A Bride at the Prince's Command

8/10/2019 A Bride at the Prince's Command

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Chapter One

Amanda looked at the man in front of her in horror as anger flooded her veinsmaking her wish that he was a million miles away. Sadly Prince Raul Al Hassanwas right in front of her, looking as though he was ready to start a fight. His eyesas icicles. Amanda took a deep steady breath, trying to calm herself. She would notrun away, and act like a scared child. No. She would not. She would not run away.She knew that his day was fast approaching, and now that it was here, she wouldembrace her future. Amanda was not ready to let go of her life. In fact, she didntwant to do her duty.As the princes betrothed and future wife Amanda had received news of theupcoming announcement of their betrothal, but as the woman whose existence hehad ignored for years, she had not acknowledged it. When she told him that themoment was a bit too soon, and she was not ready. He had told her straight out,that no more time was to be given. The time was fast approaching for him to take a

wife, and queen.She had been just a baby when their parents had signed the betrothal contract, andhad been aware that her life was already planned out. From the age of six her

parents had shipped her off to a school designed for teaching girls how to be a perfect wife, and most of all how to be a perfect mistress, and how to keep theirhusbands happy, something that was a necessity. For the next twelve yearsAmanda was taught how to be a perfect wife and mistress of a household. Amandahad survived all the humiliation expecting to be released from school to marry

Raul, but for him to never come and get her. She had shown up at the major parties,special events, and not even once had he brought up their future wedding, andalthough h e had treated her with uppermost respect, Amanda couldnt help but feelthat she was insignificant to him, like a doll put up on a shelf.When Amanda had turned eighteen, she started to realize that she wanted to takeher life back, and create her own futu re. She didnt want to sit and wait for a man


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who never had the time or the desire to glace at her. Amanda never wanted to betold what she could and couldnt do. A few months after her eighteenth birthdayshe had called her portents and told them of her plans, and announcing that untilRaul was ready to come and get her, she made her own decisions. Her parents had

been furious, but Amanda was grown up, and she had a say in what went on in herlife. Few days later Raul had called and was furious, and announced that he wouldcome and get her when he was ready.

Now three years later, she had her own apartment, and a simple job as a cashier. Itwasnt much, but it paid the bills, but also gave her a chance at a normal life,something she knew she would not have for much longer. Amanda always got thefeeling that out of nowhere, Raul would walk in unannounced, and destroy it.What are you thinking about Cara Mia?Raul asked, looking at her with dark

black eyes, eyes that she swore could see through her soul.I dont think you would like to know She said harshly. Trust me, I would like to know what is in that pretty little head of your CaraHesaid leaning back against the couch waiting for her answer.How about we start as to why it took you three years to de cide that you hadwanted? Amanda asked bitterly You were just a child Amanda, yes I do admit that I could have taken you out ofthe horrible place of a school, but I thought that you needed some time to come tothe terms of our marriage, and time is what I gave you Oh I see, so you gave you some time you mean? Did you bother to think that Imight have not wanted this marriage? Raul gave Amanda a glare before standing up and crossing over to her.I dont think you knew what you wanted Amanda. Years ag o when we first hadmet, you looked at me with stars in your eyes remember? When your father hadtold you of our engagement, you had smiled with joy, what had changed that youwant to cancel all of the plans? Amanda wanted to scream in frustration. From the first moment that she had metRaul, she couldnt deny that there was a deep attraction between them. As theyears went by Amanda started to grow up, and later on then realized that all herfeeling for Raul was nothing more than a crush.Amanda, I didn t come here to argue, but bring my bride and future queen ofZahara back to my country. You knew that I was coming. You have been preppedand ready from the day you turned eighteen. Now stop acting like a child, and get


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ready. We leave in one hour. Raul a nnounced before walking over to her andkissing her.I dont have a say do I?She whispered before leaning into him and putting hermouth to his.

His mouth was so soft gentle at first, before Amanda knew it; Raul wrapped hisarms around her and brought her closer to him, deepening the kiss. It seemed likeforever until they separated, breathing hard trying to catch their breaths. Forminutes no words were exchanged.Wow Amanda whispered bringing her fingers to her mouth. A small laugh escaped from Raul, making her feel ashamed. Amanda swore toherself that whatever happened she would not do this again. Would not get caughtup with him again, but here she was breaking all her rules, and putting her heart

out there for him to break.Keep doing that Cara and you wont get out of this house untouched Hewhispered leaning over to give her another kiss, before exiting the room.


