Chapter Two: In My Blood

Rose

I pulled back my arm and aimed for the red mark on the dummy's chest. I inhaled deeply and held my breath willing myself to focus, but I couldn't. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught the reason for my inability to concentrate. Dimitri Belikov was handsome and even that word lacked in describing him. He was tall and muscular, I could tell by his broad shoulders hidden under his duster and by the way he easily decimated my guards a few minutes ago. A few strands of hair had come undone from his ponytail and framed his defined jaw line. His gentle brown eyes followed my every movement, and I felt as if I was naked in front of him. The thought made me blush and release my arrow. I missed my mark sending my arrow flying over the dummy's head by a long shot. Knowing it would be hard to get back on task, I sighed and after one last glare at my nemesis the dummy, I turned to Mason handing him the bow.

"I think that's enough for today, Mason." I had wanted to be good and show off for my audience, but my mind couldn't focus with Dimitri's commanding presence. "Besides, our guests require my attention. You haven't told me, how was your trip?"

Dimitri cleared his throat. "It was long, Your Highness, but very pleasant. Christian and I enjoyed lush scenery, and I have never met more friendly and kind people."

"Yes, yes," I moved closer to Dimitri until he was within arm length. "I'm sure you two enjoyed taking hidden roads and watching cows and goats feeding. You don't have to stroke my ego. Save your diplomat talk for my father."

"Not at all, Your Highness," I thought I saw his lips twitch with a smile or perhaps exasperation at my bold words. Regardless, I liked seeing him shift his weight as if uncomfortable. "Your country is very beautiful, but I am enjoying its people the most." His eyes met mine at the last part, but he quickly looked away when Lissa addressed him. As for me? I tried not to burst into flames.

"More beautiful than Russia?" Lissa asked finally tearing her attention away from Christian. I had noticed that as well. I had never seen Lissa more interested in a man before, and I knew she would speak in depth about Christian later on.

"I'm afraid my answer would be biased, Lady Lissa." Dimitri gave her a gentle smile. "You would have to see Russia for yourself."

"Spoken like a true diplomat," I chuckled. "Perhaps once our countries are friendly again, my father will allow us to visit. I've never been outside of Turkey and obviously neither has Lissa. It would be refreshing to see the world through my eyes instead of television or photos."

"I understand. Parents are always overprotective hoping to shield us from the world," Dimitri spoke slowly as if choosing his words which made sense. After the unorthodox introduction, he must be terrified of insulting my family and me further. I identified with that. I always had to be in control of my tongue, for I was quick to say the wrong thing even when I've been trained all my life on how to converse with people.

"It's not my father," I looked down at my interlaced hands nervously. "It's more my choice. I wanted to grow up away from the spotlight. I have been able to put off royal duties for far too long. After my eighteenth celebration, I won't be able to hide any longer."

"Hide? Why do you hide?" Dimitri frowned, and I saw his jaw clench and unclench.

"I… I don't like the way some people look at me. They see the crown and the power that comes with it. I feel like a pawn… Besides, many people including my parents will tell you I always put my foot in my mouth. I haven't felt ready to represent my family or my country in public."

"You will do well," Dimitri offered a smile that made me catch my breath. He looked so carefree with that smile. But just as the smile came, it disappeared. We looked away from each other, and I fought back a blush creeping up my cheeks.

"Thank you though I wish…"

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but we should head back to the palace, Your Highness," Mason said making me jump, for I had almost forgotten he was there. In fact, I'd forgotten the world around me like the whole world was just Dimitri and me talking. I could never completely forget who I was, but at least I felt more normal. "Dinner will be soon, and you must get ready."

"Of course," I turned to Dimitri and extended my hand out to him. "Walk with me, Mr. Belikov."

"I don't think that's a good idea," Mason interfered moving closer. "Your father will be very upset if he…"

"If," I interrupted as I interlaced my hand through Dimitri's arm. Just as I predicted, there was raw muscle under his clothing. He tensed at my touch but did nothing to step away. I wasn't sure if it was because he liked having me near or he was worried he would insult me if he acted as if I was the black plague incarnate. "His Majesty is busy at the moment, and he doesn't need to know about this."

"Etiquette dictates a proper announcement before you can be alone with a foreigner especially a commoner," Mason said through his teeth. I loved Mason. He had been my friend way before he became my guard. We used to play together as children throwing mud at each other much to my mother's dismay. But once he began training to be a member of the royal guard, he became too uptight. His duty came before anything else. There was no doubt in my mind he would give his life for me, which was concerning, but he was no longer the carefree rule breaker of our childhood.

