Greta was greeted by server when she entered the Khedival Salon who led her to a table where a broad shouldered Russian sat. His eyes were dark and indicated a warmth that made some men handsome. He bowed his head to Greta when she sat down and greeted her, saying,

“You are beautiful. Krammer was not exaggerating. I am pleased to meet you Miss Greta Aristides. I am Sir Alexei Putgornov” Greta attempted to blush, still wondering why she hadn’t agreed to help Shane.

“I am honored to meet you, Sir Alexei Putgornov.” She replied and then the Russian began talking.

“I should tell you that this is no ordinary transaction. I am looking for a wife. The late Lady Putgornov died in the revolution, she suffered a miscarriage.” Greta smiled reassuringly, and said compassionately,

“That is horrible, Sir.” The man dabbed his sweaty forehead and continued speaking.

“You are very beautiful, and Kramer also tells me you are a loyal servant. The makings of a very good wife. I have several children already, but you needn’t worry about them, they are nearly all grown.” Greta nearly coughed but covered it by pretending to sneeze, she asked,

“Your children are grown?” Alexei nodded and spoke,

“Yes, two of them died in the revolution. But my eldest son, whom you are going to marry, has great need of a wife. He is still rebellious and has many disgusting habits only a wife can fix. Sadly, his is gone from this earth.” Greta nodded, this old man seemed kind but his son, by description seemed like a spoiled prat.

“ If I may ask sir, what is so undesirable about your son? If he is of your blood, I could not imagine him being unpleasant.” Greta asked, attempting to sound genuine.

“ When his first wife died several years ago, he began drinking. And he has many times shamed the family name with his behavior. He needs a beautiful woman to set his head straight.” Greta smiled, her acting sublime.

“Is that all? Why you need not worry? That problem is something any woman can correct?” She saw Shane out of the corner of her eye, he was sitting at the table with Nesime Narmer, his brother-in-law.

“You are very understanding, you will be worth what I am paying for you. Do you know why Krammer could not make it?” Alexei asked.

“He is away on business, but he failed to tell me where.” The Russian than laughed robustly,

“Very nice. His probably chasing after that Egyptian woman. The ship that was taking her to Singapore sunk and she’s disappeared.” Greta was amazed and asked,

“You mean the famed Lady Relyari MacRoth?”

“Yes, she was purchased by a, Robert Handle. A German businessman who lives in Singapore. A very good friend of mine. You should get the chance to meet him when we leave for the east.” Greta smiled and replied,

“I should be delighted to meet him.” The Russian returned the warm grin and said,

“Well, Miss Aristides, or should I say Mrs. Greta Putgornov,” he added with a wink, “I am tired. I shall see you later.” Greta stood and Alexei kissed her hand, she watched him walking out before walking over to Shane.

“Mr. MacRoth, Mr. Narmer, I have learned something you should be very glad to know.”