Moldavian Moon Book One: The Wolf's Torment

He gestured for her to walk through the door and he followed. Once they were in the hall, Theresa turned toward him. "What now?"

"We're going to the study."

Disappointment filled her. "To work?"

"Only for a little bit. I'll leave instructions for Viktor."

"Then what?"

"I thought I'd take you up to my tower."

"Tower?"

A knowing, secretive smile crossed his lips. "Let it be a surprise."

"All right."

They arrived at the study and Theresa followed him inside. He motioned for her to take the chair across from the desk. He sat behind it, shuffling through papers and making notes. Theresa glanced around the study. Most of the furniture was a dark cherry wood. There were two windows and thankfully the drapes were drawn open letting in the morning light. There were two walls full of shelves and books. How positively masculine. It needed something to give it a little personality. Maybe a painting? Or two?

She leaned forward. "Tell me, Mihai, who is your favorite painter?"

He stopped writing and looked up. "I like a variety of painters -- de Vileger, van Ruisdael, van de Velde--"

"Dutch painters."

A slow smile hinting of admiration crossed his face. "Yes, they are."

She folded her fingers and placed them on the desk. "They painted maritime seascapes."

The hint of a smile turned into a full-fledged grin. "Very good. How do you know of them?"

"I did study art. I like Dutch painters myself because they're so incredibly lifelike."

He put the papers on the table. "Why did you ask me about the painters?"

"I thought this study could use a painting or two."

"Thank you."

She pointed to his papers. "May I ask what's so important that you wanted to work on it?"

His smile slowly vanished. "It's very involved."

"Can you tell me?"

"My father has given me several tasks to complete and none are easy. This one involves building a railroad from here to Bucharest."

"That is quite a task, but a much needed one."

"I'll have Viktor take this proposal to the Prime Minister today."

Theresa thoughtfully pursed her lips, grateful Mihai had shared a bit of his work with her. She craved to know more so she could help, yet she sensed he didn't want to be pushed. She'd have to walk a careful line.