Golden Bird

In retrospect, Rashid realized he should have kept a closer eye on his uncle's activities, but he had had too many other things to deal with. The only reason he'd planted that spy in Abdulah's employ was because he'd had hints from friends that the F.B.I. was investigating rumors of a prostitution and drug ring connection to the Golden Sands.

Knowing his uncle's nature, Rashid was not so foolish as to think that Abdulah was not capable of such crimes, but this -to orchestrate the kidnapping of an American citizen in exchange for a gambling debt-was unspeakable. It was clear that he would have to keep a much closer eye on his uncle, but in the meantime, what was he going to do now that he had discovered this?

He watched as the hulk that was his uncle waddled down the steps leading from the oval portal of the jet. Behind Abdulah came two men carrying a stretcher with the girl strapped in place. Once the entourage reached the ground, Rashid walked slowly towards them. He saw the look on Abdulah's face change from delighted anticipation, to dread, as the fat man spotted his nephew.

"So, Uncle, what cargo do you bring us from America?" asked Rashid, looking past his uncle to the girl on the stretcher. He was immediately struck by her golden beauty. He turned to his uncle, fists clenched at his side. "How could you become involved in such a thing? You shame your family ... and your country!"

Abdulah shifted his eyes away from the violence, barely contained, in Rashid's.

"What can I say, Nephew? I am caught. It will not happen again. I am certain there can be no possible connection to me or our family, to the disappearance of the girl. There is no need for you to concern yourself with this matter any longer."

"Ah, that is where you are wrong, Uncle. It has become my concern. I cannot stand by and let you use an innocent girl for your pleasure and profit. You will have to limit yourself to willing partners to satisfy your perverse sexual needs from now on."

Abdulah defiantly met his nephew's eyes. "But, Nephew, this way is much more exciting. Is it not?"

"Do not assume we have any similarities in that respect, Uncle. If you cannot find willing partners, then you will do without." He turned to the stretcher bearers. "Make sure she arrives safely at the Palace."

"But, Nephew, there is no need," protested Abdulah, "I have made arrangements at my own house for the girl."