"I'm not alone, Mase," I rolled my eyes and began walking pulling along the Russian foreigner. "You're with me as well as the other guards. Dimitri isn't going to sweep me off my feet and ask me to run away to Mother Russia. Are you?"

"Of course not," Dimitri responded too quickly almost appalled by the suggestion. I ignored my wounded ego and opted to laugh it off.

"If my father does find out, I'm sure he will be happy I entertained our guest while he spoke with the council."

"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Dimitri said. "I'd hate to intrude if there are duties to take care of."

"Not at all," I shrugged. "My father has been dealing with the council for a long time. Since my grandfather fell ill, he hardly had the energy to meet with those ugly vultures."

"Speaking of your grandfather," he said as we began to make our way to the castle at a slow pace. A procession followed us with Mason walking at a short distance from us, Lissa and Christian came next continuing their conversation in hushed tones, and bringing up the rear was Eddie and Grant. "I wish to convey my deep condolences for the loss of your grandfather."

"Thank you," I looked down as I felt the stinging of treacherous tears in my eyes.

"Were you two close?" He said in a whisper I wasn't sure I heard him at first.

"Yes," I said after a moment of silence. Why did I feel safe in his presence? Why did I feel like I could talk to him? If my father had allowed him into our country, then Dimitri was safe, right?

When I saw Dimitri swiftly and effortlessly disposing of my guards, who were trained to be most deadly, I knew he was no simple ambassador. The ambassadors I've met were much older with thinning gray hair and bulging bellies that easily dismissed me. Despite being a princess and future ruler, I was too young and of no importance to them yet. Dimitri was much different in looks and demeanor. He was young perhaps a few years older than me. And he didn't dismiss me easily. He waited patiently for me to elaborate, and he listened intently. He addressed me by my title and showed the respect it warranted, but I could tell he saw me. He saw I was a person with feelings. I felt in the way his arm relaxed as we continued to walk, and I saw it in his eyes as he looked not with pity but sadness at my loss. I shouldn't have bared my soul to him. I shouldn't have shared my grief with a stranger. But I felt at ease, and I decided that maybe we could be friends if nothing more. Our countries counted on us getting along amicably. Besides, I figured if I shared some of my story he might let me in as well. I decided I was going to find out everything about Dimitri Belikov to satisfy my curiosity and to be sure my family and I were safe around him. Or so I kept saying to myself.

"I'm sorry, Your Highness," he said after my silence prolonged. "I didn't mean to bring up painful memories."

"No, they aren't painful," I smiled sadly and looked up at the castle glowing with lights as night time approached. "That tower right over there," I pointed to the tallest tower on the far right side. "That's where my grandfather slept. I remember evenings of hot chocolate, the smell of his pipe in the air, sitting by the fireplace as he read me a fairytale." I turned to Dimitri and smiled sadly. "They're happy memories. I spent most of my time with my grandfather. My parents were always busy. My grandfather was too busy ruling to parade around the cameras, and I, at a young age, decided I'd rather stay home than be dangled like a piece of meat over a den of hungry lions. Fortunately my grandfather was my greatest ally. He kept me at his side to 'teach' me how to one day be queen. We used to walk in the afternoons through these gardens. Sometimes we would sit in that bench, and he would tell me stories of his youth. He was very loving and understanding to how different I was or rather still am. He was very kind to the people around him and taught me a great deal of things. If anything else, I may not be a memorable queen one day, but I'm sure I'll be adequate having seen him in action leading with compassion as much as he could."

"He sounds like a great person," Dimitri said.

"Some would disagree," I blurted out without realizing. Behind me, Mason coughed, and I tried so hard not to turn around and roll my eyes at him. "But yes. He was an extraordinary grandfather and a great ruler. But as you said, my opinion is probably biased."

Dimitri chuckled a little at that but didn't press the matter. He must have sensed my hesitation to speak more on my grandfather. Besides, we reached the steps to the castle, and all too soon, it was time for us to part ways. We couldn't walk in together because we weren't supposed to know each other yet.

"I hope it's not too much to ask," he chose his words carefully. "If Your Highness could keep my indiscretion to herself? I would hate to offend His Majesty."

