North Meets South

Story: North Meets South: When World's Collide

Chapter: 12 Sasha

Author: Eric McQueen (mcqueen.richarderic@gmail.com)

Mature Readers only due to sexual situations and graphic sexual content

Freedom of expression is precious. To do that Nifty needs help. Your donation is greatly desired. Give to http://donate.nifty.org/ or this story ends and all the others! That would be a crime!

Sasha takes up Mitch's and Tony's invitation to come by and visit. Sasha asks a favor and a whole new romance possibility begins.

Sasha

A Catholic funeral was new for me, but I went as I should. I knew from history and other sources that...gone were the sermons in Latin and now the priests were saying what was necessary in English. There was an elegance in the service I will readily admit. The two caskets held two very good people that I could see had touched a lot of people. Those people were there. Again, I was family and included as such. I sat beside Tony and Louise. The rest of the family covered a whole pew. Angelo and Kathleen had a lot of people as family alive here. Tears came again, but this was just sorrow for the loss of two precious people that would be missed.

In the end, the two caskets were taken outside to the waiting hearses and I was asked to be a bearer which I gladly did, as did Al, Mike, David, and Drew that were family and others as needed. We drove to St. John's and I was impressed with the white building that Kathleen and Angelo were being placed. The graveside service was short and I was asked again to help put a casket in its resting place. The line of cars that had come with us was long, but once done, they began to leave to resume their places in the living world.

I was waiting for Tony to finish talking with some people that had known him and his parents. There was no hurry. Melissa came up to me. Her usual bouncy self was subdued, of course.

"You know there's a place for you here," Melissa said pointing at the mausoleum.

That was surprising. "What?" Then I shook my head. "No, I couldn't. First, I'm not Catholic. They wouldn't let me through the gate once I was dead."

Melissa smiled. "You are a Delveccio. They can't deny that."

"Sure, they can," I said. "Trust me, they will."

Melissa frowned. "It's a damned shame." Then she brightened. "When gay marriage becomes legal...."

I shook my head. "I don't really see...."

"No!" Melissa stopped me. "It will. Look at Massachusetts. They're already allowing gay marriage. There are other states falling in with them. It won't be too long before it is nationwide."

I had heard that it was now in some states. Canada had been first to allow gay marriage, but it was only in a few provinces. "Even if that becomes true, this is still a Catholic cemetery. You must be Catholic to be buried here."

Melissa shrugged. "So, become a Catholic. You're a church going person. Does it matter what church you belong to? If just in name only, become a Catholic and there's another hurdle you don't have to jump across."

I kissed her on the cheek. "It won't be me when they bury me. I really don't care what they do. Throw me in a ditch, I won't be there."

Melissa nodded. "Tony will care. You know he will." Then she smiled again. "Just think about it." Then she went off to join her cousins.

This was something to think about. It would mean more to Tony if I were there. Who knew who would die first? I'd like us to go together, but it was more likely one would go before the other. If I went before Tony did he'd make sure I was here. I hoped that would be a while yet, but...

Later when we got back to the house Tony sighed wearily and plopped on the sofa. His head falling back on the sofa. I grinned at him as I sat beside him.

"It was a very nice service."

Tony smiled raising his head again. "It was. Mama would have been pleased. Papa wouldn't have cared." He chuckled at his father's opinion.

"I'm not rushing things," I said, "But do you want me to become Catholic?"

Tony looked surprised at that. "Why? You're a Christian." Then he shrugged. "Then again, I wouldn't have cared if you were Jewish or even Buddhist or even atheist."

I nodded. "Yes, but in order to be buried in the Delveccio mausoleum won't I have to be Catholic?"

He looked again surprised but smiled. "You want to be buried with us?"

I shook my head with a chuckle. "I don't want to be buried at all, but we don't have a choice about that. I want to be with you always. If I become a Catholic I can get buried here with you." Then I shrugged. "Personally, I'd love it if we were both cremated and put in the same urn." I grinned at his roll of eyes. "Well, that would mean we really were together. Literally. Shake it up and mix us completely." Then I laughed. "The ultimate sexual experience, we'd be totally blended."