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Chapter Two

Raul sighed as he leaned back against the cool leather seat on his jet. He had not

meant to demand so much from Amanda, but she had to put her feelings before herown and get ready to become his wife and queen, and the mother of his children.Raul had noticed how much she had changed as the years had passed. She hadgrown up. Making her own living and working day and night to make sure she hada place to live was a responsibility he had to admit he didnt think she would taketo. He never thought that she would take such drastic measures to live on her own.In his county in Zahara, no man would allow their woman to walk off on their ownwithout an escort and most of all unprotected.

Glancing at the woman in the seat across from him Raul wondered what it wouldtake to gain her trust. Amanda not one talked to him since they left Brooklyn butrather looked out the window with defiance in her eyes. A small sigh escaped himas he stood up and walked over to her. He had to make amends before they reachedthe palace. Once they were enclosed in the safety of the palace walls he would not

be able to see her much until the wedding. He didnt want to start an argument withher but she had to be able to take charge and act like an adult, no that of a spoiledchild.

We will be landing shortly your highness the captain announced before going back to the cockpit.Thank you Raul announced

Amanda sat motionless in her seat. It was just about two days since they had lefther Brooklyn apartment, all packed and ready. She couldnt help but feel lost. Shedidnt want to be married to a barbarian. She would rather be a million miles away,

but thoughts of where she was at the moment, brought her back to reality. Shedidnt have a choice. Would you like something to drink? Eat?Raul asked taking a seat next to her. No. Thank you You have to eat something Cara you need to be in good health Amanda sighed and looked at him. She didnt want to talk to him. The fact that hewas right beside her made her head spin. The thought of the kiss they shared madeit all the more reason why she hated being near him. Just because he was royalty,


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and had ev erything he wanted, didnt mean that his charm would work on her! Raul I am not hungry she said turning her head to look outside the window. A small sigh escaped Raul. Taking her chin in his hand, he turned he face so thatshe would look at him. Her eyes were filled with unshed tears, and her lower lip

trembling. He didnt know what to do. He had never met a woman who had somany unwrapped emotions running through her. He softly cursed. This was gettingout of control. They would be at the palace soon, and she had to get herselftogether.Hush cara miahe said softly bringing her small fisted hands into his. Amanda tried to look away, but he brought her chin back to his face so that shewas forced to look at him. Forced to look at the sheer beauty of a man she had longloved, but at the same time despised.

Is it so terrible to be married to me? Am I that terrible that you have to run? heasked looking into her eyes.I had a life Raul! I was actually happy. I knew that one day you would come, butwhen, I didnt know. I dont belong in your world, and its not fair for you to dragme into it Amanda announced wiping the tear that had fallen. Amanda you used to be an heiress, you know how to handle change more thansome people. I do admit that I should have warned you, but you knew of what wasgoing to happen. You had a chance to claim what was yours three years ago!She hissed That was then. Amanda in a few minutes we will be landing and I want people tosee you smiling, not frowning. Can you try to be happy for the time being? heasked gently wiping the tears that had fallen.Amanda nodded. She hated getting emotional, but when he took control of her life,and started making decisions for her she lost it. She knew that once they landed shehad to be in control. She would soon be the wife of a prince.Good. Now please eat something, you have not eaten since we got on the plane,and I cant have my fianc fainting on me A small laugh escaped from her. She couldnt help it. When he was looking at herwith a gently smile tugged at his lips.I have to make a business call so eat, and be ready I have a feeling that we wont

be the only ones present when the plane lands. Raul announced leaning in andkissing her brow.Raul was not kidding when he said t hat they wouldnt be alone when they landed.


