Adira’s heels clicked loudly against the large, wooden planks of the pier, announcing her arrival to all the fishermen, boaters, and to her guests who were still boarding the Adira. If the sound of her Jimmy Choo stilettoes did not draw attention to her presence, the large entourage of security certainly would. Nothing about Adira’s life was modest, no matter how much she often wished it to be so. And, watching her guests, she had to smile as their appearance told of the more tolerant culture within Dubai. Twenty years earlier, all you’d have seen would be a sea of black on the women and white robes on the men. Today, as she had reminded her father only the evening before, times had changed. While some of her older relatives still chose to wear the traditional clothing, the younger women were not only dressed in their favorite couture, but their ensembles weren’t covered by any robes.

She was wearing Vera Wang, the dress of red silk clinging to her breasts before flaring into dozens of pleats that brushed against her legs with every step. The hem swirled a few inches below her knees. Diamond and ruby earrings swung from her earlobes, a matching bracelet encircled her wrist. A large blood-red stone nestled in the hollow of her throat, the heart-shaped ruby a gift from her father on her eighteenth birthday. Her ebony hair had been coiffed into a waterfall braid that fell over her shoulder, diamond clips tucked throughout, keeping the tendrils in place.

Her father wore a black Armani tuxedo, the Rolex on his wrist and diamond cuff links sparkling whenever the lights caught them. Seeing the variety of colors as they walked down the pier, some pale and others in deep jewel tones, she was reminded of the colorful fish that she’d seen at last night’s dinner. The men either wore the khandouras or designer suits… all she saw reminded her that the world she lived in was one of luxury and decadence.

“I hope you aren’t too disappointed that your grandfather couldn’t make it tonight,” Adira’s father said as they walked side by side toward the multi-story yacht that loomed over the much smaller boats all around. The stark white color was broken only by the rich hues of intricately designed teak railings. There would be no doubt to anyone who glanced at the magnificence of its construction, that this boat truly was the Queen of the sea.

“I spoke with him earlier,” her father continued, “and he wanted me to send you his love.”

She hadn’t realized her grandfather wouldn’t be able to make the graduation party until they were leaving the house and she learned he’d apparently been called away to attend some meeting in Africa. Still, she nodded at the statement, hoping the sting of disappointment didn’t show on her face. “I understand,” Adira said sweetly, a tone and a statement she had long practiced and mastered. Business always came first with the Nazars. It wasn’t something Adira resented, or at least, not anymore. She had long ago accepted that it was the way of life… her life.

As they neared the Adira, Fadil sighed. “You know, I really wanted to give you a far larger party. I’d already given the event planner the invitation list—”

“And how many names were on that list?” Adira interrupted, smiling, “five hundred, a thousand?”

“Of course not,” Fadil said and then chuckled. “I was extremely selective in choosing only three hundred and fifty, and I’m sure all would have accepted.”

Adira had absolutely no doubt that not a soul would have declined anything that was offered by her father. His view and her view of an intimate affair differed greatly. She’d attended hundreds of his parties that included his many business associates and complete strangers, and yet his concession to her request to keep this celebration intimate touched her greatly. Looking up at the yacht again, she squeezed his arm and her soft laugh rang out.

“What’s so funny?”

“That is a lovely gesture, but I’m afraid even the Adira wouldn’t hold that many of your friends. We’d need a cruise ship, but thank you. I know it wasn’t exactly what you wanted, but I truly appreciate that tonight will be spent with just family and close friends. Thank you for your restraint.”

He patted her hand and nodded, his chuckle following hers.

The entire crew of the ship, including the captain, stood at attention in a single line as they walked past to enter the largest of all the rooms on the boat. The size rivaled many a grand ballroom, as did the elegance. Not one, but three chandeliers twinkled from above, casting a warm light over the guests as they milled around, sipping from flutes of champagne. Large banquet tables draped in fine linen were overflowing with trays of lobster, oysters, crab and every other delicacy from the sea. Carved ice sculptures blended with all the expertly placed food to create a scene of pure artistry. Waiters walked around with enticing hors d'oeuvres that seemed too beautiful to even touch, but Adira had no doubt were absolutely delicious. Flower arrangements burst from every corner of the room, adding not only their beauty but their fragrance to the setting of complete grandeur.

