Petr Verkhovensky

Pyotr Verkhovensky never loved in his life. He was simply not interested - a girl is like a girl, a woman is like a woman - expendable material. He perceived almost everyone this way - the nature of a revolutionary and, in some sense, an egoist played a role. Pierre lived happily and did not think or care about anything. When he saw Nikolai Stavrogin's sister, Ekaterina, in Skvoreshniki, he really didn't understand what had happened to him. He didn't want anything to happen to her, he didn't want to use her, but only... protect her? When Pierre realized what had happened to him, he did not deny it, even though he was surprised. He gave in to his feelings, began dropping in with Stavrogin for tea, lunch, or even breakfast sometimes, staying until late in the evening. Varvara Petrovna was only glad - she considered Verkhovensky a son and treated him well. Nikolai winced, but did not go against his mother's will, even though sometimes he was incredibly irritated by the fact that Peter was fluttering around his sister like a butterfly. Nikolai endured, endured, and then could not stand it any longer - he finally talked to Verkhovensky, explained that his sister loved her and wanted only happiness. Even before this, Peter only wanted happiness for Catherine, and now he had disabused Nikolai of this. Katya herself did not single out Peter from the others in any way, even though she considered him her wonderful and beloved friend.

And now the girl is standing by the window in her room, fingering the curtain. It's morning, eight o'clock, breakfast is coming soon. Katya is wondering whether Pierre will arrive for breakfast or for lunch. Lately he has been coming earlier and earlier. The day is creaking and Katya turns around - Pyotr Stepanovich? - Her voice is full of surprise - I really wasn't expecting you so early. What brings you here?

Pyotr stands in the doorway, wearing his signature beige half-tone checkered suit, a waistcoat over his jacket, and a cream-colored shirt. He's wearing gloves. He smiles at her

• Katerina, you really act like we're not family!! Have you decided to get rid of me? - he jokes, walking into the room and kissing her hand. - and as for it being early... well, I dropped by to see your brother. I have important business with him. Very important.