Strange that she would at this particular moment suddenly remember her first awkward kiss with the teenage Grigor and want to compare it to Stone's sensual kisses that can only be described as ... earthshattering. Who would have thought that good looking as Grigor had been, he had failed to live up to her naturally high expectations?

Stone's kisses are like biting into decadent chocolate. Her tongue wants to carry on licking. Her eyes open. She purrs satisfactorily, tightening her arms around Stone's naked body.

'What is it?' Stone whispers sensing a fleeting change in her mood.

Aleska looks up into his warm eyes. She pulls him closer. 'I am so happy you are here with me.'

Stone silently thanks his intuitive mum for practically throwing him onto the plane. Why the hell had he wasted two whole months pining for Aleska? He could have been here with her all this time. Stone is humbled at Aleska's indifference to her meagre lifestyle. She is still living in the military compound, in a state issue two bed-roomed house. All her neighbours were in some form of civil service in the military. Aleska has chosen the smaller of the two bedrooms, whilst her grandfather had been offered the larger one. The lounge has well maintained, second hand furniture. Whilst Aleska's double sized bed looks and feels new, the only other furniture in the room was a single drawer closet that hardly looks like it can hold more than five items on hangars on its rail. Yet she was unapologetic of her dwellings. Stone has not seen the kitchen as yet, but he has taken a shower in the miniscule bathroom. His arms are barely able to stretch out in the shower, but the spotlessly clean quarters are good enough for Stone. She may not have much, but Aleska prides herself on maintaining the highest hygienic standards. She was a soldier all right.

Stone smiles. 'I'm sure my body is conveying to you how much it delights in being with you.'

His fingers gently stroke her satin smooth skin, marvelling at its soft texture. Aleska smiles up into his eyes. She lifts her hips, pressing into his body delighting in his hair roughened skin against her breasts. Her lips touch his cheek, feeling the masculine rasp of his beard under her skin. She welcomes the essential maleness of him.

Stone groans, hungry to possess her, but he wants to take his time, savour every caress, every kiss, every touch. He shapes her mouth with one teasing thumb; runs it down her lean neck. He traces the willowy length of her collarbone until his masterful fingers sketch over her breast. His lips move in a caressing trail to her sensitive nape. Her nipples tighten gloriously into a tingling erection below the practiced strokes of his thumb. His hand lingers over the swell of her breasts, whilst the other hand grazes sensually over her sexy legs; long, bare, pale as ivory... all for his taking. His palm skims over the slender curves of her inner thigh. Aleska moans delightfully when his finger finds the fleshy nub at her core.

A sob tears from her lips as a spasm seizes her. The flash of sheer molten passion blazes from his eyes as they connect with hers. She is a strong fiery woman, yet so amazingly responsive to his touch, matching his insatiable hunger for her. His finger delves deeper into the dark confines of her secret places, plunge into her wet heat. The lick of flames flares into molten heat. Aleska writhes and groans shamelessly. Blood pounds uncontrollably in Stone's veins. He feels like his lungs are about to puncture. Still he holds out. Aleska claws at his shoulders. Tension coils her in an out of control spiral. The smouldering heat between her thighs burn for his skilful attention....

His teasing mouth presses against the soft skin of her fine-boned shoulder. Another cry bursts from her throat ... a soft moan of pleasure, escapes her lips. Her head falls back drowning in the tantalizing torture as Stone's lips burn a blazing path down the skin on her midriff. She gasps, her eyes glazing as his lips find the perfect erogenous spot between her slender thighs... in her welcoming depths. Her fingers sink deep into the depths of his black hair. Not satisfied, her urgent hands rake down his back. Hungry to touch him too, her fingers slip between their bodies to stroke his engorged member.

A muscle twitches on his cheek. She whispers ... begs for his possession. He gulps oxygen deep into his lungs, lifts his pelvis and dips inside her. An explosion erupts. Aleska soars, cries out his name. She clings to Stone. Her eyes open to lock with his. He desperately holds back his orgasm, while her body burns into rampant flames. Stone keeps the momentum going thrusting feverishly. He drives in and out, plunging deeper until he feels her spasms, feels her dam wall break. Tremors of fulfilment rock her body as she clings to him. Together they reach the abyss, savour the release as it sweeps over them.

Stone holds her close tightening his grip, his heart is hammering. The muscles on his face slowly begin to relax again. He presses a final kiss on her lips, before his head collapses against her breasts. Aleska cradles his head lovingly, her fingers tenderly caressing the nape of his neck. It is a long time before she feels his pounding heart return to normality. Stone shifts of her, his arm comfortingly supports her, as her head rests on his sturdy chest. She sleeps, completely satiated, her blond lashes thick against her cheeks, her hand resting lightly on his chest. For the first time in two months, Aleska sleeps soundly, snuggling closely to Stone all night until the break of morning.