I laughed and began to climb the steps before turning around to respond. "I think it's a little late for that, Dimitri. But considering I have my own secret to keep, you and I must be allies. I'll keep your 'indiscretion' to myself if you keep my activities in the rose garden a secret. I don't know if you realized, but princesses don't usually play with weapons."

"My lips are sealed, Your Highness," Dimitri bowed low. "And thank you."

"No need to thank me. I have more to lose than you, believe me."

"I don't just mean for being understanding," he climbed the steps to stand by my side. "Thank you for the company. I hope once we've been properly introduced we'll be allowed to speak more."

"I hope so too," I whispered before walking away with my entourage following me closely. "Nice to not meet you, Dimitri and Christian." I called over my shoulder.

"Was that wise?" Mason commented as we took the stairs to my room.

"Have you ever known me for doing the wise thing?" I whispered so he would be the only one to hear. "I'm known to be reckless, but yes, I think that was very wise. He's no simple ambassador."

"I know," Mason bit his lower lip and frowned. "Did you see how easily he incapacitated Grant and Eddie? He shouldn't have."

"I guess the rumors are true, and the Russians are skilled fighters," I said recalling the way Dimitri moved. I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks wondering if he was just as graceful and precise in bed as he was in a fight but quickly dismissed that thought hearing Mason's next words.

"Do you think they're also capable of assassination?"

"Of course. All men are capable of murder. I don't think it was Dimitri himself, but I do doubt Russia is here on good faith. Everyone is currently guilty to me until I prove otherwise. Being friendly to Dimitri and his companion might help us differentiate between foe and ally."

"You two better be whispering about our hot guests," Lissa said breathlessly as she rushed up the steps to catch up to me. "Tell me Christian is not the dreamiest man alive!"

"He sure is, Liss," Mason rolled his eyes. "I was thinking of asking him to be my partner during Rose's birthday party."

"I know you're joking, Mason Ashford," Lissa narrowed her eyes on him and interlaced her hand through my arm. "But in case you aren't, I call dibs. I saw him first. Also, I claim Dimitri for Rose."

I laughed. "Don't drag me into your squabble. I want no part in this."

"Are you really going to tell me you don't want a piece of that Russian's ass?" Lissa looked almost offended.

"Language," Mason chastised.

"No, Liss," I sighed as I opened the doors to my room and saw the crowd gathered there to help me dress. Everyone in the room turned at my arrival and stopped everything to bow and curtsy to me. "I don't want Dimitri Belikov."

"Yes, you do," Lissa pestered me. "I saw how you looked at him. You were practically drooling."

"I'm not sure what you saw, Liss. You were engrossed in your conversation with Christian."

"I am offended you don't think I can multitask." Lissa gasped mockingly. "I still saw you. I think you like him. I'll find out everything there is to know about Dimitri from Christian tonight."

Before I could reply, Lissa left to her own room to get ready for dinner. I would be lying if I didn't admit that some of what Lissa said was true. Dimitri had left quite the impression on our first meeting, and I couldn't wait to see him again. As I showered, I kept thinking of Dimitri Belikov. As the maids helped me dress, I kept recalling his exotic and enthralling accent. As my hair was pulled and pinned intricately, I felt his strong arm under my hand tense at first then relaxed as we talked. It didn't help when Lissa came back in the room and all she could talk about was Christian therefore forcing me relive the afternoon.

"Christian is so funny and interesting," Lissa sighed dreamily. "I could talk to him all night. In fact, I hope I can sit next to him and continue where we left off."

"Don't forget you're not supposed to know him," I said as the help slowly left the room. I wasn't too concerned about them babbling to my father. They knew Lissa and I were always caught up in something. "You shouldn't be too friendly, Lissa."

"You said just last night we should be," Lissa pouted as she sat next to me on the love seat.

"I just mean you have to be cautious how much you tell him," I adjusted the rubies around my neck and turned to my best friend. "They're strangers and for all we know could be here to finish what they started. Yes, we should be friendly and find out everything we can, but we can't forget to be cautious. Don't wander off alone with him, and if you do, I'll instruct Grant to follow you."

"A chaperone!" Lissa exclaimed indignant getting up and pacing about the room. Her lavender dress flailing about her. "Fine. Only because I can't say no to you, Your Highness."

"Oh, don't be like that," I rolled my eyes and stood up to place my hands on her shoulders. "It'll be just for a little while until we decide if they're on our side."