A waiter in a tuxedo approached them, offering them both glasses of champagne. Taking a glass, Adira turned to her father. “Thank you. Everything is so lovely.” And it truly was. Her father never cut a single corner when it came to his daughter. All of the opulence really wasn’t necessary for Adira, but she realized that it was a way her father showed his love and devotion.

They stood in place as all the guests took turns approaching them and formally greeting their hosts. Adira usually hated this part of the party and yet found it much pleasanter tonight as most were her friends and relatives. She didn’t begrudge the few business associates her father had invited, accepting their compliments as to how beautiful she looked, or gave the expected platitudes about the decorations and the food. None of these men actually congratulated her for the reason of the party. The only ones who expressed their joy for her graduation from the highest level of schooling were her family members.

Adira repositioned her feet as she was forced to regain her balance when the engines rumbled beneath her and the yacht took off to sea. Despite the stability such a large vessel provided, it often took her a while to get her sea legs.

It would be a short voyage, as they were anchoring just a bit offshore. The lights of Dubai would be their backdrop on the port side, while the wide open Persian Gulf would be their view if looking starboard. A voice drew her attention back to the receiving line. Yes, she might be the guest of honor, but she still had duties to attend to.

“Your father always throws the most lavish of all parties, even if given for such an inconsequential reason,” her great-aunt said as she reached for Adira’s hand in greeting. Her perfume overpowered Adira’s senses, and though her denigration of her accomplishments cut a bit, Adira managed to politely nod and smile as the woman continued. “I do, however, look forward to an invitation to your wedding. That would be a celebration worth attending. I am sure that many are in line ready to take your hand in marriage.”

Adira swallowed back any negative retort and once again smiled. “Thank you, Aunt Durar, and thank you for coming.” She looked to her right at the next guest, silently ending the discussion and moving the greeting progression along.

The topic of marriage, or what was the next step in life, nearly sucked the life from her very soul. There would not be an arranged marriage as long as she breathed the salty Dubai air as a free woman. Her father had given up on broaching this subject years ago and allowed her to focus on her studies instead. But now that she had received her diploma, the pressure would surely return. What was next? What would she do with her time? Those questions haunted her, for she had absolutely no plan at all.

When the final guest approached with a beaming smile, Adira broke formal protocol and reached out, wrapping her arms around the woman standing before her. “Farrah! I am so happy you came.” Adira almost squealed as she hugged her cousin tight. “You look so beautiful.”

Farrah broke from the embrace with a small laugh. “Not as gorgeous as you, cousin, but I do admit, it is nice to be able to wear a bit of fashion.”

Adira smiled and nodded, understanding that just as she had the evening before, Farrah had dressed to appease her parents. While she was wearing a dress of emerald green, her shiny black hair was covered with a floral print Hermès scarf. Reaching up, Adira adjusted the scarf slightly since their embrace had misplaced it a bit, and gave her another hug. “Where are your parents?”

“They are outside on the deck, watching the sun set as we take off. It’s Mother’s favorite part of these events.”

“I’ve missed you so much! I haven’t seen you for months.” Adira had grown up with Farrah. Some of her fondest memories were of them running along the estate, hiding behind the palms from security who were doing a poor job keeping their eyes on them at all times.

“Well that is because someone here has decided to put studies before her poor forgotten cousin,” Farrah teased.

“Never again. I’m home and plan to see you much more often now.”

“I’m going to hold you to that,” Farrah said, turning to give her uncle a hug. “It’s a beautiful party, Uncle Fadil.”

“More beautiful with your arrival, my dear,” Fadil said, returning her hug before turning to his daughter. “Come, dance with me.” Adira smiled and took his arm and allowed him to lead her to the middle of the salon. An orchestra at one end began to play as her father gathered her into his arms. They waltzed around the floor as their guests smiled and watched. When the song ended, her father bent and kissed her cheek. “Adira, I am so very proud of your accomplishments, and I am very honored to be your father.” His words filled her with a sense of love far larger than the opulent party had.

“I am blessed to be your daughter,” she said, squeezing his hand before he passed her to an uncle and others joined them on the dance floor. Adira was swept from person to person, accepting more personal accolades, and knew she’d cherish this day for the rest of her life. Once she’d been twirled around the floor by every male relative, she was a bit breathless and feeling slightly nauseated. Returning to where her father stood and without speaking, she softly placed her hand on his arm to pull his attention from the man he was talking with. When he turned to look at her, she said, “I’m going outside. I need some air.”

