As
Seshat walked away, Mermeshu watched the graceful sway of her hips. He had to
possess her. Though Intef had spoken of the advantages of a marriage to the
nomarch's daughter by his first wife, Mermeshu had no desire for Nefru. He'd
seen the courtesy Seshat had shown her father. Unlike Nefru, Seshat had
lingered to make sure of her father's comfort. She was sweet and dutiful, yet
there was a banked fire in her eyes. He wanted to be the one to stir the embers
into flames.
She
had none of Nefru's boldness. The way the older sister ogled made him feel like
a slave on the block. He believed he could take Nefru in the garden, then
watched while Intef enjoyed her lush body.
"The
day has been long." He yawned. "I'll see you both in the
morning." He strode back to the house. Let Intef have Nefru. His friend
had a liking for short women with rounded hips and melon breasts.
Mermeshu
was awakened by Intef. "My friend, you missed an enlightening time. You'll
have no trouble claiming Nefru."
Mermeshu
eyed his friend's rumpled kilt. "Seems she prefers you."
Intef
laughed. "She likes men. All she spoke of was you."
"And
you encouraged her."
"What
else can I do?"
"Marry
her and try for the Double Crown."
Intef
shook his head. "I could, but I'm a practical lam. You have the army
behind you. I'll be content to be your vizier."
How
often had they discussed this plan? Their schemes were nearing completion, but
he no longer desired to see them reach fruition. "I...."
Intef
nodded. "Desire the beautiful Seshat. Fear not, you can have them both.
Once Nefru gives you a son, you need not spend time with her."
Mermeshu
nodded. He wasn't certain he wanted any woman but Seshat.
"Let
me think about this new direction. We came for Sehetep's support not the
daughters. We should see what he offers before I go any further with a
courtship of Nefru."
Intef
clapped Mermeshu's shoulder. "You must do what is best for the Two
Lands."
interesting to see what was desired in a mate. shared.
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