"What if they're not?" Lissa said sadly. "What if it was the Russians?"

I paused as I considered her words. What if it had been the Russians? What if Dimitri was here to finish what the other assassin couldn't? The answer shouldn't have been so hard to come to me. If Dimitri and his government were responsible for the death of my grandfather, I should be hungry for their blood. But I found myself wishing fervently with all my heart that Dimitri wasn't involved in the death of my most beloved grandfather.

"I don't think it was them," I tried to reassure Lissa, and myself. "But just to be safe, be careful. Mind your words and thread cautiously."

"You two couldn't be spies even if your lives depended on it," Mason grunted as he knocked softly on the door frame.

"Why not?" Lissa clutched her chest clearly startled by Mason's sudden appearance. She could never get used to him appearing out of thin air. "No one would suspect us."

"Spying is about stealth. You two are too loud and easily distracted. You would be distracted by a pretty dress or a handsome face." He turned to me tapping his chin as if in deep thought, but I already knew he had a comment ready. "While Rose, well, you'd be distracted by swords and guns."

"Are you calling me a savage?" I arched an eyebrow. "Careful, Mason. I think those are fighting words."

"You think you're ready to take me on? Again?" Mason smirked crossing his arms over his chest. "I didn't think you'd be ready to lose for the third time in a week."

"Sounds like you're afraid there, Mase. Eddie has been training me. Does it make you nervous how much I've improved?"

"Not at all, Your Highness," Mason swept me a low bow. "Name the time and place."

"Not this again," Lissa groaned.

"Tomorrow. Before sunrise." I hated getting up early but that was the least likely time we would get caught sword fighting. My parents weren't too keen on my interests of learning how to fight with swords, bows and arrows, and I knew eventually Mason would show me how to use a gun. Though guns terrified me, learning these skills were far more interesting than sitting in a stuffy room with Kirova as she groomed me to be a lady, or in the library listening to my father go on about our history and laws. Most of the time I felt like a bomb in a birdcage ticking away and ready to explode at any moment. My escapades to the rose garden, less visible from my parent's room, were the only thing keeping me sane.

"As you wish," Mason's amusement faded from his lips as he straightened up and stood up straight. "I must warn you, Your Highness, Lady Lissa, please be careful with these men. Your father granted them passage but that doesn't mean we can trust them. I suggest you do thread carefully and mind what you say to them."

"I know," I turned to Lissa, who nodded her head she understood. "I would like Grant assigned to Lissa at all times for that same reason."

Mason hesitated pursing his lips as he assessed my request. It wasn't that he didn't want to protect Lissa; he simply didn't want to leave me unprotected. I was priority to every guard in this castle. My parents were second. I was to carry my family into the future so my safety was paramount. I hated it, but it was nothing I could change, yet.

"As you wish, Your Highness. On another note, Her Majesty would like to see you before dinner in her chambers."

"Of course she would," I sighed smoothing my skirt. "She probably wants to make sure I'm not dressed like a savage, or I'm actually attending dinner."

"I will see you in the dining hall," Lissa smiled sympathetically and turned to leave with Grant on her heel now.

"Whenever you're ready, Your Highness," Mason bowed before leaving me alone in the room to finish getting ready.

I turned to the mirror and inspected my attire. I nodded knowing this will please mother and hopefully a certain brown eyed Russian. I left the room and headed to my mother's with Mason and Eddie right behind me. They wore their black uniforms tonight with the Mazur insignia in red on their chest close to their heart. I would be blind if I didn't admit they both looked rather handsome. Mason with his fiery hair and bright blue eyes. Eddie, always quiet but deadly, with sandy blond hair and hazel eyes.

I knocked firmly on my mother's door and a response to enter came almost immediately. I signaled for Mason and Eddie to wait outside. They didn't protest because they knew Celeste, my mother's guard, would be inside protecting my mother and therefore I would be safe. Upon entering, I saw my mother looking every bit like a queen, and I feared I would never be as poised and beautiful as her. Her hair fell in meticulous auburn curls to her lower back. Upon her head sat an exquisite crown encrusted with emeralds and diamonds. She opted for a dark green chiffon dress with long sleeves as long as the dress. She adjusted a pair of matching earrings and turned to face me. Her eyes swept over me, and she nodded in approval.
"Rosemarie," her Scottish accent was barely noticeable now after so many years living in Turkey. My mother was a duchess in her homeland, and her marriage to my father had been arranged to forge peace between us and Great Britain. While my parents didn't know each other very well upon their marriage, their love blossomed throughout the years. My father worshipped her like the true queen she was. "You look like a princess now."