For breakfast Aleska does not have any fancy or elaborate display for Stone. She prepares the staple and simple breakfast, consisting of syrniki and Rye bread, which is commonly called black bread in Russia. There is also sliced sausage to go with the bread, washed down with black tea.

Stone nevertheless attacks it with gusto, like it is a feast for a king. The delicious syrniki is accompanied with sour cream and powdered sugar. It resembles cheese filled American pancakes to Stone though softer as it crumbles in his mouth. The syrniki does not taste like pancakes, but rather like creamy farmer's cheese. Stone helps himself to six of the mouth-watering pastry like delicacies.

Luckily it is the weekend, so Aleska takes advantage to treat Stone to some of the city's famous sites. Stone has been to Russia on a few previous occasions, but they had been rushed work related visits. And he is not interested in the modern touristy sites. He loves architecture and the timeless beauty of the parts that depict ancient Russia. So when they are done with breakfast, they engage in a discussion of possible site visits.

'I am an extremely proud Russian,' Aleska warns, 'so excuse me in advance if I sound like an impassioned tour guide,' she smirks.

Stone laughs, casually draping his arm around her neck as they plan their itinerary. 'I expect nothing less Madam Tour Guide.'

'Good,' Aleska draws closer to him on the sofa.

She rattles of a few places they could cover over the weekend. Stone is eager and can't wait to get started. They hop into his rental vehicle and begin their weekend of adventure.

'This city is Kazan,' Aleska informs Stone. 'It is regarded as the oldest capital city. It is also a World Heritage Site.'

'It looks quite an economic hub,' Stone observes.

'Yeah,' Aleska nods. 'See that area,' she points. 'It hosts one of the largest Information Technology parks in Russia. It happens to be one of the largest of its kind among Eastern Europe Science Parks,' Aleska brags proudly.

Stone laughs hearing the hint of pride in her voice. She is truly a proud citizen of her beloved country. He hopes she will love her adoptive country when they return to England.

'Tell me more,' Stone invites.

'Kazan is officially called 'the third capital of Russia,' she supplies. 'The city is over a 1000 years old and the core of the old city is still preserved in the centre of the city.'

'It is an amazing sight to behold,' Stone marvels appreciatively.

'You know what is more amazing?' Aleska adds, 'Architecture lovers can also see how Christianity and Islam peacefully coexist here in Kazan.'

'I wish the rest of the world could learn from her,' Stone murmurs.

Aleska smiles up into Stone's face. 'Then there will be no war and no need for soldiers.'

'No! Then I would never have me you,' he grins.

'Oh destiny might have had you wandering in these parts and rescuing a damsel in distress,' she teases.

Stone laughs remembering their first encounter. 'Damsel you may have been, but hardly in distress,' he dips his head attempting to kiss her lips.

Aleska shifts away, though she does reach out her hand, lacing her fingers through his. Stone reminds himself that in the Amazon, she was also uncomfortable with openly being affectionate. He is aware that PDA is frowned upon in some parts of the world and clearly Aleska was not comfortable with too much intimacy in public. She looks up into his eyes. They share an intimate smile.

They drive around St Petersburg. Aleska gives him a brief history lesson informing Stone, it is Russia's second largest city. It is regarded as the Northern capital of the country. Aleska leads Stone along Nevsky Prospect. They stroll about, watch the bridges being raised. Stone is in awe of the grandeur of pre-revolutionary imperial Russia. Aleska points to all the palaces from the past. They gaze at the famous and picturesque embankment of the Neva River with its numerous bridges and striking architecture.

'Would you like to take a boat out on the Neva? It's beautiful and navigable now though more stunning in winter when you can watch the sunset when the river is covered with ice.'

'Yes. Let's do a boat ride,' Stone agrees.

He is awestruck at the splendour of the impressive architecture. Every building is well maintained, exquisite and timeless. Stone is disappointed when the boat ride is over.

They stop for pizza and cool drinks at a café. As he devours lunch, Stone is keen to know of the next attractions they're heading to. When lunch is done, he discards their empty lunch packages into the disposable bins and leads Aleska out again. Stone exploits every opportunity, taking advantage when it presents itself to touch her. His arm lingers at her waist. She is not immune. Stone hears her soft sigh, feels her subtle leaning, closer to his body.

They're walking leisurely hand-in-hand, when Aleska probes. 'So do you know any of the famous names in the art world?'

'I know one or ... three,' Stone laughs.

'It is my pleasure to introduce you to the Hermitage Premier Museum,' Aleska waves gallantly. 'In here you will find the largest art collections in the world.'

