Page 15 of The Sheikh's Matchmaker Bride

Azim smiled. "For someone you claim was just a friend, you and Aliyah looked pretty close."

"It was a wedding, Azim," Shahid said. "You know what happens at weddings."

"I'm about to find out," Azim said with a grin.

Shahid laughed and punched his brother playfully on the arm. "Another one down."

Azim looked at Shahid. "And one brother left standing," he said.

Shahid rolled his eyes. "Don't start on that again."

"Maybe it's time, Shahid. You know what father thinks."

Shahid sighed. "I certainly do. Father has made his views pretty clear."

"He's only trying to think of your best interests, Shahid."

"I know. But, sometimes he's not exactly diplomatic the way he talks about marriage. For him it's all about tradition and honor."

"At least he hasn't tried to pick a bride for you," Azim said.

Shahid nodded. "I suppose you're right. That would've been disastrous."

Shahid shivered at the thought of an arrange marriage. They still took place amongst Qazhar families, especially when there were strong ties between tribes. But, Shahid felt he was of another generation. Marriages of convenience weren't for him. He had been used to an entirely different kind of life these past years, and he knew, deep down, that a bride chosen for him wouldn't be something he could have in his life.

"We're of a different generation, Azim," Shahid said evenly. "Why can't father understand that?"

Azim smiled. "He means well. Shahid. And mother is also thinking about what's best for you. You know that, don't you?"

Shahid nodded. "I do. The last thing I'd want to do is shame the family."

Azim laughed. "You've been pushing the edge on that one, don't you think?"

"What are you talking about?" Shahid demanded.

"Don't you think in the last few years you've been just a bit wild?" Azim asked.

Shahid shrugged. "No worse than any of my friends."

Azim nodded sagely. "We might be brothers, but we've always had different ideas of life, I guess."

Shahid took Azim by the shoulders. "You've done pretty well, Azim. You're about to marry an amazing, beautiful woman. Lucy is really special."

Azim nodded. "She is, isn't she?"

"I'm so happy for you," Shahid said.

"Thanks, brother. That means a lot to me." Azim frowned at Shahid. "But it doesn't get you off the hook. You still haven't given me an answer about you and Aliyah," he added quickly changing the tone of the conversation.

Shahid groaned, realizing his effort at diverting Azim's attention had failed miserably. "We're just good friends. That's all there is to it. Why can't you believe me?"

Azim shook his head. "I know you too well." He sighed. "Never mind. If you insist, then I suppose I have to take your word." Azim narrowed his eyes and peered at Shahid. "For the moment, at least."

Had his brother guessed? Had Azim read Shahid's mind? He thought about Aliyah's insistence that nothing distract attention from the happy couple about to be married in a few days. Shahid knew Aliyah was right. They'd have to maintain the pretence. At least for the time being.

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