”

“They’re… different.” I tried to find the right words. “Very traditional, and they place a lot of importance on family and honor. They can be cold, but they’re also very passionate. They’re not bad people. You just have to learn how to deal with them.”

They were also arrogant, and they liked to flaunt their wealth. But I supposed that was to be expected. A society that valued craftsmanship and artistry would also value material possessions.

Her expression turned serious. “I’ll do my best.”

“I know you will,” I said confidently. “You’re a smart woman. You’ll figure it out. I even met one, you know?”

“You did?” Her eyes widened as she leaned forward. “When? You never told me that before?”

“That one year I worked in Bodrum. An aide of the ambassador visited the university and spotted me there.”

“How did it go?”

“It was stressful. I was so anxious. I don’t believe I made a good first impression.”

He was distant, and I could tell he was judging me. I didn’t fit into his world, and he didn’t hide it.

“What happened?”

I chuckled. “He just said that my job was fascinating to him. But he didn’t mean it. I could tell. He was simply interested in what I was doing there. I was just another curiosity to him.”

Interested in where my allegiance lied.

“Did you ever see him again?”

“A few times. In passing. He would always stop and talk to me, but it was always about work.”

Souhir was silent for a moment, digesting this information. “Are they as lovely as the stories?”

“They are. Even more so. They have a certain... allure. I can see why people are so taken with them.” My voice softened as I remembered those few encounters. “But they’re not to be taken lightly.”

Pretty like a painting, but just as distant.

“I’ll remember that,” she said solemnly. “Do you miss it? Bodrum?”

I sighed. “I loved working there. The culture is different. But I’m happy here. I have my family, and I love my job. But let’s get ready for our trip, shall we? I have a feeling it’s going to be illuminating.”

∞∞∞

We couldn’t help but stare in wonder at the beautiful manor house before us. Great wealth lived here.

The manor was built in a traditional style, with intricate detailing and colorful mosaics. The grounds were well-kept and lush, with towering palm trees and bright flowers. We paused to watch a group of women leaving the house, laughing and talking. They were all elegantly dressed, with their hair up in elaborate styles.

“This is where the Caid lives?” Souhir whispered.

“This is his second home.” I nudged Souhir as I stared at the children playing with a ball in the garden. “Remember when we were that little?” I asked her, recalling our childhood games.

“Yes.” Souhir laughed. “I remember.”

One servant approached us with a smile. “You’re almost late.”

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