Nicholas And Karenina

Before they left the Viscount Verhoven's mansion, the queen was smiling brightly at Lady Karenina Verhoven and touched her hand.

She spoke softly, "Lady Karenina, would you like to accompany us to the capital, my dear? We are very grateful that you have saved our son and we want to show our gratitude by having you in the capital and sightsee. You will be our guest of honor."

Karenina's eyes widened. She couldn't believe her luck!

No... it's not luck. Her patience and care for the crown prince all these weeks had touched the queen's heart and now she wanted to repay Karenina's good deeds to her son.

"I would be honored to… Your Majesty," Karenina  said, especially when she saw her father signal her to immediately say yes. She managed a quick curtsy and then looked up to Nicholas.

There was a pounding in her heart and she wanted to swoon when she looked at the most handsome man she had ever laid her eyes on.