“What’s wrong?” He bent his head toward her, but his expression remained dazed, as if he had not comprehended her words.“What has happened?” she prompted again.“It’s …” His voice caught. The silence stretched while Sarah writhed with worry. Darius cleared his throat. “It’s my father. His servants have brought him home with a terrible fever. The king bids me come to Susa immediately. There is no time to waste.”“Oh, Darius. I’m so sorry.” She squeezed his hand. It felt cold and clammy in her hold. “What will you do?”“Leave at once. Lysander can lead the military escort in my absence. The train is moving so slowly that I should be able to catch up with you even if I am gone for a week or more.”“Shall I come with you?” she asked, forgetting that she was not supposed to ride.“You won’t be able to keep up with me, Sarah. I need to get there as soon as possible. There may not be much time.”She nodded. Without considering their curious audience, she wrapped her arms around him.
