Every Last Kiss, Final Copy, June 30, 2011 by Courtney Cole Page A

candlelight from the torch above us illuminated his handsome bronzed face.
          “Shall I escort you to the queen’s chambers?  It appears that you have a knack for finding trouble today. And just in case you feel the need to terminate anyone else, I should be there for your protection.” I smiled at him and grabbed his arm, enjoying the way his hard muscles bulged under my fingertips.
          “I would be proud to have you as an escort, General,” I answered formally, grinning up at him.  “Just in case I need to fire anyone else, of course.” 
          He smiled at me again, his entire face lighting up and I felt my knees grow weak as I remembered how we had spent the afternoon.  I quickly pushed the fluttery feelings out of my mind. I couldn’t think about that now.  
          As we walked the remainder of the way to Cleopatra’s private rooms through the darkened, hushed halls, I simply focused on enjoying the feeling of his arm linked with mine and the strength that exuded from his every pore.  I was disappointed when we arrived at Cleopatra’s carved golden doors far too quickly. 
          “I will leave you here, my lady.  But I will see you at dinner.” His dark eyes sparkled as he bent to kiss my lips softly.  “Try to stay out of trouble.”  
          I closed my eyes and inhaled him, pulling him closer. 
          “Wanton woman!” he whispered into my neck.  I could feel his smile against my skin and knew that he was only joking.  “You will need to be patient and wait until tonight.” 
          He pulled away and walked on, glancing sideways at me impishly as he passed.  I stood still and watched him retreat for just a moment, watching the distinct lope of his stride before quietly entering Cleopatra’s chambers. 
          I found her sitting on her balcony gazing absently at the city below.  The stars had come out and were twinkling far above us, as the gentle Alexandrian night breeze caressed our skin.  Torches had been lit in the streets and the rich golden glow from them lit the night.  I sat at the base of her lounge wordlessly, examining her pensive expression.
          “What are you thinking, my queen?” I asked softly. 
          “Of everything, Charmian,” she sighed.  “Only of everything.”
          “That is quite a lot to think of, Cleopatra,” I answered lightly, although I completely understood. 
          Ever since my afternoon with Hasani, thoughts of everything had swirled non-stop in my head, as well. I couldn’t stop it, no matter how hard I tried. 
          “Thank you for today, by the way.” I turned to her again. “It was nice to spend quiet time with Hasani… with all of the stress that we’ve been shouldering of late.” I glanced at Cleopatra to find her smiling knowingly.
          “Somehow, I doubt your afternoon was quiet, love,” she murmured wryly, nudging me.  I rolled my eyes and she laughed.
          “I see that you’re still offering no details.  And that’s fine,” she grinned impishly.  “I know you will spill it eventually.  You’re horrible at keeping secrets.  Shall I dress for dinner?” 
          She didn’t wait for my answer which was good, because she didn’t notice my snort when she announced that I was horrible at secret-keeping.  My middle name might as well be Secret. 
          She strolled to her armoire, sifting among the hanging clothing.  She chose a long, turquoise shift with an elaborate embroidered belt and tossed them onto her bed as she stripped off the clothing that she was wearing.  
          I helped her dress and then sat her in front of me as I wound her hair into a coil to be concealed by her elaborate black wig.  As I worked, I decided to casually mention my run-in with Tehran.  My fingers deftly continued to tuck her hair underneath the wig’s cap as I spoke, making sure no errant tendrils escaped.