Ch. 1Liliya quietly opened the door to her young mistress's bedroom to find Aleksandra still asleep. Normally she would have left her to sleep in, but today was an important day."You must wake, Aleksandra," Liliya called to her. When she remained sleeping Liliya walked to the window and opened the thick curtains keeping the sunlight out. The sunlight streamed in and Aleksandra rolled lazily on to her back."I'm awake," she said, aggravated."Good. How are you feeling?" Liliya asked."Like I could use more sleep.""I meant health wise.""I know what you meant. I'm feeling good this morning.""That is good dear, for your father has been speaking to some men in town and he believes he may have found you a husband!" she said excitedly."Really?" This came as a surprise to Aleksandra. For two years, since she was sixteen, she had battled with an illness no doctor could cure. She was not expected to live past twenty. "Does he know about my illness?" Aleksandra inquired."As a matter of fact, he does. Your father was sure to mention that. He assured your father he didn't mind." Liliya proceeded to pick out a dress for her mistress to wear. "Now you must get out of bed. He will be here within the hour.""Today? Why am I only hearing of this now?""Your father made me promise not to tell until today. He knew you would protest, you see. Come! Get dressed!"Liliya helped Aleksandra into her corset and dress. Then she worked through her long hair, pinning it up out of her eyes. Finally, she brought out a small box with light blue jewels. She opened up the box and put the necklace inside it on Aleksandra. "For luck," she explained."So who is this mysterious man who is so foolish to even consider marrying such a pitifully sick girl?" Aleksandra asked."Don't call him foolish dear, you should feel special someone is willing to give you a chance. And I only know his name. Elijah."