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They were greeted by reporters, and Raul had to hug Amanda to him to shield herfrom all the drama. Amanda didnt know how long that would last, but she hoped itwould end soon, she was not used to so many people wanting to know what wasgoing on, and yet being pulled against Rauls hard chest made her shiver.She had

never been that close to anyone. Being pulled against Raul, Amanda felt safe,something she had not felt in a long time. Making their way to the black vehicle afew yards away, she heard shouts and flashes of cameras.Prince Raul is it true that youre engaged?One reporter asked Who is this woman your highness?A man asked holding a microphone in frontof them.Is this woman your mistress?Another asked flashing at them.Alarm slammed into Amanda. These people thought she was his mistress? Did

Raul have a mistress? Panic and anger flared up if he did keep one she wouldabsolutely be mortified. She didnt want to be a burden to a man who had nofeel ing for her. She didnt think she could go through life knowing that the manshe loved was breaking their vows on all they held, and she would not put theirchildren through it. Children. The one thing she knew was a priority for him. Anheir. Raul needed an heir and she was to be the woman who provided him with one.Before she knew it they were rushed to the limo waiting for them and once insideAmanda couldnt help

glare at him in anger.They think I am your mistress It was not a question but a stateme nt.Let them think what they will, they dont know the facts And then be honest, do you have a mistress?Amanda asked wishing she didnt. If I do it is none of your concern He said harshly Amanda was shocked. She didnt expect to hear that. Raul was R uthless.I beg to differ! If I am to be your wife, I need honesty Raul not lies. If youregoing to be my husband I want honesty, because if its the other way around you

might as well let me get out of this car


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Chapter Three

Raul sat in the dining room quietly waiting for Amanda to show up. Glancingacross from hin, he noticed his Mother Beatrice looking at the time impatiently,and his father Carlos looking at him with a smile.Where is your bride to be Raul? Havent you tol d her that being late to dinner isnot acceptable?His father asked taking a sip of his drink. Raul tried to be polite, and not give his father his thought of mind.She will be here in a few minutes, I am trying to make things easier for her,considering since I came unannounced, and dragged her to a county she doesnt

know anything of. Just when Raul was about to go and get his fianc, the doors opend,and Amandawalked in, wearing a short strapless red dress, taking the breath from him. Withouthesitation he came up to her and bringing her hand up to his lips kissed herknuckles, sending sizzling fire rushing through Amanda.Gad you made it he whispered. Taking a seat across from Raul, Amanda realized that the king and queen satwatching her.

Glad to see you again child, I do admit you were just a child when we met Theking announcedAmanda smiled, she really had no idea of what to say to them, she had no clue, andshe didn't belong in this world of the rich and ruthless.An hour later Amanda sat listening to the conversation. Raul and his parentstreated her with respect, and tranquility, that much Amanda was thankful for.Rauls dark brown eyes sought hers, and she knew that that as they looked at eachother he was giving her the reassurance she needed to get through to night .

Amanda didnt know how long she sat at the table, but all she knew was that sheenjoyed the conversation that went on at the dinner table.Rauls parents seemedlike they knew about her nervousness and didnt bother asking questions about theupcoming wedding.Amanda, I do believe that you were just a month old when the betrothal contractwas signed, but I do have to say that you are quite beautiful my dear and Raul is a


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lucky man the king said smiling gently at her. Thank you, your majesty Amanda replied gently, a soft smile on her lips. Shedidnt want to think of the upcoming wedding. She didnt want to think of anythingat all. All she wanted was a chance at a normal life, and that was being taken away

from her.Raul looked at Amanda and sensing her distress, put her small hand in his, andsqueezed her hand for reassurance. He rose and helped Amanda to her feet.The king and queen stood up and came around the table and embraced Amanda.Amanda, we know that you have been having a hard time with your father, justknow you have us, and if you ever want to talk, we will be here to listen, after all,we are family The queen said smiling. Thank you, your majesty

Beatrice please You may call me Charles The king answered talking her and hand and giving hera reassuring smile.The walk to the bedchamber she and Raul shared was a quiet one. Amanda didntknow what top say. Truth be told she didn t want to say anything, because then shedidnt want to break the peace of harmony that hung around them. Amanda, I am proud of you. You didnt fall under my parents good graces, andyou treated them with respect and that is what the people need in a queen. That iswhat we all needRaul finished, taking her hand in his and bringing it to his lips. Raul I think that your parents are amazing, and there is absolutely no way that Icould disrespect them She finished in talking a deep breath as she went That I have saw, and come on, you need your rest and tomorrow we will be a longday he finished talking her by the arm and leading her into the massive

bedchamber they were to share.The next morning Amanda dressed in a simple blue cotton shirt and simple blue

jeans, alone with an A shaped pendent around her neck. The pendent that Raulhad given her on her twelfth birthday. They day her engagement was announced.I see youre up and about a deep voice said from behind her, making Amanda

jump out of fright.Yes, and dont sneak up on me like that, because of one these days I might hurtyou She said pulling a hand through her dark blond curls. Is that a threat? he murmured. Coming up behind her, and pulling her against hishard chest


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Yes she hissed tryi ng to escape him, but to only find that he tightened his gripembracing her in his warmth.Amanda, I would love to see you try he murmured in her ear, then capturing hermouth in a hard kiss.

