Even so, she had no privacy in her rooms. She always changed behind a dressing screen and glanced over her shoulder to make sure Alexei had not entered her room. When she received no answer, she opened the door. She thought Alexei would be here, because he had told her to let him know when she and Rusak left for the appointment with Herr Professor Waldstein. “Alexei?” she called. He did not answer, but she saw him bent over his desk, scribbling fiercely. She entered the room, staying close to the door. In spite of herself, she stared at the huge bed. Why had her dreams for the past two nights been of being there with him? She was crazy! She was certain of that. For the past two evenings, Bartholomew had escorted her about Vienna. They had laughed together, and he had delighted in sharing gossip with her about those they met. Yet, in her dreams, she was always with Alexei, who was making it clear during their waking hours that he been sincere when he told her their relationship should be only business.
