In her hiding place, Zelina froze with terror. If the two statesmen became aware she had overheard their conversation retribution would be swift. Yet, somehow, she must warn Lord Charnock of Russia's true intentions ... Zelina had not wanted to visit St. Petersburg but the voyage there began a friendship with the autocratic Lord Charnock. Whether rescuing her form importunate passengers or protecting her from the unwelcome advances of Prince Alexis, he was always at hand when needed. Now, she must risk everything to help Charnock's secret mission hoping he might come to love her even a fraction as much as she loved him.