Tony chuckled. "I guess it would." He shrugged. "Or they could just put us in the same casket. We'd be a first if they did." Then he thought. "I think."

I smiled he was taking all this well. I kissed him. "I just don't want to have someone come by, reading all the names until they come to me. I'm not legally a Delveccio. The question will be who am I and why is a non-Italian Southerner in with all these Delveccio Yankee Catholics!"

Tony grinned. "We could have it on a plaque explaining, or you could become a Delveccio."

I hadn't considered that either. "I could." I agreed.

"I was kidding!" Tony said urgently. "I'd love for you to be a Delveccio, but you're a McKenzie!"

I nodded. "I am, but I'm not going to pass it to anyone." I looked at Tony. "Unless you plan to have another child with me, which biologically is impossible. It's just you and me for now. I would change the name. Of course, I'd have to tell Dad, but I think he's disappointed we won't have children. The name was really meant to be passed down. Who am I passing it to?"

"We could have a child," Tony said shrugging. "We'd have to bring in someone else..."

"Or adopt, but we've got time to think about that. No rush."

Louise and Mike came in then. I kissed Tony and rose. "Is anyone hungry?" Remembering all the visits we'd gotten and all the dishes people brought. We had a ton of food all over the kitchen in Tupperware, covered dishes and bowls. "I could throw in a casserole or something."

Louise smiled nodding. "I'll help you. We'll start with whatever Mrs. Doris Deluca brought. She's the best cook for me."

The wills were read and all three children were given the property and the money was evenly distributed to all the grandchildren. No disputes about who got what. It was decided we'd keep the house for now. Things would be shut down as much as possible, but it would be used as a meeting place whenever Tony and I or Louise and Mike came to town. Tony insisted they get a security system when in the past Angelo refused to even consider one. He was always afraid he'd always set it off. Kathy and Al had to agree because they were in town and the contact people. That was for the best because no one wanted to disturb what the Delveccios had spent a lifetime accumulating. There was history here in this house. Tony contacted a company he knew in New York and had a system installed and Kathy, Louise, and Tony would pay to keep it going with routine visits by security guards.

In many ways, I was more than ready to go home. It wasn't that I didn't like New York, Queens, or Manhattan. I did, but we needed to go home. Nick flew back to Charleston first. Then Louise, Mike, Drew, Erin, Marcus, and their baby went back to Canada. Whew! That was a lot of people! Then Tony and I were alone in the house he'd grown up in. We sat in the living room as the TV droned. As always, I kept an eye on Tony. He was fine. He was looking around the house.

"I'm sure it's just me, but..." he said. "The place just feels different now that Mama and Papa are gone."

I nodded. "They left a big void. Sure, it's different."

Tony did take me to a show and we did dine out before we returned to Charleston. I was happy that Tony didn't have the need to get some new clothes this time. Maybe what I'd said that night we reconnected had worked, but I'd wait and see.

Soon we were boarding a plane and flying home.

Entering the condo, it almost felt almost alien we'd been gone so long.

"We're home," Tony said coming behind me and putting his arms around me. His face was going into the soft places on my neck I loved him to go. Then he turned me around. "You were a rock for me these past few weeks. I would not have made it so well if you weren't with me."

"I know you'll be with me in all tough situations. How could I not be here with you? You're important to me."

Tony grinned as he chuckled. "You've proven your point." He rubbed the face I had slapped. "Pretty forcefully."

"You needed convincing," I growled.

"I'm convinced!" Tony chuckled putting a little more distance between us while protecting his face. "I don't need more."

I grinned knowing what he was doing. "Tony, I had to get your attention, you weren't listening. I told you'd I'd kiss whatever and did. Gladly." I walked toward him as he backed up. "Do I need to do it again?"

Tony smiled. "Maybe."

I pushed him backward toward our bedroom. "Let's not waste time. Come on, Studman."

It was great to be home.

