A Game of Ordeal

Chapter eight

"Alex, oh my, why don't you just order a few pizzas instead of fussing around so much?" Kristina laughed melodiously, glancing around the kitchen from every angle.

"That wouldn't be any fun. Only for you, if I leave the dishes." A loud laugh escaped the blond boy's lips as he laid out all the ingredients on the large kitchen table. He knew he had a lot of cooking ahead of him and couldn't wait to start.

"Just try. I dare you." Her green eyes rolled, but despite her apparent annoyance, she smiled warmly again. The boy smiled back broadly and winked, a playful tease.

Kristina and Alexey were preparing for a long-awaited getaway to Loveland – a place that always brought back memories of peace and romance. This time, however, was particularly special because it would be just the two of them, far from daily responsibilities and the fast pace of life. Two days of complete harmony awaited them, filled with warm emotions, laughter, and plenty of love. They hadn't had the chance to travel alone for a long time, and now they would fully immerse themselves in every moment of this journey, enjoying each other's company as the new landscapes embraced them with their beauty.

Meanwhile, Alexander, sensing the opportunity, decided to use the time while his parents were away to celebrate his latest success. With his usual excitement and a smile on his face, he gathered his closest friends to mark the achievement, which meant a great deal to him. For Alexander, every victory wasn't just a reason for joy but a moment for a ritual he had adopted as his own – to celebrate success with those who supported him the most. He believed this would bring good fortune and happiness on his path forward, sharing his joy with the people who made his accomplishments even more valuable.

"What's on the menu today, Alex?" Kristina began to ask curiously, and the young boy confidently replied:

"The salad will be 'Green Goddess'." His blue eyes turned toward her again, and a slight tinge of envy appeared on her face – it was her favorite salad. "For appetizers, I've decided on mozzarella sticks and deviled eggs."

"That sounds wonderful, Alex," Kristina was charmed by his choices. "Don't forget to add some green onions to the eggs... and you could also top them with a little salmon. What's the main course?"

"For the main, I chose cheeseburgers with spicy fries. I'll make a soy-garlic mayo as a sauce."

"Great choice. I wish you luck and... please, wash your dishes."

Alexander laughed heartily and pulled her into a warm hug – he knew very well he'd leave Antoine to handle that task and quietly smirked.

At that moment, the firm footsteps of Alexey echoed through the house, accompanied by the steps of Terry, who faithfully followed him everywhere – his little eyes were sad and thoughtful because he sensed his owners were about to leave. The man began petting the animal's head gently, but his sea-blue eyes remained fixed on Kristina – to him, she was wonderful and tender, as eager as a sweet little child.

"Darling, everything's ready. Shall we go?" The man placed a soft kiss on his girlfriend's cheek and pulled her into his arms.

At that moment, Antoan appeared around the corner of the cozy kitchen, which would soon be filled with the aroma of delicious dishes. His smile lit up his face, ready for the upcoming preparations and the fun that always accompanied such moments. His black hair slightly fell over his forehead as he joined his brother Alexander with a light step, who had already gathered all the necessary ingredients for dinner.

"Ready to poison everyone?" Antoan joked, clapping his hands, excited for the cooking ahead. Alexander laughed and nodded approvingly.

The oil for the mozzarella sticks was already prepared, the vegetables – fresh and ready to be chopped for the salad, and the burgers were just waiting for the brothers' careful attention.