Rifleman Abubakar Ibn Abbas was duly fetched and was indeed much more sober, not least because the identity of the Emir had been confirmed and he was ...n mortal fear. In ten years as a soldier he had annoyed most of his superiors at one time or another, but never an Emir accompanied by a General."What were you doing last night?" asked the Emir.After a moment's thought the miscreant decided that a well varnished version of the truth would serve him best."I went to the approved 'Other Ranks'. ”“Don’t worry, you’re both going to learn to pay attention to what I want and how I want it. Laura, think carefully about how you could do better. Pet, for your part, I thought you were better trained than that?”“I am Sir. Please remind me though.”“Laura, hand me that rope.” She handed it over and then at my gesture, knelt in front of Pet. I took the rope and loosely tied Pet’s hands behind her back looping the rope through the ring on the collar. I adjusted my legs to better balance Pet across. ‘Will she no fergive ye?’ Sloan asked him, wondering if it would affect the way things are, if she did. ‘After my son was killed, I left Tioram and I’ve no been back or had word wi’ her. I fear I’ve wounded her heart and it can’ne be repaired.’ his thoughts bringing a sadness to his voice. ‘Ye’ll ne’er know, until ye go and face her again, Laird Braedon. She may ha’e changed her mind or she may ha’e not. One thing’s fer certain, ye’ll ne’er know until ye see her and ask her.’ Sloan told him,. "----------My whole body was shaking as sat in my car debating whether to drive home, or around the corner to that blue door.The slutty side of me was telling me that I'd never forgive myself if I didn't follow this through. Nothing was going to immediately happen, of course, but why not have a cup of coffee with the boy and see where it led?The other side—the sensible side—screamed that I should get out of there as quickly as I could, sprawl out on my bed, and use both of my favorite vibes.