"Thank you, Mom," I curtsied like Kirova drilled into me. "I am happy to please you."

"All you are missing is," she turned to her vanity were a big velvet box sat, and I willed my heart to be calm. This was it. This was the point of no return. "This."

Out of the box, she pulled a tiara with rubies in the shape of tulips surrounded by vines encrusted with diamonds and pearls. I had never worn a tiara or crown before. Princes and Princess didn't wear crowns or tiaras until their eighteenth birthday or until they officially became the crown prince, or princesses, of their country whichever came first. For me, both came and all too soon. My birthday had already passed the day after my grandfather died. The celebration of my coming of age had to be postponed, so we could mourn. After losing him, I didn't want to have a celebration at all, but it wasn't just for me. It was to introduce me to the world. My time in the shadows was up and soon my face would be plastered in newspapers and television. The little bit of freedom I retained would be taken away, and I felt powerless as I kneeled so my mother could place the tiara on my head. Tears stung my eyes as I felt the weight of the foreign ornament on my head. It wasn't heavy per se, but what it represented weighed me down.

I willed the tears to stay away, and stood up straight. This was my life, and as Lissa often said, it was time to accept it. I had the power to change the world in my hands.

"Wait until your father sees you," my mother said with pride in her voice. "He has been a nervous wreck all week. His little girl is finally growing up."

"His Majesty is too dramatic," I chuckled.

"Indeed, he is," my mother agreed with her own smile. "He had the tiara made especially for you."

"So this is mine?" I touched the tiara lightly. "It is beautiful."

"Like you," she nodded taking a step back and inspecting me once more. "This fits perfectly with your dress. Your father knows you very well."

Not as well as he thinks, I said to myself while I simply nodded in agreement to my mother.

"Now," she cleared her throat lightly and turned all business. "Let us go over some things for tonight."

"I know," I rolled my eyes and sat on the nearest sofa made of mahogany with red velvet cushions hand sewn here in Turkey. "I'll be on my best behavior."

"First of all, young lady, do not roll your eyes at me," my mother chastised sitting across from me. "Sit up straight. I am pleased to hear you will be on your best behavior but besides that please refrain from being too friendly with our guests."

"Why wouldn't I be? Aren't we supposed to be allies?"

"Watch your overuse of contractions, Rosemarie. You are an educated and proper lady." My mother paused then as if pondering her next words. This was nothing new. Often I was kept in the dark about some issues because I was too young. I hated that. I was too young to know my grandfather might have been poisoned, but I wasn't so to find a husband. I waited patiently anyway hoping my mother would answer my questions. "We believe they may not come in peace; no evidence just whispers. But often whispers turn out to be true. You should not know this. Your father would like to shelter you all your life, but I think it is time you see the world for what it truly is: a cold unforgiving place with people and their secret agendas. Your father and I will not be here to protect you forever. I want you to be prepared for anything, so I suppose your 'secret' training sessions will now be sanctioned."

My jaw hit the floor before she was finished. I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks at being discovered. "You knew?"

"Of course," my mother smiled proudly at having outsmarted me. "You only think you are cunning."

"Why the change of heart?" I ignored her mocking words genuinely curious and even concerned as to why my mother would allow me to learn to use swords and guns. Violence is not lady like, she had said when I begged her to let me train with Mason.

"As I said, your father and I will not always be able to protect you." Is all she said.

"Should I be concerned?"

"No," she gave me a brief smile meant to be reassuring, but it did the complete opposite. "There is nothing to worry about. Now, let us make our way to the dining hall. We can only keep your father waiting for so long." We stood up at the same time, and she took my right hand in hers interlacing it through her arm. "You do look incredible, Rosemarie. I am proud of you no matter what."

"Thank you," I felt my chest swell with her loving words. I knew my parents loved me; they just never had the time to constantly show it. But it was definitely nice to be reminded every once in a while that I wasn't just their offspring meant to carry the royal blood.