Stone raises an eyebrow disbelievingly. 'It rivals the collections at Buckingham Palace and Paris' Louvre?'

'They have nothing on the Hermitage,' Alaska dismisses with a trace of offence. 'I'll have you know, the museum consists of five historical buildings including the famous Winter Palace; the residence of the Russian Tsars.'

Stone whistles disbelievingly. He raises his head up high to scan the height of the impressive and vast building.

'Do you know this museum contains over 3 million pieces of art?'

Stone shrugs in response.

'Let me educate you on the treasures that are on display here,' Aleska boasts. 'We have works of Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Rubens; including Matisse and Picasso and many others.'

Stone laughs uneasily. He scratches his head. 'I'm ashamed to confess I don't even know all the names you're mentioning.'

'Just note it's more impressive that your Buckingham Palace,' she teases, biting on her lower lip.

'I'll take your word for it,' he smiles.

They spend a considerable amount of hours in the museum, with Stone absorbing as much as he can. It is almost evening when Aleska leads him to a special place.

'So this is the famous Winter Palace?' Stone asks with heightened enthusiasm.

The Winter Palace is situated between the Palace Embankment and Palace Square. It was the official residence of the Russian monarchs. It is breadth-taking architecture as its splendid best. .

'I saved this for last,' Aleska smiles. They are at the central city square. It is best to see at night. You know St Petersburg is also known the "Venice of the North" due to its extensive system of canals and islands and also the backstreets have much to see as in Venice itself.'

'I've heard many people say so,' Stone reflects thoughtfully.

'It comes alive at night,' Aleska tells Stone. 'It's a favourite spot for young adults. And there have been lots of open-air concerts. Some of the world's best performing artists have played here. The Rolling Stones; Shakira; Madonna, her voices goes softer. 'Dedushka brought me here to see Andrea Bocelli,' she adds nostalgically.

Instinctively his arms wraps around her waist. 'His performance must have been electrifying,' Stone's eyes are gentle, comforting; his arms supportive.

'Yes,' she nods. 'It was magical.'

And Stones senses it was not the concert that had been magical, but the treasured moments with her grandfather. He longs to take her pain away. Wishes he can concoct a magical potion, but he knows it is only time that will heal Aleska's bereaved heart and he plans to be there for her and shower her with all the love he can.

'Shall I tell you of Russia's greatest hangover?' Aleska makes a concerted effort to lift her spirits.

'Yes,' Stone smiles, cocking his ear attentively.

'It was in the year 1905. It was called the Bloody Sunday massacre. Many grieved but unarmed demonstrators marched toward the Winter Palace, but they were brutally fired upon,' her voice grew softer. 'Needless to say it started a revolution. Later that same year, the palace's prized vintage cellars were stormed by a detachment of soldiers and sailors.' Aleska smiles as she continues to narrate. 'On a less glorious note, the month-long looting of the palace's coveted wine cellars during this troubled period led to what has been described as 'the greatest hangover in our history.'

Stone laughs, shaking his head. 'That must have been one long celebration.'

'You can imagine it,' she grins.

It is late evening. Aleska is not even remotely tired. Just being with Stone is pure bliss and an absolute pleasure. He has been a keen and attentive student. Aleska cannot wait to be within the confines of her home. She yearns for some intimacy with Stone. He is acutely perceptive, sensing her train of thought.

'Why don't we grab some takeout dinner and head back to your place,' he suggests.

'Yes. Tomorrow, we shall see some of Novgorod Veliky, a true Russian town. It is Old Russia. You will like it. It's a combination of present, past and future,' she laughs.

'I can't wait,' he smiles broadly.

'We will eat country style food, home- made lemonade and Novgorod has the best ice creams in Russia.

'Don't talk of food. I'm starving,' Stone groans softly.

Aleska laughs. 'Novgorod has a historic cathedral, which was built way back in the 11th century,' she tells Stone. 'It also holds the remains of six Russian saints.'

'How can one country be so rich in her history?' Stones questions in amazement.

Aleska smiles proudly. 'I'll even show you some quaint dachas.'

'Old fashioned houses?' Stones asks.

She nods, as she points to a café where they can get their dinner. 'They line quite a stretch of the road between Novgorod and St Petersburg. And some of them are beautifully painted.'

'I must remember my camera,' Stone mentions as they scan the menu. 'Can we start rather early?' he asks enthusiastically.

'Sure,' she agrees, also eager to continue the road trip with him. 'Stone, I really am in the mood for a greasy cheese burger,' she laughs.

'Cheese burgers they are,' he concurs. 'He orders fries to go with the burgers, and something sweet for dessert before they head back to Aleska's place for another ecstasy filled night of passion and indulgence.

            -end chapter twenty one-