Lion Head Mesa flowers before men,

for so many reasons, Toula trusted the made prince before her. but as he spoke, the greatest one came to the fore. he did not move or work for himself, but for Akashingo. just as she herself did. Toula had no desire to break from tradition, nor to dishonor and offend the Gods. 
I shall, she breathed. one must be worthy of Akashingo, the greatest of jewels. and it was time she created bonds that might come to grow to something more. the man was charming, certainly. 
and more would come, too. she must see and feel with her heart who was right for the task.
but then there was the happiness of Senmut to consider, and she moved to what she hoped might be a lighter conversation. have you loved any other than the Gods? as one might love someone they wish to wed? her ears pressed forward as she listened. she could not speak with her mother, or father, or sister, or brother on such things—they were all gone. 
but he was as family to her, and she loved him as surely as she had (and still did) them.