CH.31

Later that evening, Karl and I settled into a secluded corner booth at one of Moscow's most expensive restaurants.

The soft glow of candlelight danced across the crisp white linen and glittering crystal, lending the space an air of romantic intimacy.

The dining room was a masterpiece of architectural beauty, with soaring vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes and gleaming marble columns that stretched toward the heavens.

Fancy crystal chandeliers hung suspended above the tables, throwing a warm, romantic glow on the luxuriously leather chairs and clean white tablecloths.

The sweet strains of a string of classical music wafted through the air from a secluded corner alcove, their melodies blending seamlessly with the gentle clink of exquisite dinnerware and the hushed whisper of conversation from other dinners.

The aroma of exquisitely prepared cuisine mingled with the subtle scent of fresh flowers arranged in delicate vases on each table.

A waiter in impeccable forma