“I—I . . .” Shahrzad attempted. “I know,” Despina finished. Lost in their wordless conversation, it took both girls some time to recognize the next figure striding onto the sand. When Shahrzad looked down, she was dismayed by the instant tightening sensation in her chest. She knitted her brow and pressed her lips into a line. The caliph’s shoulders were tan and lean; each of the muscles in his trim torso shone, defined and well articulated in the afternoon sun. Despina sighed. “Despite everything, I have to admit I’ve always found him quite handsome. Such a shame.” Again, Shahrzad felt the
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