“Okay,” the trinity, nodding their heads, disappeared

Max, who was still restlessly shifting from foot to foot, remained:

“Vladimir wanted to discuss something with you,” he looked uneasily at Mark. “He asked me to contact him when you arrived. Come on, I'll entertain Alinochka while they prepare the room. At the same time, I find out what she prefers for lunch.

“I'll find him later,” Mark said. “And I'm not so busy as to leave Alina without an important reason.

No matter how charming and harmless Max was, the prince's words echoed with warm gratitude in his chest. Today there are too many upheavals and acquaintances and, to be honest,...