Scandalous Deception (Russian Connection 1)

Herrick dipped his head. “He is safe and well-guarded.”

“I will not deny I am relieved that you returned to St. Petersburg rather than remaining with Alexander Pavlovich. I fear you are more greatly needed here.”

“The treaty was signed and the formalities observed. I had no reason to linger. In truth, I sensed that there was trouble stirring.”

Edmond snorted. “A pity that the Emperor did not share your urgency. Although I would not wish him in danger, his place is here among his people. Perhaps then, his enemies would not grow so bold.”

Herrick instinctively smoothed his expression. He might trust Edmond with his life, but he would never reveal his most private opinion of his Czar. His loyalty was as constant and unshakable as the vast pyramids of Egypt.

“We both know that the crown sits uneasily upon Alexander’s head. He finds peace in his travels.”

Edmond shook his head in a gesture of frustration. It was not that he did not sympathize with the Emperor. Alexander Pavlovich had sought reform only to be undermined by his own people, and now, when his rule had returned to the rigid repression of his forefathers, there had been the constant threat of revolt. No matter what his efforts, he could not seem to win the love of his citizens.

Still, he possessed a duty he could not continue to ignore.

“His people have need of him.”

Herrick held up a thin hand, his expression revealing a hint of sadness.

“We all do the best that we can, my friend. It is all we can ask.”

Edmond wanted to protest. Alexander Pavlovich needed to do more than just his best. He needed to rise from the ashes of his insecurities and become the strong, decisive leader that Russia so desperately needed.

“I will speak with my associates,” he said, swallowing his desire to demand that Herrick send for the Emperor. Alexander would return to St. Petersburg only when it suited him. “Perhaps they have information.”

“You will let me know.”

“Of course.”

Herrick leaned to glance out the frosty window, giving a hand signal toward the nearby outrider that resulted in the sleigh turning back toward the city.

For a time, the gentlemen rode in silence, both consumed with their dark thoughts. Then, with an obvious effort, Herrick attempted to lighten the atmosphere.

“So tell me of this woman.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Boris has told me that you have brought an English companion to Russia.”

“He should learn to keep his mouth shut.”

“Is she beautiful?” Herrick clicked his tongue. “A foolish question. Of course she is beautiful. When have you ever chosen a woman who is not exquisite?”

“She is beautiful, but for once it would not matter. My fascination has nothing to do with the curve of her cheek or the delectable line of her lips.”

Herrick gave a startled cough. “A dangerous admission, my friend.”

It was dangerous, of course. When a gentleman began to discuss a woman as something other than a tasty morsel to be enjoyed and forgotten, it usually meant that he was about to do something incredibly stupid.

“Denial has done little good,” he grudgingly admitted. “I have hopes that proximity will prove more effective.”

“You believe you will grow weary of her companionship?”

“It is the inevitable conclusion of all affairs.”

Herrick tilted his head to one side, his expression curious. “And if you do not grow weary?”

Edmond ignored the mocking voice in the back of his mind that assured him that he had been well and truly bested by a slip of a girl who could alter his entire mood by nothing more than a smile.