A Dirty Scheme II

Ivan sat in the dining room waiting for his guest to arrive. He had just been given clearance by the physician to leave the Med Wing, and he already began putting his and Orlov’s plan in place. He made sure the dining room looked as exquisite as it did when his step-mother entertained foreign dignitaries. Although Ivan always loathed the woman, he was excited to see that effervescence return with Ursa at the helm. 

But that would have to wait. Ivan didn’t want to ruin Orlov’s show before it even began! A servant opened the grand doors, and in a loud voice announced, “Lady Tatya Poplova has arrived.” The lady herself entered moments later, wearing the latest fashions and  a fan in clutch. 

“Your Majesty,” she greeted, curtsying low, as if her knees were about to hit the ground. Ivan reluctantly stood up to