As we walked towards the dining hall with our royal guard trailing silently behind us, I thought over my mother's words about Dimitri and Christian. I found it hard to believe they were here to kill us. But my mother wasn't the only person to warn me of possible foul play. Mason had warned Lissa and me to be careful. Was I really that naïve that I wanted to see the best in people? Did Dimitri's beautiful eyes and strong physique blind me to what was right in front of me? Had I been wrong to let a foreigner see the vulnerability of a future queen? Lost in my thoughts, I didn't notice we had arrived and stood outside the double doors of the dining hall. I could hear voices inside and the clattering of glasses and utensils. Eventually the doors opened with a great boom and all eyes turned to us.

"May I present my wife, Her Majesty, Queen Janine," my father called over the chatter immediately ending all conversation. "And my most precious jewel, my lovely daughter Princess Rosemarie."

I saw Dimitri dressed in a black silk suit with his duster over it. I realized then his love for the garment. Before he bowed respectfully to my mother and me, I saw a flicker of surprise, and I couldn't help smile with the thought he might like what he saw me wearing. I had opted for a red, tulle gown with a court train and laced at the back. The neckline was high obviously, for I knew it wouldn't be appropriate to show cleavage. My mother would have a heart attack if I had picked anything less conservative yet elegant. Despite not showing much skin, except my collarbones, the fabric clung to my curves all the way to the train. When Dimitri straightened out, I saw the surprise was gone and there was only polite interest.

"It is an honor to finally meet you, Your Majesty," Dimitri turned to my mother first taking her hand and kissing it gently. "I am Dimitri Belikov ambassador of Russia. We have heard tales of your beauty as well as seen photos, but those do not do you justice."

"You are very kind, Mr. Belikov," my mother nodded in approval at his words.

"How very suave, Dimitri," my father laughed slapping Dimitri's back. "So young yet so eloquent. I might have to steal you away from the czar. What do you have to say about my daughter? Is she not the most beautiful creature?"

"So beautiful it hurts," Dimitri bowed and took my hand also placing a kiss in which he lingered longer than my mother's. "A pleasure to meet you, Princess Rosemarie."

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding when his lips touched my hand. I felt warm and light all over like a feather in the wind at his touch. I hated when he let go of me. "Likewise, Mr. Belikov."

"Please call me Dimitri," he turned to my mother. "I insist."

"Very well," my mother conceded and took my father's right arm. "Tell us, Dimitri, how was your trip?"

The dining hall was fitting of my family's status and wealth. A long table of rosewood had been polished until I could see my reflection on the wood. The finest china and silver ware had been laid out. An exquisite chandelier hung from the ceiling above us and candles around the room shone light on our massive feast laid before us consisting of lamb, oysters, fish, fresh vegetables, and for desert Turkish Delights, obviously. But I hardly tasted the food. I hardly paid attention to the beautiful room decorated with tulips, roses and mint. I listened to the conversation intently because I wanted more than anything to hear Dimitri's accent.

My father sat at the head of the table with my mother on his right and Dimitri to his left. Next to Dimitri was Christian, and as is if orchestrated by Lissa herself, she sat next to Christian. I sat next to my mother and had no one to converse with though it didn't bother me much. It gave me time to steal glances in Dimitri's general direction. I kept pushing my food aside as I heard the conversation remain in neutral waters concerning the weather, cars, music and books. It wasn't until my name was brought up that I actually joined the conversation.

"Did you hear what your father said, Rosemarie?" My mother demanded my attention.

"Sorry, Baba. What did you say?"

My father gave me a gentle smile. "I said you would not mind showing Dimitri around tomorrow, would you? I am afraid the queen and I have another tedious meeting with the council early in the morning, and with these old farts, you never know how long it will take."

"I would not want to inconvenience Her Highness. I'm sure she has more interesting things to do." Dimitri's lips twitched and he turned to look at me at the last part.

I wanted to throw my napkin at him for teasing me this way. But if what he wanted was a battle of wits, then he would have one. Before I could respond, however, the double doors to the dining hall burst open. All eyes turned to the intruder, and I could hear my father inhale sharply before I stood up and rushed to greet the new comer.

"Adrian!" I squealed very unlady like as I threw my arms around him.

"Now this is the proper greeting," Adrian chuckled spinning me around as I giggled. "At least someone in this place is happy to see me."

"You are always welcome, Lord Ivashkov," my mother stood up and came to join me in welcoming Adrian though her approach was more dignified than mine. She extended her hand out to him, so he could kiss it and bow. "Welcome back. How was London? I hope you gave my cousins my love."