She had just reached the bedroom when she was swung around to face Raul, whoseeyes were blazing, and just when she gasped as his stern mouth took that of hers.Amanda was shocked at just how much energy came from the scorching kiss, butcouldnt help but lean in and respond to the ecstasy of his kiss. She was weak, ohso weak that she didnt even feel when Raul pushed her closer to the large double

bed. Nor did she notice her top coming off until she felt cool air against her skin,making her shiver. He moved away from her and trailed small kisses down herneck. With one swift movement he removed her bra, and went down to remove her

jeans, and panities, leaving her starch naked beneath him. Finally he lifted himselfabove her, staring into her eyes, giving her one last chance to escape him. But shegave him none.Please she begged, making him look down at her passion filled eyes, and smilingdown at her.Say my name Cara he urged and she gasped as he stroked her entrance makingher arch against him instinctively but only to have him pull back.Raul please! she cr ied out moving against him in agonyOne I take you, there is no going back Amanda Rauls cold voice announcedlooking at her with harsh eyes.Amanda looked at him for a second before pulling his head down to hers. Shemade her decision, and sealed her fate.He urged into her and then froze at sharp cry of pain. He would have stopped, butAmandas nails dug into his skin, urging him to continue, and he had no will tostop thrusting into her welcome body, no urge to stop thrusting in to her repeadidlyin a rhythm as old as time that had them both sprawling higher and higher, until asound of intense pleasure until Amanda cried out his name in abundant joy.For minutes neither spoke, trying to catch their breath and Amanda was wonderingwhat on earth made her lose control. Raul sat up on one elbow and looked at herthoughtfully.You were a virgin the statement made Amanda jump in shock. y-yes she mumbled pulling herself up against the pillows Why didnt you tell me?He demanded harshly, looking at her w ith anger


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He was angry? She had just given him a precious gift, and he had thrown it back inher face. With a muffled cry she leapt from the bed, and ran for the bathroom. Howcould she have been so stupid and give herself to a man who didnt want anything to do with her, but all to do with her body.

Amanda, if you dont open this door right now, I will break It down! Go away! Within seconds the door cracked opend, and Raul stood in the doorway a dark lookon his face told her that he was going to get redemption for her disobedience.


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Chapter Four

The air thickened around them as Amanda looked at Raul with utter shock.

When he said he would break down the door, he wasnt kidding. Are you out of your mind? Whats wrong with you that you must break the

damn door down?Amanda hissed, raking her hand thought her hair. Shock andfear radiating around her. For all the years she loved the man, she didnt think hewould be so reprudent.

Amanda you shouldnt hide. And when I order you to do something you do it.Do you understand? Raul looked at her with his eyes blazing both with lust, andanger. For a moment she thought he looked handsome all in control and all, but assoon as it appeared it disappeared making Amanda wished she was a million milesaway from him. He radiated power. The look he gave showed who was in total andutter control, but then again, what did she expect? She was marrying a man with nokindness in his soul that was proven when he took her innocence brutally.

A soft curse escaped Raul, Raking a hand thought his dark black locks of hishair, he took her hand in his and lead her out to the bedroom before going back andgetting a wash cloth out.

w-what are you doing? sh e whispered as he knelt before her and wiped awaythe evidence of her innocence.

Amanda, I did warn you to think twice about making love with me. I didnt use protection, so you might already be with child. And by that I mean that there will

be no divorce .I am not letting my child be born a bastard. He softly said his shirtaround her shoulders.

Sock and silence enveloped the room. He thought that she would want a divorce?Did he think so little of her that he had to state his claim? She wanted to smackhim where he stood.

Taking his head in her hands, she looked into his eyes and smiled. He might not be a lost cause after all she thought.

Raul, when you gave me the chance to run I didnt. That should prove to youthat I am in this with you, after all, I am to be your wife in a few months.

Grazie amore miohe whispered before enfolding her in his strong arms andcovering them both with a sheet, before falling into a deep slumber.

