“I am glad you are staying,” I say. “And I will be thankful for your company.” “Good.” Musa flashes me his brilliant smile, and for once, it is not mocking. “Because you still owe me a favor, Empress. And I plan to collect.” My answering laugh is one of delight. Delight that I can feel a thrill when a man I care for makes me smile. That I can look forward to a story told by my friend. That I can find hope in the eyes of the little boy I hold in my arms. That despite all I have survived, or perhaps because of it, there is still joy in my heart.
