Craving Temptation by Deborah Fletcher Mello

much passion, the intensity of it sweeping every one of her sensibilities from her. She was suddenly hungry for him as she parted her lips, her tongue seeking his. He tangled his fingers in the back of her hair as he pulled her closer. There was something magical about the dance they were doing, their tongues twisting and turning in perfect sync. Amina couldn’t imagine the moment being sweeter.

    Her father was sitting in his study when Amina entered the family home. The house was quiet, nothing at all stirring. She had barely gotten the front door closed behind her when he called her name, his tone commanding her to join him. Amina took a deep breath, blowing it past her lips before moving into the room.
    â€œFather, you’re still up,” she said, fighting to keep her tone casual.
    Nasser was sitting in an upholstered wingback chair, the piece like a throne around him. His legs and hands were crossed. He’d been reading and as she’d entered the room he’d set his book aside and had pulled his reading glasses from his face. He nodded, gesturing with his head for her to take a seat.
    â€œMy daughter is out running around until all hours of the night and you would expect me to be able to rest?”
    â€œI’m sorry, Father. I didn’t mean for you to worry.”
    â€œBut I do, Amina. What kind of father would I be if I did not worry about my children?”
    Amina blew a deep sigh. “I understand but . . .” she started before he interrupted, stalling her comment.
    â€œYou don’t understand, Amina, and I do not believe you are trying to understand. I know that your life was very different when you were living with your mother and I know this is a big change for you but I expect you to do better. There will be obedience in my home and I will not be disrespected.”
    â€œBut, Father, I didn’t—”
    Nasser cut her off a second time. He shook his head as he continued. “I believe that I have given you far too much responsibility with my campaign. My expectations are too great, especially since there is much you still need to be learning about Islam and our beliefs and values. I’ve asked Basil to step in as co-campaign manager to assist you.”
    Amina bristled. “But I don’t need Basil’s help! I am perfectly capable of running this campaign, Father.”
    Her father nodded. “No, you don’t. You are very capable. But I do think you need you brother’s support. This position has demands on your time that would be better served by a man. A woman should not be keeping such late hours. For certain situations it is more appropriate for Basil to step in and support you.”
    The man paused to take a breath, leaning forward in his seat as he did. “You need to trust me on this. A father does know best and this is for the best. I expect that you will try to spend more time with your sister. You can both be great influences on each other. It’s time you started thinking about marriage and a family of your own; preparing yourself to be a good wife. Rasheeda can help you with that.”
    â€œAnd what can I help Rasheeda with?” Amina asked, her tone slightly sarcastic as she met his stern gaze with one of her own.
    Nasser’s jaw tightened. He took his own breath and held it before speaking. “Rasheeda has been sheltered here with me and your brother for far too long. I think you can help her blossom; to realize her full potential. You can help her realize some of her dreams; to become as accomplished as you’ve become.”
    Amina dropped her gaze to the floor as she nodded.
    Nasser smiled. “I am not your enemy, Daughter. I only want the very best for you. I hope you know that.”
    â€œI do, Father.”
    Rising from his seat Nasser moved to Amina’s side. He gripped her face between his two palms and gently kissed her forehead. “We’re having family dinner tomorrow. Please, be