210 Opening one's heart

After Count Grahm and his daughter leave, we finally have some peace.

The letter from the Ambassador with Elisabeth's fate printed on it arrives soon later, so I can relax and ponder about my next move.

«Now, they don't have any motive to try killing you,» Alexander says while looking at the letter with a burning stare. I should let him destroy the paper later. It will help his mood.

I'm sitting on his lap. His arms are surrounding me, and his chin is on my shoulder. I can guess his thoughts from the strength he uses to hold me. It tightens every time his mind strays towards the past.

«Until they find out I'm lobbying to prevent their second daughter from becoming empress.»

«They won't find out.»

«Not until it's too late,» I giggle. «I might need the Ambassador's help once more...»

«No!»

«No?»

He releases his clench a bit, and I can return to breathe normally.