The next few weeks went by fast, with the royal wedding fast approaching,Amanda didnt see much of Raul.Whenever she did see him it was either at dinner,or when he came to bed. She didnt want to think of her life as boring, but as thedays went by she did little but explore the palace, and look around town. When she


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did go out, she was always accompanied by bodyguards. Bodyguards, who wereinvisible to her eye.

Amanda was reading a book in the massive large library when Raul gracefullywalked in.

Go put on something nice, we are leaving in a half hour he announced walki ngout of the room.

Putting down the book she was reading, Amanda called after him. When comingannounced and then telling her to his bidding, she didnt feel like following hisorders. She was not one of his workers. Or would she be.

Where are we going? she asked, glaring at himOne of my friends is opening a night club. I want to be their when she opens it

up for the first time. Raul,this is kind of sudden. In the future will you please let me know ahead of

time? I have nothing to wear and besides, I will look out of character.Sheannounced looking down at her jeans and yellow tank top

Within seconds, Raul was in her face with a dark glare.Youre to be my wife and queen. If I go out and decide I want a night, you will

stand be my side. I want to sh ow off my fiance.I dont have to let you knowanything ahead of time. If I say do something, you do it. Now go upstairs and getdresses. Or I will take you out naked. He snapped, leaving the room cursing in hiswake.


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Chapter Five

Music blasted all around them, as Amanda walked into the packed dance club,

Awareness of Raul made Amanda remember who she was and who she was with.Looking around her, Amanda was shocked that all around her people werewatching with excitement and longing. For what? She thought. But then sheremembered that she was Rauls Fianc, of course eyes would be upon them.

A tall slender woman around her late thirties came running over to them, withher arms stretched out, and a happy smile on her face, as she looked at Raul, thiswomans eagerness to talk to Raul, made Amanda realize that she didnt belong inthis world of the rich and powerful. Her name being said made Amanda drop herthoughts abruptly.

Im sorry what? She asked, inhailing a deep breat h, hoping to not lookstupid.We are all wondering when your wedding is to take place. You seemed to get

him to the altar, no matter how many women have tried to do so the womansvoice faultered, as she looked at Raul with an apologetic look.

Analise - he hissed, putting his arm around Amandas shoulders in a protectivegesture.

We have yet to decide the date, but I do hope we choose one soon, for Imdying to have Raul all to myself. Amandas voice pitched an active.

Dont be silly Cara, we will get married as soon as it can be arranged Raulannounced looking at her with a smile that reached her toes.

Thats wonderful! The woman, Analise exclaimed. Putting her hands togetherwith pure joy.

Without notice, music blasted an active higher all around them, as men andwoman started to the dance floor, trying to move with the beat of the music.

Raul took her hand and led her to the dance floor, making Amandas heart pound in fear.

Raul I dont dance - she cried, trying to clutch out of his hand .Cara, just move with me, no one will notice, just follow my tempo, and let me

hold you he whispered in her ear. Hesetently, Amanda started moving with Raul, when was feeling conscious ofall that was going on around her.

Cara,just follow me, they wont see what were up too, lets show them thatwere just like any other couple, without the title,wealth,and power Raulwhispered, putting his hands on her hips, making Amanda feel like she was awoman for the first time in her life.


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Stop thinking; just le t the music drown out all of your thoughts.Amanda looked at the man in front of her with a small smile. If she lived to be

one hundred, she would always remember that Raul had exposed her to life. Hehad allowed her to live for the first time, and that she thought was the reason sheloved him so.


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Chapter Six

The next few weeks passed by pretty fast.Raul being away on business onlymade Amanda realize that she missed him all the more. But as the days passed by,Amanda started to feel nautious.Sickness clouded her mornings, and she didntknow what to do. Running to the bathroom she ran the water and rinsed her mouth.

My lord, Amanda all you alright? Raul asked running behind her and holdingher to him.

Go away, you dont need to see me like this She answered weakly, leaning herhead against his chest for support.

Youre sick, Im going to call a docto r, and you need to be in bed, I need you in

good health not sick. He announced turning her into his arms and carrying herinto their bedroom.

Laying her down, he looked at her. Her face was flushed, and sweat coveredher forhead, and from the look of it, she was barely awake.

An hour later holding Amandas hand, Raul looked at the doctor in shock. Thenews was shocking.Pregnent. Amanda was pregnant. Their child lay in her womb.

