Chapter 24: The Bet

Siroos didn't let her go until her hair and garb had dried. He finally took a reluctant step back and removed his arms so she could pass. 

Every meeting with this man was exhilarating and would leave Cassandra grappling for breath. 

He finally led her to the stones where the breakfast was being cooked. Today they had broken the meat into small tender bits and placed it on a large leaf so she could relish it with ease. 

A small smile appeared on Cassandra's face seeing their care. 

Everyone except Faris stood up, seeing them approach, and only settled back down once Siroos had given them permission with a curt nod of his head. 

Faris placed the leaf in front of Cassandra as she settled on the stone with a spread cloth for her. 

He said with a wave of his hand, "Apologies, we have no bread." 

"It's not an issue. I can eat whatever." Cassandra wasn't a picky eater; she was just not used to eating without proper cutlery.