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It sounds crazy. Messed up even. But it’s true.

More tears glide down her cheeks. “There is no one like you.”

“I know, printsessa.”

“But I am still my father’s daughter. And I feel so guilty and ashamed for what he did to you.”

I cup her face. “This is about me and him. I understand it’s only natural to feel that way, but your father’s crimes are nothing to do with you. The truth is, you should never have been dragged into his mess. I shouldn’t have done that to you. For that, I’m sorry.”

“I understand now.”

“That doesn’t make it right. I’m going to make up for that.”

She reaches out and touches my face. “I love you, Lev Karsavin.”

“And I you, Allegra Karsavin. You are the silver lining in this darkness. My something good. You’re what I get after all the pain. I had to wait my whole life for you. So, it was worth it.”

She leans forward and presses her lips to mine.

I pull her into my chest and kiss her, escaping in her.

Now that so many secrets and truths have been unearthed, we both need to prepare for what comes next.

For now, we can enjoy the quiet.

The quiet before the storm.

Chapter

Forty-Five

Allegra

“Can I get you some coffee?” Zoya asks when I enter the dining room.

She gives me a kind smile, gentler than any she’s given me in the time we’ve known each other. My secret is out. Lev told the people closest to us, people like Zoya.

I’d expected scrutiny and judgment for my deception. Instead, I’ve been met with nothing but understanding.

I smile back at her. “Yes, please. I’d love some coffee.”

“Come and sit.” She waves a hand toward my usual seat. “Are you feeling like a big breakfast or just your regular toast? I’d love to make you something nicer than buttered bread.” There’s a twinkle in her eyes.

“I’d love the feast.”

She brings her hands together and dips her head. “Very well. Feast it is.”

I smile at that, and she leaves. I sit and allow my body to sink into the chair.

Lev left before I woke. We spent the last two days together, simply enjoying each other’s company and doing what I’d always wanted to do with him—just getting to know him. I guess he got to know me more, too. As Allegra.

Mama will be coming here next week. Lev has given me the go-ahead to prepare a room for her. He also had our belongings collected from the ship and brought here, so at least she’ll have some of her things. Everything else is still at the house with my father.

I’m still numb from learning the truth about him. I’m so ashamed of what he did. The worst part is, Lev and his family are only one set of people. I know Papa must have hurt many others. That makes me feel even worse.

Zoya returns half an hour later with the feast she promised and happily serves me. I dive in. I haven’t eaten much over the last few days, so I practically devour the food.

At midday, I start preparing the room for Mama. Zoya wanted to do it—or at least help—but I insisted on doing it myself. It gives me something to take my mind off everything.