Are you ok your highness? Do you need some water the man asked looking athim with concern in his eyes.

I am alright.I need to know that my fianc will be the same She will be just fine, just make sure no alcohol, and no smoking. I think you

two will be just fine The man announced leaving the room. Looking at the man i n front of her, Amanda smiled. She couldnt have done it

without Raul by her side. He was supportive, and reassuring. Are you made at me? I dont know what I will do if your mad at me: He looked at her with hooded eyes.Cara mia, why would I be mad at you? You have given me a precious gift! We

are going to have a baby. And I promise you, he or she will be loved beyondcompare! He announced pulling her against him for a tight hug.

The weeks that followed made Amandas head spin.Preperations for thewedding were underway, along with doctors appointments, and morning sicknessthat just couldnt stop, and Amandas family flying in that same weekend, and withso much going on she was glad that Raul was their every step of the way.

Within a month of her pregnancy, she was on diet supplements, baby classes,and wedding gown fittings, which she feared she wouldnt fit for she knew that shewas about to grow. She wasnt sure that she was ready to be a mother, but she


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knew that she would get through it. She had to. She had to be strong for her child,and herself.


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Chapter 7

The next few weeks passed by and before Amanda new it, it was her wedding

day. The cathedral was overflowing with people. Television crew from all over theworld, not including Zahara ,lined up on the streets to see the royal wedding of thecentury talking place.

A maid came in carrying a tray of biscuits, and a cup of orange juice, makingAmanda realize that she was eating for two. She could not drink coffee or alcohol.

His highness wanted me to bring you a small snack before the ceremony. Wemust make s ure youre in good health The maid said smiling slightly.

Amanda chuckled. Ever since the news of the fact that she was pregenent.Raulwas taking measures to make sure that she was in good health, and that she has all

that she needed to stay in comfort.You can tell his highness That I can take care of myself and that I didnt needhim back then, and I certainly dont need him trying to run after my every need.

The maid looked startled. The news that Amanda was soon expecting Rauls heirhad spread fast. Within the first six weeks of pregnancy, she had gottencongratulations wherever she went.

Amanda didnt want to think about the future yet. She didnt want to give upher freedom, but for the sake of their child, who lay in her womb, she would not beselfish, and keep a child from its father. She was not cruel, and she certainlywouldnt do it to Raul.

An hour later, standing in front of a golden mirror, Amanda looked at herselfwith awe. Standing before her was a person she did not recognize. The woman infront of her wore jewels of a queen.Jewls that she felt she didnt have a right towear. They were passed down from Rauls family. She felt like a fraud, but then sheknew she was going to become a queen, she would need to get used to the fact thatshe was going to get lavished with such gifts from Raul,and others.

His highness wanted me to give you this a maid announced ,holding a whitesheet of paper out to her.

Taking the piece of paper, Amanda realized that she was scared. Not just

because of the future, but because of Raul.She never had a father around when shewas growing up, and she didnt want that for her baby. She wanted her child tohave all that she did nt when she was young. Looking back at the piece of paperfolded neatly in her hand, she

I want today to be special, not just for the baby, but for you. Im waiting, untilthe moment you are in my arms.


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Her breath caught in her throught.He was thinking of her even when she was outof his reach, and for a few moments, Amanda gained hope she needed to go downthe aisle .

The doors to the cathedral opened.amd before her, a long walk away,Rual stoodlooking at her with possession. All around her, people stood watching. Camerasrolled trying to record the most glorious wedding in years, and already she knewthat she was ready to be queen, but most importantly, she was ready to be his wife.

The walk down the red velvet carpet seemed like seconds as Amanda made herway down to Raul.She heart thumping the whole way.

The priest smiled at her warmly, raising his hands to let them go up the steps tothe waiting table.

Amanda looked at the ring on her hand. It was done. She was queen ofZahara,Rauls wife, and a leader, it all seemed like a dream ,but as long as she had

Raul by her side, she knew she would make it through.

Raul looked at Amanda for a long moment. He knew she knew she was scared,knew that she had no clue what to do with everyone staring at her. Taking hersmall hand in his, he kissed her palm.

Raul knew that he had to let her go for a bit. There were people to meet, adinner to serve, and a wedding night he couldnt wait to get started on. He wantedAmanda naked, lying on their bed begging for him. Begging for his kiss, but thatwould be in due course time, right now they had to get through the reception.