Alan was thrilled when I returned to the hotel. Then I threw myself into my work and school. I turned thirty-three and Tony turned thirty-nine, his last year in what he thought was his youth. Ha! Nick graduated and was thinking about what he was going to do next. The many cousins I had on Dad's side were getting older and more involved with their own lives. David did visit once, but mostly the cousins connected through email and messaging. I refused to ever Facebook. What I liked was that Eric, Seth, Scott, and Glenn were true to their words. They emailed and called even! Sasha surprised me. He hadn't been exaggerating when he said he'd keep in touch to increase his tip. He did!! I was getting pictures from all the ports he'd got to. Speaking English he did very well when he was sober. Writing it, I had to interpret what he wrote some times. It just added to his charm. Eric and Seth were adopting a couple of little boys, brothers who'd lost their mother who was a friend who insisted they get the boys before she died. They were thrilled! Sad that they'd lost their mother, but thrilled they were getting two little boys. Then it came. Sasha was at the end of his contract with....whatever company he'd worked for on the ship. He asked if he could come by and see us. I was glad to have him and I forwarded the message to Tony who was also glad to have him come. I emailed him back saying we'd love to have him. He told us when he was flying in and we were at the airport when he got there.

Sasha was a big man, but he didn't look like the man that had been our waiter. The waiter had been dressed nicely and hair combed and all that. The man that exited that little tunnel thing looked....well...relaxed! He was still a big man, but his bronze-brown hair was disarrayed and he had a slight growth of a beard he hadn't shaved in a couple of days. He wore jeans and a t-shirt with a bag he'd thrown over his shoulder. I grinned at what I saw. I liked this Sasha! Sasha's eyes widened as he saw us and his smile widened.

"My friends!!" He said in a booming voice as he threw his arms out and came over to us in a hurry.

I got to him first, so I got the first hug and then Tony.

"Sasha, you're as handsome as ever!" I said grinning at him.

"And look very comfortable." Tony chuckled.

Sasha grinned. "Yes, now that I'm not waiting tables and all...chlam, I kind of let myself take it easy a few days." He used a Russian word I could only guess what it meant in context of the sentence. His Russian accented English was also his charm.

"I see that," Tony grinned rubbing Sasha's beard a bit.

Sasha chuckled rubbing his own face. "I shave when it itch. Which will be any moment now."

"Do you have any other luggage?" I asked.

Sasha nodded. "I have one suitcase." Then we headed toward baggage claim. "Thank you for agreeing to have me. I will only stay a few days, maybe a week. Until I decide what do next."

Tony slapped him on the back. Why do guys do that? "Stay as long as you need to, Sasha. You're a dear friend. We've got plenty of room."

Sasha looked at the car Tony and I drove in with a little appreciation but kept his mouth shut. When we opened to door to the condo, he couldn't do that anymore. He said another word in Russian I had no idea but got the feeling it was like my god. "This is..." he said a word in Russian I didn't get again. English and Italian were my languages, I don't have to remind you. "....castle? Palace?" He looked back at the two of us to see if he used the right word or....I don't know.

"It's our home." I smiled patting him on the back. "I'll show you where your room is."

"Wait!" Sasha spun suddenly. "I need to tell you." He wasn't very comfortable doing this. "Why I come here. I don't want you to think bad about me."

Tony nodded. "Okay."

"I knew you had money. More than the others." Then he saw Tony's face and hurried on. "I'm not thief or anything. I knew you may be able help me."

"Help with what, Sasha?" I asked.

"I want to work here," Sasha said. "In America. I have VISA to work if I find work. Russia is getting better, but..." he scratched his head. "I work the ship and send most back to raise my son."

Tony nodded. "And?" Sasha looked a little confused at that, "...that's so you'll tell us the rest." Tony explained.

"Oh, I want to bring my son here." Sasha said. "Tasha is good mother, but she needs help. I send money, but she need break. My son will have better opportunity here." He motioned to our condo. "Now, I know I was right. You have knowledge maybe; you can help me? Tell me where I need to go, see, and get a job. Bring son here."

Tony's eye squinted, but I saw there was a glimmer. He was going into joking mode. "I don't know, Mitch. If he's trying con us, he's lousy at it."

