Author´s Notes: This is my first fanfic in ages. English is not my first language so I apologize for the grammatical errors. Takes place after the sandstorm scene.

The dynamics between them have changed. Yes, they still argue about the most trivial things, but she can feel that his tone is not the same. Now he is concerned about her being cold or tired, and offers her the best blanket, the softest piece of bread or the warmest spot near the fire without her having to question his honour.

She doesn´t know what to think of that. Lust she was used to, seeing it in a lot of men who looked at her. But tenderness… That is a different matter. And after the sandstorm that is the main emotion in his eyes when his blue gaze falls upon her. It has been such a long time since someone stared at her in such manner. She almost had forgotten what it feels like to be cherished just for being Tamina and not because she was a ruler, a princess and a priestess.

It´s both frightening and exhilarating, the way her heartbeat fastens with every show of kindness, how her hands sweat and she has to fight the burn in her cheeks every time he gives her that lopsided grin she found so irritating and that now has become nothing but disarming. In the middle of the chaos of these last days his smile is both a source of comfort and turmoil for her.

Lying on her stomach and gazing at the moonless sky she can´t stop her mind from wandering. Before dying his father intended to marry them. She should be thinking about the protection of the dagger and the safety of her people… Her thoughts have a life of their own instead and can´t help but focusing on the rogue prince.

How would it be to have his hands roaming her skin? What being kissed by his lips would feel like? The memory of rubbing her body against his in their first night as fugitives brings her embarrassment, curiosity and frustration. How would it feel to be so close to him again without the dagger as an excuse?

Sleep is slowly numbing her but she feels him adjusting his makeshift bed next to her, his body emanating more heat than the half-dead ashes of the camp fire.

She doesn´t know what tomorrow will bring. But for now she can pretend that is sleep or the coldness of the night what makes her turn around and snuggle towards him.