The night passed by fast. It was nearly midnight, and Raul stood watching at herfrom across the room the whole night. Butterflies made A mandas heart jump. Itwas time for them to let everyone else go home. They were the newlyweds, andwere allowed some privacy.

Youre the new wife I see, why you dont look like anything beautiful to me avenomous voice sneered behind her.

Amanda turned around annoyed. She knew what it was like to be hated, but sheleft all of that behind her. She made her own decisions, made her own life. She hadeven moved far away from her parents to just make sure it was real.

Yes, and youre the most obnoxious person here Josephine . Why dont you goand find someone else to torture? Amanda asked moving away from the womanwhose whole life was about making others feel awful.

Amanda, you may have found prince charming, but just wait. While youre on bed rest,Raul will be bedding me. Stephanies voice pinched an octive.


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Youre a slut Josephine. You may get almost everyman between your thighs, but dont and I mean DONT try to make a move on Raul - leaning in Amandawhispered in her ear.

I am Queen, and that means I have the power to get rid of you! Amandahissed. Turning around and going to search for her husband.


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Chapter 8

Your awake early,is it the baby? Raul questioned worriedly,laying his handdown on the swell of Amandas stomach.

no,i just couldnt sleep,and everything is alright.Im just trying to get used tothis- spreading her arms wide,Amanda twirled around in a circle.

An amused look on Rauls face,made her stop and stare at him.A faint smile lither eyes.She was not used to Raul being happy.For as long as she couldremember,Raul was always reserved.He knew better than to let his guard down,andlet his emotions in,but today,he was,and that was all that Amanda needed to knowthat the man in front of her was capable of loving her.

you have gone quiet on me cara,what is in that pretty little head of yours? you know what im thinking about is my husband.The man who is fierce in all

that he does,and loves his people,but why dont you take me to bed? I need youshe whispered

Raul laughed.Picking her up,he carried her up to their bed,where he mad passionate love to her,taking her to heaven,and beyond.

You need me Raul,you know you do!Josephine whined,taking a step closer than Raul was comfortable with.

I dont need you Josephine.You may open your legs for every man that comesyour way,but im not interested.I have a family to think abouthe announcedcoldly,moving toward his desk in the middle of the room,trying to get a safedistance from a woman who was greedy for money,and wanted nothing to do withanybody else but her own greedy self.

A dark,cold expression on Josephines face made Raul freeze.The damn womannever took no for an answer!

You would think of Amanda at a time like this? she is fat Raul!she and that bastard child of hers! me and you could get rid of them.They would be out of ourlives,and we would be free to be together.I would be your queen! Let me give youan heir my love,you dont need to be with a no -body She shrieked,almost lettingthe whole palace hear what was going on.

Anger and rage took Rual.He was not liking the talk from the woman in front ofhim.

you are talking about your Queen,and your own cousin.I am not going to repeatmyself again.If you dont get out of my office,i will personally throw you outmyself!

The desert was hot.Dryness and the sun shining bright made Amanda squint itwas a few weeks since the wedding took place,and Amanda was trying to go


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around and know a little more about the country which she was to run.The weeks passed by,and Amanda knew much about Zahara.

The vehicle moved under the cracked Arabian desert,and Amandas body guardswere on edge.Something was clearly wrong,but Amanda didnt know to talk tothem in Arabic to ask what was going on.

A loud noise made Amanda freeze in her seat.Gun shots.She was used to hearingthem all the time when she was little.She heard them all the time when someonewas trying to a person.She knew that all too well.Her own father was shot severaltimes during his business trips,and outside charities.

Is this the way to the Palace -she cut off,noticing that the car wasnt driven byher bodyguards,but by her very own cousin,who from the look of it was driving atfull speed down the arabian desert like a manick.

What the hell are you doing Josephine!have you lost your damn mind? Shut up Amanda!She screamed,hitting the breaks so fast that Amanda went

flying forward,her head hitting the front seat in a thud.Fear settled deep in Amandas stomach.Would she get out alive? Placing her

hand on her swollen belly,she prayed.As long as she lived,and breathed,she wouldnot allow anything to happen to her unborn child.


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Chapter 9

Raul looked at the man in front to him with wary eyes.Amanda has now been

missing for 36 hours,and he started to go crazy.This was not like her.Raul knewshe wouldn't go and do anything stupid,not while she carried Zaharas heir.