And me being who I am, I couldn't help it. "Or he's so good he's giving us this to make it seem like he's terrible at it."

Tony nodded. "Could be." Then he shrugged. "Either he's completely trustworthy or a very, very good liar. What do you say, Mitch?"

"I am telling no lie!" Sasha said urgently, pleading we believe him.

I walked over to Sasha and hugged him again. "Relax, Sasha. We're joking with you." I confessed with a grin. "Of course, we'll help you. We'd love to help you. That's what having friends are for."

I watched as Sasha noticeably relaxed and blew a breath of relief. "I worried."

Tony grinned hugging Sasha. "That's just our way. Joking with friends is what we do. Now quit worrying. You stay as long as you need. You're more than welcome."

Sasha shook his head. "I help out. You know I can serve, but I can clean while I'm here. I don't want to...." He used another word in Russian.

I had to guess. "Freeload?" I asked.

Sasha shrugged. "I don't know that word, but I'll say yes. I know free, but I know I can't stay free. I work."

"That'll be fine." I nodded grinning. "Upstairs. Come on." I grabbed his suitcase and we went upstairs.

Sasha again we true to his word. He asked where things were, I told him and he started cleaning! That was on his first day! I had enough time off so I went to work, but I asked Alan about this situation.

"And you trust him?" Alan asked.

"He's to be a good friend." I shrugged. "He was so worried we might not he told us everything. At the front door! He's a good waiter. We're talking five-star quality work. He's friendly, likable and he's good looking. He plays for both teams so he can flirt with everyone."

Alan shrugged. "If you trust him, who am I to say otherwise. Do what you need to."

When I got home Sasha was there cleaning the oven. I hadn't noticed it needed to be. I mentally shrugged and went to where Sasha where he was working. The condo smelled nice and looked spotless. Maybe we should keep him as a domestic. The fumes from the oven were a little thick.

"Sasha, buddy." I greeted my Russian friend.

"Hi, Mitch." Sasha smiled and came up for air. "The smell is bad here." He inhaled deeply. "Strong."

I nodded. "Well, thanks for doing it. Can you take a break and talk to me?"

Sasha nodded. "Sure."

"First. What do you want to be first? A friend that works for us or an employee that's a friend?"

Sasha's eyes were confused. "I do not understand. Always I wish to be friends, so I chose friend that works."

I took his rag away. "Then stop this!" I tossed the rag over my shoulder causing Sasha to chuckle. "You'll show me up to Tony."

"I not stay here and do nothing but watch TV." Sasha grinned with a shrug. "I look things to do."

"If you do much more, I'll make you wear a French maid's uniform!" I growled.

Sasha squinted an eye. "You are again joking."

"Keep doing this and you'll find out," I grunted. "Now, I've worked it out for you to get a job."

Now Sasha's eyes widened. "A job!? Where?"

"Here, in Charleston. The hotel I manage has a restaurant. If you're interested, I could set it up."

"I would work for you?" Sasha asked a little wary.

"No." I grinned. "That would be awkward. Not that I'd mind you working for me, but we're friends first you said. No, the restaurant is independently owned. We do have a say on who's hired and fired, but I don't run it. Therefore, I wouldn't be your boss....technically. I can fire you if need be, but I don't think that will be a problem. I've been a customer of yours and you were perfect at waiting tables. You'll be working for Jeremy Carlson. He's a good man about forty-five. He's a stickler for punctuality and his wait staff to be good. I don't think that will be a problem for you. You'll make good tips, I'm sure."

Now Sasha smiling very widely now. "I knew I'd be okay if you help me." Then he held his hand out. "There is some papers that need to be signed and sent. I'll get them." He started off and then stopped. He came back and hugged me tightly. "Thank you, Mitch." Then I grinned as he took the stairs two at a time.

That's when Tony came home. "Hi, honey, I'm home!" Then his nose wrinkled as he looked around. "What did he do? It smells good, then it doesn't."

I chuckled. "He was cleaning the oven." I thumbed back to the oven. "I stopped him."

"It's self-cleaning!" Tony came over.

