"Semi-Short Stories" [ Story Collection ]

The Trial [] 11/12 []

It had been four days since Cosmin visited the Swan residence for the first time. Max had introduced him to everyone in the home by then, and they were especially hoping that he and Mal would get along (for obvious reasons). That was partially why they decided against suggesting this to Mal - they weren't sure how well they'd get along and they had to admit, they wanted to avoid the awkward boyfriend-and-dad talks.

"You should come to Romania with me."

"So you've decided to go, then."

It was already clear that Matthew and Cosmin got along decently. And considering this is an easy way to avoid those awkward conversations...

"Yeah. I like him, and I want to meet my grandparents. He said we'll leave as soon as we're ready to go."

"But why aren't you asking Mal?"

"Because he's my boyfriend and Cosmin is my dad, not to mention he's more awkward than I am, so I don't want him to ask any weird questions."

"And who knows what his parents are like. Maybe they'd ask even more uncomfortable questions."

Max is in the middle of packing a suitcase. "Exactly! I don't think they'll ask you weird questions. And if they do, I wouldn't feel as awkward since we're not dating."

Matt nods. "I hope Abby will be okay with both of us gone. He doesn't even like that you have a job now, so surely he's not going to like this very much. How long will we be gone?"

Max shrugs. "I'm not sure. He said that he needs to pack and that it will take a bit longer than it would have had he realized he'd be moving before he got here. I think his parents are going to move, too, but I'm not entirely sure. I don't know if I can take that much time off of work since I just got the job, so I'll probably come back sooner if I have to." They frown and look towards Matt. "I hope Abby won't be upset."

"I guess we could always...bring him with us."

Max grimaces. "I'd love to bring him, but knowing how often he runs off and does whatever he pleases...he could easily get lost. He knows his way around this area, but Cluj-Napoca? I'd rather him be here, where he's safe."

"That's probably for the best. But there's one more problem..."

"What?"

"I can't speak Romanian."

"I can be your translator."

"But what if I get lost?"

Max laughs. "Don't make me have to worry about your safety, too."

"Can you at least teach me how to ask where the bathroom is?"

"Uh-huh, yeah. Sure. It's plimba ursul."

"Ha. I don't believe you."

"That's probably wise."