What do you have so far? he asked harshly,raking his hand through hisdisheveled hair.

Her highness was seen getting into a car with a woman -

What did that woman look like? he demanded glaring at the man

The man swallowed.looking at the ground in unison.

From the look of it,she looked tall,black hair,long tan legs,but from the look ofit,she looked mad,or something,but we cant be sure your highness,until we look atthe surveillance video-

You haven't looked at the dman video yet!Raul Yelled taking the mans suit inhis hands,and shaking him back and forth.

Im sorry -

I dont want to hear your damned oppology! Go and get the video! i WANTMY WIFE BACK!

Amanda woke with a hiss.Glancing around her,she noticede that she was in adark room.No windows,or sound emidated from anywhere.Fear overtook her.Wasshe dead? Was she buried alive?

Hello? she called out,sitting up on the floor. Silence met her. Placing her handon her abdomen,she cried out.Blood soaked her shirt.She smelled it,felt theslickness of the pool.


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Please,please tell me you didnt Josephine! She cried out,putting her face intoher hands.She couldnt lose Rauls child.Their baby was all that kept them together.

Shut up amanda!

Amanda sat up.She was not alone! For a moment she was thankful she wasntdead.

Let me out josephine! We need to talk about this! The iron door that Amanda didnt notice at the back wall,opened,spilling a light

from the hall.

I said shut up! Josephine yelled stomping into the room holding a gun in herhand.

Amanda gasped.Putting her hands into the air,she closed her eyes.This was nothappening.

Voces down the hall Made Josephine glared at the door in fear.

no damnit! I am not finished with you yet! You think you can be Queen . Youcant!

what the hell are you talking about! you bring me here because you're jealous?Josephine i didnt want this life! I never did.I was happy where i was far awayfrom this kind of life! But you know Dudy always comes first in this family,and icouldnt escape! Josey could,but we cant -!

You shouldnt have married Raul! Once your out of the way i will be themother of Rauls child,and we wont look back at the piece of filth in front of me!She yelled pointing the gun at Amanda

Amanda screamed.A gunshot echoed the room.Glancing at her cousin,she

realized that she was in a heap on the floor.

What -

Amanda! Rauls voice surrounded her as she collapsed.Black surroundedher.Voices faded,blocking out all life.


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Chapter 10

Amanda woke up with a gasp. Pain radiated through her, causing her to change position on the bed, but only to find it impossible by the IV restricting her fromfurther movement.

OW! she whined, laying down in the bed, noticing that Raul fast asleep in achair across the room.

As if her heard her cry,Raul jumped up and ran to her side.For a momentAmanda noticed that his hair was disheveled,and a small beard showed.

You awake cara mia! he said breathlessly,crushing her to him in such force

that Amanda had to keep back a cry of pain.She loved having him near,and if itmeant sustaining a bit of pain then so be it.

What,how long have i been in the hospital?

A few days,cara,please for your sake,and our childs,please rest.You both have been through so much! he pleaded,leaning down,and placing a soft kiss on herforehead.

the baby -

Is fine,some tests were done,you both are in good health.I thought i had lost the both of you- he cut off closing his eyes in anguish.

We are ok,but for a moment when the gun was pointed at me,i thought that wasthe end-

No,my love! dont think like that!

Raul -

No.Let me talk Raul said,putting his hand up. I love you.I belive i alwayshave.I didn't want anyone to see the worst part of me that was damaged.Whe n myfather told me i had to marry,i freaked out.I dont do relationships,and just when ithought i was safe in my own little world,you came in and knocked all of my wallsdown.when i saw Josephine holding that gun,ready to shoot.I felt fear.Actual


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fear.Fear of losing you.I love you Amanda.I have been a real fool,and i beg you toforgive me.Let me show you how much i love and care about you.

I know baby,i know.

Love and admiration shined in both Rauls and Amandas eyes.Fear was longgone,and only happiness Remained.

Josephine was taken to a mental facility,in Baraka,where lived out her days untilher death a few years later.

Amanda gave birth to a Girl Samata.The girl had long dark black hair,and browneyes,taking after her father.

Amanda and Raul had 3 children.Samata the eldest.and the heir ofZahara.Luscious,and Zaham.

Documents

A Bride at the Prince's Command