I patted him on the chest. "Don't say anything, he's trying to be helpful. Frankly, I think he doesn't read English that well."

"He speaks fine." Tony frowned.

"Have you seen the Russian alphabet? He probably didn't know what self-cleaning meant." Then I kissed him. "Oh, and I'm getting him a job at the restaurant at the hotel."

Sasha came down jumping the last few steps holding the papers. "Hi, Tony! Mitch is getting me job!"

Tony grinned at the man. Sasha's happiness was almost felt in the air. "He was telling me."

Sasha was very happy. "I get to stay!"

I took the forms Sasha needed to have filled out and promised to deliver them in the morning. Then I turned to Sasha. "You need to clean up and change."

Sasha still reeling over being able to work and stay frowned. "Why?" He asked looking down at himself.

Tony chuckled. "You can go out to eat with us like that if you like, but I'd prefer you didn't smell like oven cleaner." Then Tony was frowning. "Where did you get the oven cleaner anyway? We didn't have it here."

Sasha nodded with a grin. "It something my grandmother made when she cleaned. I just made some." Then he grinned again. "I'll go shower."

It was at the restaurant we sat and decided Tony and I needed to get to know our friend better.

"Tell us more about you, Sasha," Tony said. "You are welcome to stay in our home. Say your last name again."

Sasha chuckled. "Lebedev."

"And you have a son. What's his name?" I asked.

"Alik." Sasha grinned thinking of his son. "He is now six." Then he brightened and dug in his pocket and pulled out his wallet. Opening it he shoved some photos at us. "Here. He is five here." He was a very proud papa!

Tony and I looked at a very happy little boy with blonder hair than Sasha's but had a lot of Sasha's features on the happy face.

Sasha turned to another picture. "Here we together." The picture showed Sasha and a very happy Alik who was frozen in mid-squeal. "That was a year and a half ago," Sasha said a little sadly. "I've not been able to see him since."

That bothered me. "Why'd you take the job on the ship?"

"Money. I make more on ship than in Moscow." Sasha shrugged. "When the Soviet Union's government collapsed, things were bad money wise. I had joined the marines while the Soviet Union was still in power. Just before it fell." He shrugged. "I needed work, so I stay ten years. I get out after I meet Tasha and she tell me she's pregnant." He shook his head. "It was stupid, but she was a nice woman, but she didn't love me." Then he shook his head again. "I didn't love her, but when Alik was born, I had to...." he thought, "...work to get money so he could eat. This company came to Moscow hiring to work on cruise ships and looking for people who spoke English." He chuckled. "I learn to speak English from some boys who were from England, America, and Canada. Their fathers were working at embassies in Moscow. My mother clean for them. She would take me when I was younger." He chuckled again. "I learn from them. I take job."

"You were great at it," I said grinning. "It's interesting when you sent me messages, they were in English....sort of."

Sasha chuckled. "We have program on computer on the ship to translate English to Russian and Russian to English. I use that to read your messages and wrote in Russian and had it translated to send. There were words that didn't translate and I had to guess." He looked with a frown and then leaned in as if to tell us something confidential. "English letters are hard to understand. So, I..." he thought again, "...spell what I think you understand." Then he smiled. "You understand?"

I nodded. "You're here."

"Da." Then he grinned. "Yes, I mean."

"We know da for yes. That and Net for no." I grinned back. "That's all I know of Russian."

Sasha laughed. "Okay, well, mostly I translate Russian to my friends, I didn't get much Russian to English. I got job!"

I nodded. "Now it makes more sense now, but you took orders on the ship in English and passed it to...other Russians?"

Sasha nodded. "Most working there were Russian and Ukrainian. After a few months we had....words we use what guests want."

Tony nodded as well. "This menu?" He pointed to the menu in front of Sasha.

"I see picture and tell waiter what I want." Sasha shrugged. "I get better reading English, but not quite comfortable."

"Why do you want to stay in America? Why not go back to Russia?" I asked.

Sasha frowned. "There are groups of men...that get together...to do bad things..." he thought again. "Bratva?"

