'Eyes of Jade' Sneak Peek

A sneak peek from my Egyptian-themed book.

Masud was inside, instructing workers what to take out of certain boxes and what to do with them.  He looked up as Michael entered and said something to the workers, pointing to the far wall of the tent before approaching Michael.

     “Michael,” he patted Michael’s shoulder, “How are you after yesterday?”

     “Fine, thank you.”

     “Good…” Masud stroked his beard, “Some of the other workers… well, after what happened to Hemon, they are… afraid that it was because of the curse.  Do… do you believe in curses, Michael?”

     “No, I do not,” Michael scratched the back of his head, “What happened to Hemon was the result of a trap, a false floor.”

     Masud chuckled dryly, “You are either very smart or very foolish.  You see, some of the workers think that the… punishment was meant for you, since you broke the seal on the tomb.  And… for a man who doesn’t believe in curses, you are wearing the proper amulet,” he pointed to the Ankh necklace around Michael’s neck.

     “Oh, this,” Michael toyed with the Ankh between his fingers, “I’ve had it forever.”

     “And you know what it means?” Masud’s eyes met his.

     “Yes, of course,” Michael looked down at the charm between his fingers, “It’s the symbol of life, eternal life specifically.  And also a talisman for protection.”

     “You’re smarter than you look,” Masud harrumphed.

     Michael smirked at Masud’s backhanded compliment, “What about you; do you believe in curses?”

     Masud stood in silence a moment, his back to him.  He turned to face Michael, and when he did speak, his voice was low and solemn, “During your time here, I would suggest you not take off that amulet.”  He abruptly returned to the workers unloading equipment.