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Yeah, course

“In Russia, lunch is the most important meal of the day, not dinner," Nikolai’s sister, Elena, explained as she handed nize

Despite it being a workday, the entire fah small, was lively Since the majority of the conversation took place in Russian, I prettythat was said But I didn't need to speak the language to know that the members of the Falkov faether

The best part atching Nikolai soften and relax around his fa the sound of his laughter But , I adored the way he interacted with his niece and nephew As big and tough as he was, there was no doubting that the children held his heart And why shouldn't they? They were sweet, funny, and kind

As I took one of what Elena had called cabbage rolls, I couldn’t help but steal another glance at Nikolai as seated next to his mother I didn'tst themselves It made me anxious to think that I was the topic of conversation, but it wasn't like I could do anything about it

I figured Nikolai was probably telling his ht at his place

"Don't worry, it's all good," I heard Elena say as she leaned in close to me

I had enough sense to finish chewing my food before I responded with, "What is?"

"Those two," she said with a nod in herthe third degree about you"

"The third degree?” I asked stupidly

"How long has he known you, what do you do, he’d better not let you get away…"

I jerked my eyes in Elena’s direction This time I nearly did spit out some food as I said, "Oh no, you don't understand, it isn't like that" I kept h that Nikolai wouldn't hear me

"You sound certain of that," Elena said softly

I dropped my eyes to my plate and then nodded "I'm just a job"