"You mean mafia?" Tony asked.

"Yes, mafia!" Sasha nodded. "Crime gangs. To make a living you had to do illegal things. They do very bad things. I join the marines to escape them, but Alik is in danger. I have to get him out."

Tony frowned. "From what I've heard they make the Italian Mob seem like boy scouts."

"Is that the case in all of Russia?" I asked.

Sasha shrugged. "In the part of Moscow I live and where Alik is, it is. I could move them another city, but things are still...." He looked for a word again. "Trudny. Bad? Very dangerous."

"Trudny? You mean something like chaotic?" Tony asked.

"Yes! Chaotic!" Sasha nodded firmly. "I believe things will calm soon, but I don't want to wait." Then Sasha looked pleading to us. "I know I am....depend on our maybe friendship...to do this, but..."

"There's nothing maybe about it. We are friends." I put my hand on Sasha's. "Of course, you asked us." I smiled. "We'll say it again. That's what friendship is for. We'll do all we can to help you, Sasha."

"Thank you." Sasha smiled again sadly. "I don't like doing it, but..."

Tony frowned and threw his napkin at Sasha. "Stop it! We're doing it gladly. We like you, Sasha." Then he grinned. "Be warned. Mitch was a cop once. He's pretty sharp about trusting people. He's trusted you almost instantly. I do, too."

Sasha laughed. "I remember badge on figure on cake." Then he brightened. "I'll find place and move out. Promise."

"No, you won't!" I said shaking my head. "If you're bringing Alik here, you need to save as much as you can. You'll stay with us."

Sasha was stunned. It wasn't a request, but a demand. "I can't do that." He said in earnest protest.

"Sure, you can." Tony smiled. "You know we have the room. You're staying. End of discussion."

Sasha just smiled and bowed a little. "Thank you friends. I never forget."

I grinned holding up the menu. "Now, see something you might like? I'll translate for you if you want. They have great hamburgers here."

Sasha chuckled and said a word in Russian that only sort of sounded like any burger, more like Gamburger with his Russian accent on full. "What? I serve food for years, I know what some things are. I want cheeseburger with French fries." And then he said in chizburger I frantsuakly kartofel.

"I got the chiz." Tony nodded with a smile. "Ah, but what kind of chiz?"

"What?" Sasha laughed looking surprised. "It's a hamburger with cheese."

"But what kind of cheese?" I added. "There's mozzarella, Swiss and blue cheese..."

Sasha shook his head. "O moy."

"And the fries, are they ranch fries, sweet potato fries, curly fries...this is gourmet, not fast food." Tony grinned as Sasha looked more surprised and said something in Russian. I was guessing it was damn. You had to love this guy.

"Why so many choices?" Sasha asked picking up the menu and looked more intently.

By the end of our meal, Tony and I knew there was a lot more to Sasha than Sasha let be known to just anyone and never on the ship. Tony and I knew we liked him.

I delivered the needed forms to Jeremy Carlson.

"I don't understand," Jeremy said looking at the papers. "Why are we hiring him? We have plenty of people to pick from in the United States."

I nodded, but not liking his reluctance. "One, because he has experience working in a five-star restaurant. How many waiters and waitresses can say that around here? Two, because he has a personal need to stay here, to do that he must have a job. We're giving him that job. Three, because he's a friend and I asked you to." I frowned. "Is that enough?" I asked folding my arms across my chest, but I wasn't taking anything but the answer yes. "Are we going to have a problem? He's very good, better than anyone here. You're judging him without seeing him."

Jeremy shrugged. "I just wondered why we're getting the Russian a job, that's all."

"As a favor to me then," I said. "Just see if he's as good as I say. You'll see."

Jeremy nodded. "I see most of it's filled out, I just need to add my name and address. Is it okay if I see him work first?"

"Do you do that with the others?"

Jeremy nodded. "I have them with a veteran waiter shadow, yes."

"He'll be here."

"He can do it tomorrow night," Jeremy said. "On trial. He needs that work VISA to actually work."

I touched the papers in his hand I'd given him. "Then get busy."