“Of course, my dear, but take someone with you. I’ve got a bit of business to attend to as well. Something I promised your grandfather. We’ll meet back here a bit later to enjoy another dance.”

She smiled, knowing that her father always worked a room and seldom stopped to actually eat or enjoy the parties that he threw. The fact that he’d already danced with her and just promised her another made her feel special… loved.

“I’d enjoy that,” Adira said, not the least bit surprised to hear he was taking the opportunity to conduct business. Spying her cousin, she grabbed Farrah’s hand.

“Want to come with me? Let’s go outside and enjoy the fresh air.”

“I’d love to,” Farrah said. The two walked towards the door. “Oh, my, that is just gorgeous!”

Adira followed her cousin’s gaze to see a cake on the dessert table that had her name written on it with small diamonds. Adira sparkled on the blanket of smooth chocolate. Once again, her father had spared no expense. “Father,” she called over her shoulder with a smile, stopping him a moment before he disappeared through a different doorway. When he turned again and made eye contact, she said, “Thank you. I love you.”

Smiling proudly with a twinkle in his eye, he mouthed the words, I love you too, and turned his attention back to the men accompanying him, all of them members of their extended family.

“Where are they going?” Farrah asked.

“You know them,” Adira said with a smile, “have they ever once simply attended a party for the fun of it?”

Farrah laughed and shook her head. “Not that I recall.”

“Right, so why would they tonight?” With her own laugh, Adira nodded at the man who slid the door open for her.

“On behalf of the crew, I’d like to congratulate you on your degree, Miss Nazar.”

“Thank you,” Adira said, recognizing the man as the Chief Steward who had served on the Adira for years. “I appreciate all the work you and the others have done. The boat looks even more beautiful than ever.”

He smiled and nodded. “It was our pleasure, and very thoughtful of your father to provide not only flowers below deck but a case of champagne and a feast for the crew as well. Enjoy your evening.”

“Thank you, you too,” Adira said, stepping through the door, Farrah following. When the cool ocean air hit Adira’s face, she gave a sigh of relief. Her stomach was still uneasy, but she already felt so much better.

The sea had very few waves, thank goodness, and the weather was perfect for a night out on the yacht. Once the glass slid closed behind them, she could barely hear the orchestra music playing. There were large arrangements of flowers outside the door and along the railing. The scent, stirred by the moving breeze, overcame the briny aroma of the salty air. Looking over her shoulder, she pulled Farrah around the corner and bent down and removed her shoes.

“Ahh, so much better,” she moaned in pleasure, slipping the straps over her hand. Good thing her aunt couldn’t see her now but Adira meant the gesture to both keep from damaging the wooden decks and, well, she enjoyed the freedom of going barefoot while dressed to the nines. With a soft giggle, Farrah followed suit and with matching smiles, the two climbed one set of stairs, waving at a few people milling about before ascending yet another set to a smaller upper level.

Skirting around a spa, they moved towards the bow of the boat. Thick navy blue cushions lined a small seating area, gold-tone throw pillows and a Persian rug giving the illusion that they were in a formal parlor instead of on a yacht’s sundeck. Even here there was a stand holding a bottle of champagne chilling in a crystal bucket of ice between two additional urns of flowers. After taking a moment to refill their glasses, they walked closer to the rail.

Farrah moved over to a lounger and sat down, extending her long legs before her. She took a sip of her champagne and lifted her eyes for a moment, looking up at the evening sky as the stars began to appear. “So pretty,” she murmured. “I really love the sea.”

“I do as well. One day soon, we’ll have a girls’ day and actually use the spa,” Adira said, walking over to the railing and resting her arm on it, preferring to stand and stabilize her inner core in hopes of fighting off the sickness. She looked down and watched people mingle on the lower decks, nibbling on food, continuing to drink, and enjoying the luxuries of life. She looked forward, watching the ship cut through the crystal clear waters like a knife. Foam roiled on either side of the bow, and she smiled at the sight of a pair of dolphins racing alongside the yacht as the captain maneuvered them out into the gulf. Seagulls squawked up above as they flew to refuge as the night took over the sky. She loved the way the stars looked on the open sea, and knew they would look even brighter as there was no moon to steal the brilliance of their full display. As the sun finally dipped beneath the flat line of the sea, the daylight slowly conquered, the yacht began to slow and then stopped. Adira knew that crew members were unobtrusively lowering the anchor before slipping out of sight below deck. She smiled, hoping the crew would enjoy the evening as much as she was.

