Scoundrel's Honor (Russian Connection 3)

“It is possible.”

“Or perhaps it is an unknown adversary who is manipulating matters from the shadows.” Rajih smiled. “You seem to have a talent for creating enemies.”

Josef set aside his empty glass. “We can discover the identity of the enemy once we are away from this place.”

Dimitri paused before giving a discontented nod. “How long before you can convince the pasha to release us?” he demanded of the caliph.

“There is nothing to be done until Czar Alexander has responded to the pasha’s request for assistance.”

Dimitri’s brows snapped together. “Impossible.”

“There is no choice.”

“Then I will find my own means of disappearing.”

“Do not be a fool, Tipova.” Rajih deliberately lifted his sword, his warning unmistakable. “If your servants are caught attempting to slip into the citadel they wi

ll be put to death immediately. Just as you will be killed if you are caught trying to escape.”

“You cannot expect me to remain trapped here like a rat….”

Dimitri bit off his words as he was struck by a haunting reality.

Trapped.

Yes, that was precisely what he was.

Trapped and all but helpless.

If he were the mysterious enemy why would he want his prey trapped and helpless?

Rajih stepped toward him, regarding him with a suspicious expression.

“What were you saying?”

Dimitri forced a grim smile to his lips. “Very well.”

Josef swore, reaching to grasp Dimitri’s arm in a punishing grip.

“Tipova—”

“Josef, it is obvious we must wait for Alexander Pavlovich to demand our release.” He overrode his servant’s protest.

Josef glared at him with a sour disapproval. “You are assuming he won’t tell the pasha to have us fed to his tiger.”

“Tiger?” the caliph asked in confusion.

“It is of no importance,” Dimitri muttered, swallowing his pride as he contemplated the most pertinent dangers of his situation. “I must demand a favor of you, Rajih.”

Dimitri had to appreciate the manner in which the man hesitated before offering his promise. He might never be friends with Rajih, but he did respect his integrity.

“That depends upon the favor,” he admitted.

“I assure you that it does not include storming the citadel.”

Rajih heaved a resigned sigh. “I am listening.”

“I wish for Emma to be returned to the safety of St. Petersburg.”