"Of course, Your Majesty. They send their love in return. London was thrilling." He turned to me. "I can't wait to tell you all about it, Rose. You should come with me next time."

"Absolutely not," My father grunted pushing his chair back and joining us. Suddenly aware of the guests and his outburst, my father cleared his throat. "Rosemarie is not ready for such travels yet."

Adrian shrugged pulling out a silver box out of his jacket. "She will have to be ready one day."

"I do not have time to argue with you," my father said in hushed tones snatching the cigarette from Adrian's lips. "Tatiana will hear about this nasty habit you promised to give up. Go home, Adrian."

"I have not had dinner," Adrian sighed putting his box back in his jacket. "I thought I might stay. Besides," he looked over at Dimitri, who remained seated and sipping on his wine. "I hear we have very interesting guests. I promise I will be on my best behavior."

"Please, Baba," I pleaded turning on my charm. "I haven't seen Adrian in weeks."

"Fine," my father looked up at the heavens in exasperation. He pointed a finger at Adrian. "You better be on your best behavior. These are important guests; I do not want any mischief."

"Mischief?" Adrian whispered as we headed back to the table. "I am an angel."

"Of trouble," I whispered back leading him to sit next to me.

"Hello, Liss," Adrian kissed the top of Lissa's head as she gave him a loving smile. "Forgive the intrusion," he extended a hand out to Christian then Dimitri. "I am Lord Adrian Ivashkov at your service."

As Dimitri introduced himself, I couldn't help notice how he stood taller and gripped Adrian's hand with more force than necessary causing Adrian to wince and chuckle nervously. I tried not to dwell on Dimitri's sudden stiff posture or the way his eyebrows furrowed. I figured it was a manly thing.

"As I was saying," my father tried to return to the conversation as if Adrian wasn't there and as if there was no need to explain who he was. "Rose will be happy to show you around, Dimitri."

"You're a tour guide now, Your Highness?" Adrian whispered and took my glass of wine as the servants worked on setting up a plate. "You think I can get a private tour as well? And I don't mean of the palace…" He trailed off and winked at me.

I tried not to blush as I turned to Dimitri and ignored the suggestive tone in Adrian's words. "I would be delighted to show you around, Dimitri."

"Thank you, Your Highness," Dimitri nodded in my direction. "I will try not to be a burden and steal too much of your time. I am sure Lord Ivashkov requires your attention as well."

"Yes, I do," Adrian grinned and winked at me before turning back to Dimitri. "So Dimitri Belikov, huh? I find it strange we never met before considering our profession."

My father didn't say anything, but I saw him stiffen and turn to give my mother a look that clearly meant my father would lose his mind soon. Dimitri kept eye contact and never once relaxed from his stiff posture.

"I'm sorry, Adrian," Dimitri gave him a tight smile. "I don't think we frequent the same social circles."

"Quite right," Adrian responded looking down at glass of wine like it was the most interesting thing in the world. "I'm of noble birth and you are who exactly?"

"Adrian," my father said firmly. "I believe it is time to go home. Your family must miss you as well."

"Of course," Adrian smiled brightly and stood up extending his hand out to me. "Auntie, would you mind if I take Rose for a minute?"

"Not at all," my mother responded before my father could protest. "Take your time. Give our best to your family."

"I will surely do that. Enjoy your evening." He gave Dimitri a lopsided grin. "Enjoy your 'tour' and your stay in Turkey."

"Thank you," Dimitri said his eyes never wavering from my hand as I held onto Adrian's arm.

I could feel eyes on me all the way out, and I dared not look back afraid of what I might see in Dimitri's eyes. Mason, always following me, closed the door behind us and stood at a safe distance as Adrian led me down the hall. Finally away from my father's scrutiny, Adrian pulled out a cigarette and put it between his lips.

"Do you mind?" He said before lighting it.

"You went through all the trouble to get the cigarette out, no need to ask for my permission now." I shook my head.

"All you have to say is that you do mind," he said putting it away not before looking at the cigarette with longing as if wondering if they would ever be together. "I don't trust him."

"You don't even know him," I chuckled knowing where he was going with this.

"Oh but I do. I know all men. We are all the same, Little Princess." He turned to me.

"You didn't have to rude," I smacked his arm.

"Your letter said to come see him for myself and see if I have heard of him." Adrian rubbed his arm. "Ow. You're getting stronger. I'm guessing your lessons are paying off?"

