As Ajaman fastened his scabbard belt, Ruha kissed him. "How much supper should I bring?"

"What you can carry easily," Ajaman answered, still whispering.

Outside the tent, the deep-voiced man called, "Ajaman, quit your bed games and come to the watch!" The exhortation brought laughter from a dozen throats.

"How many men does it require to fetch you, my husband?" the bride asked, irritated by the intrusive gathering outside the khreima. Though Ruha had addressed Ajaman, she had intentionally spoken loud enough for the men to hear. They tried to pretend they had not heard her complaint, as it was forbidden for a bride in purdah to speak directly to any man except her husband. Despite their efforts, several men could not stifle snickers.

Ajaman raised an eyebrow, but did not seem upset by Ruha's audacity. He covered the appearance of impropriety by repeating her question, "My wife wishes to know how many men are required to summon me."

"More than we have brought, apparently," the deep-voiced man returned. "To keep you from your duty, she must truly be as beautiful as her father promised."

Ruha smiled at the man's comment. Her father had also promised her that she would be pleased with Ajaman. So far, it appeared that her sire was as skilled at matchmaking as at camel herding.

Picking up his quiver and bow, Ajaman beamed at his new bride. "Indeed, my wife's father comes from an honorable family," he called. "It is a pity you cannot see how well he keeps his promises, Dawasir. My words cannot describe her."

Ruha's smile vanished with her husband's words. The comment made her feel as if she were on display. Like all Bedine women, Ruha reserved her beauty for her husband's eyes alone. Outside her home, the curves of her firm body would always remain concealed beneath her baggy aba. A shawl and veil would hide her sable hair, her proud nose, and the strong features of her statuesque face. All Dawasir or his comrades would ever see of Ruha were her sultry eyes and, perhaps, the crossed hash marks tattooed on her regal cheeks. She could not help feeling betrayed by Ajaman's boasting.