“We can live anywhere in the world that you desire.” Reza paused and removed his goggles so she could look into his eyes, even though it meant he was sunk in darkness. “I promise you, I will take care of you. I will cherish you.” He bent and managed to bring his lips almost to her cheek beneath the goggles.
Her head did not waver away from him. “I believe you,” she whispered.
His smile was radiant. “I want to love you, to make exquisite love to you.”
A small tremor passed through the observers as that image struck them. Ward turned to watch Ayatollah Amani’s face as the Sheikh explained. Nary a ripple formed on the calm surface.
“Please …” Her voice had become a little stronger. It was Reza’s counterpart, sweet, delicate and feminine. “Put back on your goggles and take off mine.”
Reza
