Better Left Unsaid

Chapter 11

“What took you so long?” Ana asked after opening the front door. “Get in. The food is ready.”

“Good evening everyone.” Victor and Olga greeted.

“Hey there, kiddo.” Victor kissed Lena’s cheek.

“Hello,” She giggled. “Now enough with the talking and let’s dig in.” She grabbed her fork as she looked at the food in front of her with hungry eyes, making everyone laugh.

“So, Victor, how was work?” Ana asked.

“It was--” He took a dramatic pause before saying “terrible”

“Why? What happened?” Nikolay asked.

“I had this little fight with The Boss. It wasn’t a big deal, but it kind of bummed me out. I hate arguing with the people I care about.”

“What was it about?”

“Larisa.” Everyone stopped eating and looked at him, confusingly.

“Um,” Ana started. “W-why were you fighting about Larisa?” Her voice came out weak.

“It was a misunderstanding. I’m sure we’ll figure it out tomorrow. I just--I don’t like talking about it.” He replied.

“Yeah, sure. I—we—thought it would make you feel better. Let’s just drop it and talk about something else, okay?” She asked.

“Agreed.” He said, raising his glass. They all did the same. They talked about lots of stuff, laughed, argued, and simply enjoyed each other’s company.

“So, Ana, how’s the whole pregnancy thing going?” Victor, Ana, and Nikolay tried not to choke on their drinks. “Are you getting tired?”

“Well, Olga, I’m feeling like hell, but it’s totally worth it. And Nikolay here is being a great helper, and of course, our little princess, too.” She said, gesturing to Lena who gave her a smile.

“Of course, he will. I mean, it’s his baby after all. Am I right?” Nikolay looked at Ana who threw him a little glare.

“Yup, that’s right. I am the father of this child. Not anyone else. No one but me. It’s moi, in French.” He giggled nervously, after he finished ranting, which caused him to earn another sharp look from Ana, who placed a hand on her forehead and shook her head unpleased.

“Dear, if you need anything, you give me a call. Of course, I will be here most of the time, but I mean if I’m not around.”

“Thanks, Olga.” She smiled at her.

+++

“So, have you talked to him yet?” Enzo asked.

“He hasn’t come yet,” The Boss said. “I told you don’t worry about it.” A knock was heard on the door and Victor’s head popped out.

“Good morning, Boss. Can I get in?” He asked, firmly.

“Ah, Cherlin, just the man I wanted to see. Listen, I’ll talk to you later. Send someone there to check the place then call me back.” He faked the conversation.

“Sit down, Victor.” He said after hanging up the phone.

“Look, about yesterday, I—”

“I know, I know. Me too,” He interrupted him.  “I wanted to apologize. I shouldn’t have said that to you. Larisa’s death was such a tragedy to all of us and I was really mad about it.”

“I know. I lost my temper and yelled at you because I just can’t believe that she’s actually gone. It just happened so fast and I’m having a hard time coping with her death.” Victor continued.