The Sheikh's Second Chance Bride (Qazhar Sheikhs series Book 5) Read Online Free PDF Page A

said.
    Mia glanced behind her and seemed relieved that no-one had overheard her remark. "Let me show you the view from the balcony," she said moving across to the French doors. She pushed them open and stepped out onto the balcony. Lana followed and drew in a sharp, appreciative breath.
    "It's like a fairy-tale garden," she gasped, feeling genuinely awed.
    Before her she saw a riot of color; perfectly kept lawn stretched away into the distance; trees had been planted in neat rows; displays of flowers dripped color throughout the vision of loveliness that had been set down in the middle of the distant desert wilderness. The scents of flowers intoxicated Lana's senses.
    Mia smiled at Lana. "I thought you'd like this. Rafiq and I love walking in the garden."
    "I'll bet you do. It must be so romantic."
    Mia shrugged. "Rafiq likes to ride horses. Especially out in the desert. I'm not much of a rider myself. But, Rafiq is determined to change that."
    Lana smiled. "Now, that sounds really romantic. Out in the desert, on horseback, beneath the full moon." She sighed. "This is just amazing. You're so lucky."
    Mia shook her head. A sudden pensiveness filled her features. "I don't know. There have been times when I wonder if I've made the right decision."
    Lana felt a stab of anxiety. "What are you talking about, Mia. Of course, you've made the right decision." Lana wrapped an arm around Mia's shoulders. "It's obvious you love Rafiq."
    Mia's eyes brightened. "You think so?" she asked, obviously eager for some friendly reassurance.
    Lana smiled and nodded. "I know so. I don't think I've ever seen two people more in love. You've tamed that sheikh," she stated.
    "Tamed?" Mia frowned. "I didn't think of it quite like that. Isn't that a bit old-fashioned."
    "What?"
    "Taming a man."
    "That's what they exist for. Isn't it?" Lana grinned. "To be brought to heel by a good woman and taught a lesson in how to love."
    Mia seemed almost shocked. "I can't imagine Rafiq being brought to his knees by anyone."
    Lana squinted at Mia. "But, you just did it."
    Mia looked surprised. She seemed to consider that thought for a moment and then nodded. "I suppose you're right. But, in the nicest possible way."
    "Of course, Mia. I wouldn't expect anything else from someone as smart and beautiful as you."
    "Now you're embarrassing me," Mia said.
    "Of course, I am. That's what best friends do, isn't it?"
    Mia laughed and then frowned.
    "What's wrong, Mia."
      "I'm so nervous about the wedding," she replied.
    "There's nothing to be nervous about," Lana said.
    "Of course, there is. Have you ever been to a Qazhar wedding?"
    "Not that I can recall," Lana said with a wry grin. "This is my first time in the country."
    "They're totally different from anything back home," Mia said.  
    "I'm sure they are," Lana said.
    Mia shook her head and looked very serious. "The expectations on the bride are enormous. And there'll be hundreds of guests. And, tonight there's to be a pre-wedding reception. Everyone who's anyone will be there. I'll be the center of attention."
    "What's wrong with that," Lana crooned rubbing Mia's shoulder. "By the way, thanks for letting me know."
    Mia's eyes widened. "About what?"
    "The reception," Lana said. "What am I going to wear? You saw the size of my bags. I didn't exactly come prepared for palace receptions."
    Mia smirked. "Don't be silly. You and I are the same size."
    Lana gave Mia a querying look. "Really?"
    Mia laughed. "Well, almost. You can borrow something of mine. Rafiq's been on a spending spree recently. He's been buying me all sorts of dresses. Too many. And, wait until you and go shopping in Qazhar City. The stores have everything."
    "So, tonight is the princesses ball before her wedding. Is that it?" Lana joked.
    Mia looked suddenly pale. Lana could sense the worry consuming her friend. Her heart went out to Mia. Lana could only begin to guess at how difficult it must have been for Mia to adjust these past few weeks since the