"Don't change the subject." I rubbed my hands nervously. "Have you met or heard of Dimitri?"

Adrian paused and looked out a window. I didn't realize when we had stopped. I watched him intently as he gathered his thoughts. Adrian was a close friend though my mother would want us to be more. If my mother had a list, which she might, of men I could marry, Adrian would be at the very top. He was the nephew of a council member, Tatiana Ivashkov. She was my father's strongest supporter and one with a lot of prestige in the council. Offering my hand in marriage to Tatiana's nephew would keep our families in good faith. It didn't matter that Tatiana had always been in love with my father. But Adrian was more like a brother to me. He probably saw me the same way, but in the end, he would do whatever was asked of him. Duty came before self. Always. We both knew there was a possibility we would end up as husband and wife, and we never spoke of it as if by ignoring the elephant in the room, it would grow tired and leave. But I supposed my fate could have been worse. Adrian was kind, loving, handsome, funny, and of noble blood since the Ivashkovs were distantly related to my late grandfather. Adrian's great grandfather was my grandfather's second cousin? Something crazy and convoluted that made Adrian still part of the noble and acceptable candidates to marry. But as I said, we both ignored the possibility and carried on as friends. He was one of the few people I trusted with my secrets and to always be honest with me.

"I never heard of the Belikov name among ambassadors or seen him," he finally said turning to me. "He certainly doesn't look like an ambassador."

"You don't look like an ambassador." I bit my lip. I knew what he meant though. The only reason Adrian was ambassador, despite his youth and even immaturity, was because of his family's good standing in society. Perhaps Dimitri was of noble origins as well. That would explain even less. A noble man wouldn't know how to fight like that. I was growing more and more suspicious of Dimitri which was why I had asked Adrian to come over as soon as he arrived to help me find out more about Dimitri.

"Because of my good looks?" Adrian ran his hand through his stylish tousled hair. "My unparalleled wit?"

"No, I think it has more to do with your party ways." I took his hands in mine. "Please tell me you behaved while in London."

"For the most part," Adrian shrugged.

"Is my father going to have a heart attack reading the report of your activities?"

"I hope not. I'd hate to force you to assume the throne so soon," the light in his eyes dimmed and he turned serious. "I'm sorry for your loss, Rose. I wish I could have been there for you."

"I know," I inhaled sharply. "I wish you could have been here too. It was…"

"Hey," Adrian pulled me in for an embrace. "Don't. Don't go there right now. I wish we could talk, but you must go back to your dinner. I wouldn't want to give your father the wrong impression. Or that Russian for that matter."

"Why would Dimitri care?" I whispered as my heart beat wildly in my chest at the prospect that Dimitri noticed me.

"Rose, are you really that oblivious to your own beauty?" Adrian chuckled. "I saw the way he looked at you when I spun you around."

"Is that why you did it?"

"No. I did it to anger father dear. Getting a reaction out of the Russian was a bonus."

"Oh hush," I mumbled against his shirt. "You're imagining things about Dimitri. And my father loves you."

"Maybe but he detests the idea of us," Adrian pulled back to look at me. "I could be a good husband, you know. All you have to do is tell me. Better be married to someone who knows you and cares for you like I do than some stranger. I would give up everything for you. I would give up the parties, the liquor and smoking…"

"I know you would, but I don't want you to give up anything for me. Or for the crown or your sense of duty. If you give up your vices, I hope it's for you. For your health and happiness. Besides, I don't want you to be in a marriage where you only care for the person. I want you to love her. I want you to be free to love."

"You and I are not meant to be free, Rose," he smiled sadly then placed a kiss on my forehead. "Freedom is not in our blood. I will look into your Russian and bring any information back." He turned to Mason standing a safe distance from us. "Keep her safe, Ashford."

"With my life," Mason responded fisting his right hand over his heart.

"Goodnight, Little Princess," Adrian turned around and walked away finally lighting his cigarette.

I stayed for a few more minutes looking down at the palace grounds. I saw Adrian get in his car and disappear into the night. I had a feeling that whatever he found on Dimitri Belikov might not be pretty, but I hoped for the best. If only my grandfather was still alive none of this would be happening. I could have a little more time in the shadows. But alas, it was time to stop hiding. It was time to let our enemies know the Mazurs wouldn't back down and our reign would continue. Adrian may have been right, and we weren't meant to be free. Freedom wasn't in our blood but duty ran deep in mine.