I took the menu home and went over all the items on the menu with Sasha. Told him what each item was a how to spell it using our alphabet. I also brought home the tickets he would have to fill out so he'd see one. They'd go over the computer Sasha would have to use to let the kitchen know what to make. Variations were inevitable.

"But most of all..." I stressed to Sasha. "If for any reason they ask for something, or you see something you don't understand just ask."

Sasha nodded. "I won't let you down. Or Alik."

I grinned at Sasha. "You won't," I said confidently. "If anyone gives you a problem, let Jeremy know." Then I frowned remembering Jeremy's reaction to the idea of hiring Sasha. "If Jeremy gives you a problem, let me know, but I don't believe he will. You're good. He'll like that."

"How will I get there?" Sasha asked. "I can't drive in America."

I nodded. "I'll come back before dinner and pick you up after work. We'll deal with how you do that after you've blown Jeremy's mind."

Sasha grinned as he nodded. "I will. Why are you and Tony being nice to me?"

"We're friends, Sasha. We really like you."

Sasha nodded. "This is more than I expected. Thank you."

"Quit thanking us, damn it," I growled. "You're practically family now." I gave him a playful shove. "Make the family proud!"

He did. He was by far the best waiter Jeremy had ever had working for him. Sasha even used his lack of understanding about some things in English to charm those he served and they didn't care! He was charming everyone! The waiter assigned to shadow Sasha gave up trying to keep up with Sasha who moved so fast, I was tired from watching. The guests loved him. I watched him for a while before Jeremy came over smiling grandly.

"Where'd you find him?" Jeremy marveled watching Sasha. "Wherever it was, go get more! He's fabulous. He hasn't mistaken a single order!"

I grinned. Sasha was like my child now. I was proud as hell! "Told ya."

"Well, I sent the paperwork in. It will take a few days to get a reply." Jeremy said sighing. "Until he gets that VISA he can't legally work yet." He grinned. "I guess I could prolong his probation to serve again." He chuckled and knew he was going to do it. "To make sure he's as good as he seems."

I grinned back, letting innocence play. "Of course, you have to be sure. He keeps the money he makes, right?

"Absolutely. He's worth every dime."

I came back at the end of the restaurant hours and grinned as Sasha was making sure he gave the guy who had bussed his tables his share of the tips.

Yeah, yeah...he was working illegally on trial probation. He worked hard! Jeremy thought it was good to try him at different times. Weekends were the worst. This was just to be sure he could handle it. Right. Sasha breezed through with no problem. I had seen him carry a tray full of loaded plates onboard the Oosterdam, weaving through a crowded restaurant there with practiced ease dodging over waiters, guests with the finesse of a cat. This restaurant was no challenge.

I worried that Tony might think I was spending too much time with Sasha. Tony was up to something even I didn't know what it was. It was two weeks later when Tony got up from the sofa when Sasha came in with me. It was a busy night for Sasha and I wondered why Tony was still up. I was glad he was, but...

"Sasha." Tony smiled and did that thing with his finger that you didn't need to translate knowing you wanted someone to come over to you. "I know it's late, but can you spare a few minutes?"

"Konehno." Sasha smiled. "Of course." But you could see he was tired.

I looked at Tony wondering what he was up to.

Tony led Sasha to our computer room. "Sit here, please." Tony even pulled his favorite chair for Sasha to sit in. Cushiony and soft, black leather.

Sasha looked at me puzzled, but I didn't know what Tony wanted either but sat as requested.

Tony hit a button on the keyboard. Before us, on the two monitors was the shot of the inside of someone's house. Either an apartment or house, but definitely not in the United States. "Burt, have you gotten him up?"

"Just a second." A voice came back as there were shadows moving, then the side of man could be seen. Behind the man's frame, there was a chair. Beyond that was a coffee table and sofa, a stand with a TV with silly noises in the room that said a children's program was playing. Then the man moved the chair so a little boy could sit in the chair where you could see him. It was Alik! This person Tony called Burt you only saw a man's side and arm as he spoke to the little boy in Russian. The little boy looked confused but looked into the screen. You could see him clearly and heard all that was happening in the room. A woman went to the TV and turned it off so it got quieter. The figure was of a woman, I didn't see the face.