“It would be fun,” Farrah agreed. “I saw Husna here before you arrived. I’m sure she’d love to come.”

Adira perked up at hearing another one of her favorite cousins was also on the boat. Turning back, she asked, “Where is she?”

Farrah shrugged. “You know Husna. She has been on the hunt for a wealthy man for a while now. Tonight is prime real estate for her. I’m sure she at least was quite pleased to see that your father invited a few business associates as well as family.”

“Ah yes. Well, my dear cousin, we are becoming old maids in the eyes of our family after all. Aunt Durar has already hinted that the next invitation she better receive is to attend a wedding. Let’s hope Husna catches her man,” Adira teased as she raised the glass to her lips to conceal her smirk. “Or perhaps you’ve got your eyes on someone?”

“Hardly,” Farrah huffed. “My father actually wants me to marry the son of his financial advisor. The man is short, and he has really hairy knuckles.”

Adira laughed loudly. “What kind of good Arab girl are you? Not prepared to sacrifice to please our dear Auntie Durar? You could always wax the knuckles.”

Farrah rolled her eyes. “Sounds like heavenly bliss. A marriage every girl dreams of.”

Adira chuckled, turned her back to Farrah, and stared out at the sea, resting her forearms on the cool railing. “I have to admit, Farrah. I feel a bit lost. I’m not sure what my next step is.”

“Horse breeding? You love the horses,” Farrah suggested behind her.

She shrugged, still not taking her eyes off the dark water below. “Possibly. I mean, I do like horses, but do I stay here forever? Always hosting by my father’s side? Always pretending I don’t know what truly is going on?”

“What do you mean? What is truly going on?” Farrah asked.

Adira’s heart skipped when she realized what she’d just nearly divulged. Although Farrah’s father was just as guilty of the dubious enterprises her father and grandfather were involved in, Farrah’s parents obviously did a much better job shielding her from the harsh realities that indeed the entire family walked in the depths of the underground. Not only walked in it, but damn near ruled it.

“Nothing,” she said casually. “I simply am tired of the unknown.”

“Well,” Farrah said, starting to giggle. “The short man with hairy knuckles is always available if you want.” Both women laughed hard, blocking out all the sounds of celebration from inside. “Seriously though, Dr. Adira Nazar, you’ve accomplished a great thing. You can use your education in so many ways. As our country changes, there will be many who can use your skills… even if you are a female.”

Though both young women laughed, both knew that no matter how educated, how privileged, how wealthy, their very sex often was a strike against them. Before she could respond, an odd noise came from down below that pulled Adira’s attention, and stopped her mid laugh. It was the movement, along with the sound of a motor, that pulled her vision to a small boat driving away from the yacht at high speed. Adira tried to make out who was in it, wondering why it was running without lights and which of her guests was being rushed to shore… the boat’s speed seemed excessive, the bow out of the water and she hoped no one had become ill.

“What are you looking at?” Farrah asked.

“Someone is leaving the yacht in a hurry,” she answered. “I hope everything is all right.”

“I’m sure everything is fine. Let’s go back in and get something to eat. I plan on drinking a great deal of this lovely champagne but need to keep my wits about me. Remember, I need to find a man soon, or who knows what hairy beast my father will come up with next.” Farrah stood and then stumbled a bit. “Maybe I don’t need any more champagne… whoa, look at the spa!”

Adira turned to look towards the spa, watching as the surface moved, waves slapping against the sides and spilling over. “What on earth?” And then…

A sound so loud the deck beneath her shook.

Flashes of light so bright they seemed to sear her eyes.

Glass shattering.

Fire. Intense heat.

A force so strong her body flew back over the railing to the deadly sea below.

The air knocked from her body.

Sharp ringing in her ears.

A watery embrace as she disappeared beneath the surface.

Darkness.