Beth nodded, taking another deep swallow of the Cognac. "I think you most certainly could find that illegitimate child with your contacts, Sergius."

"Of course not. I'm never to busy to spend time with you. You are my favourite after all." She said, staring down at the cards he laid out. She felt rather melancholy to have been brushed off in such a way. Any number of men would have jumped at the chance to marry her, she felt sure.