Alexei nodded his head, knowing that Nikolai was right. He knew that he had a darker nature, and it was a lot closer to the surface than he liked to admit. But ultimately, it would be his choice as to whether Ingrid saw that in him.  He smiled, standing with his friend, unable to help the small laugh when Nikolai suggested sneaking off to the library for a drink.<br/><br/>"As tempting as the offer is, my friend, I think I will have to refuse," he knew this would surprise the other man, and felt he needed to explain before he had him arrested as an imposter. Alexei's brow furrowed in confusion. "I have some thoughts I'm dealing with at the moment," he began, not sure how to convey what he was thinking. "I know the vodka will flow fully tonight, but I can't help but feel as if I should go into this with a clear head. No matter how much my instincts are telling me to drown my sorrows," he smiled awkwardly, hoping his friend would understand.<br/><br/>"Lady DeWarren?" Alexei shook his head adamantly when Nikolai suggested he bed her on his last night of freedom. "I think not. I understand she experienced a trauma, but she dismissed me like a common stable boy in my own house. In front of baba, no less," he sighed. "It is because of that trauma, I chose to let it go, but at this moment, Princess Ingrid's company is looking far more enticing that that of our beautiful cabin boy."