Sasha took a deep breath in shock when he saw Alik. A shaking hand reached out to the screen to touch his son. This was live! Then I saw Sasha's eyes begin to tear as his mouth was open in shock. "Alik," Sasha said in a voice like a prayer. It was almost reverent.

Tony smiled leaning toward Sasha. "I'm sure you talk on the phone with Alik. I thought you might want to see him, too."

Burt was directing Alik to see who was on the screen where he was. I don't know Russian, but everyone knows Daddy when you hear it. I don't care what language is used. The little boy looked, saw who it was and smiled at the unseen camera, but he was smiling at his Daddy. The little boy was still in his pajamas, hair still messed up from sleeping. It was late here, but it was morning in Moscow. The boy's face was angelic as he smiled at Sasha. The boy was now talking more to Sasha, a little more animated as Sasha spoke back. Then Alik was getting excited and went to get something. Then came right back with a toy, apparently, Sasha sent more than just money to his son and former girlfriend. Sasha was now crying more, not bothering to hide it. Sasha smiled as he once again tried to touch his son again. Okay, I was getting choked up as well then! I mean come on; Sasha clearly adored his son! Alik knew who Sasha was and was happy to see him was and now was speaking fast and was more excited as the conversation went on.

Tony touched Sasha's shoulder causing Sasha to look up. "There's no hurry, Sasha. Take your time. Talk to your son." Tony pointed to the image.

Now Sasha was so in disbelief, but crying as he nodded and looked back to see and talk to his son.

I took Tony's hand and squeezed it as I led him from the room to give Sasha time alone to see and talk to Alik. "You did this? When? How?"

Tony grinned. "I have many clients I've made a lot of money for. Some, like Burt, on the screen have contacts in other countries. Russia is one. I had him get a screen and satellite dish put up and a computer so they could see and talk together." He shrugged. "It has to be hell for Sasha. I can't imagine what it would be to not be able to see Nick. The things that Sasha has done for his son told me how much he loves Alik. Sasha is willing to do anything for that little boy. Just as I would for Nick. I couldn't not do this for them. I just had to."

I grabbed Tony in an embrace so tight, my hands bringing him even closer. Yeah, I was crying, too. But I gave him a kiss that was so heartfelt. "This is the sweetest, nicest thing I ever seen you do. I think you earned your right to go to Heaven with this."

Tony blushed kissing me back! He really blushed, his heart was involved! "Well..."

"Don't play like this was nothing. It was a major something!" I insisted. "I don't ever want to hear from that other Tony again. The one that thinks you're a failure! You are NOT a failure. This proves it."

We sat a while, about an hour before Tony walked back in. "Don't disconnect." He said to Sasha. "Ask when we can do this again."

"Again!?" Sasha asked excitedly.

Tony nodded. "Whenever you want for as long as you want. If necessary, email Tasha and make sure she's okay with when and it'll be done."

I watched as pretty brunette sat in the chair with Alik. She and Sasha spoke and then the screen went dark.

"He has to get ready for school," Sasha said rising, but he looked at Tony and me. Then grabbed us in a sobbing hug. I felt him kiss my cheek hard and then he did the same to Tony. "Thank you so much! I got to speak to my son! Not just on the telephone, I could see him! You are not just friends to me now. You are the best friends I've ever had. I love you both!"

"Anytime you want to." Tony smiled.

"Why did you do this?" Sasha asked incredibly.

Tony chuckled. "You haven't met my Alik. My son's named Nick. He's a bit bigger now, but I can't imagine not being able to see him. I can believe it has to be agony for you."

Now Sasha hugged Tony exclusively kissing his cheek again. "I owe you everything!"

Okay, we were paying Sasha under the table. That's illegal, so report us. Rules and laws should be followed...until you know the whole story. Then it becomes personal. Sasha's situation was personal. We, the hotel, and I, broke the law. Be honest, how many laws have you broken? It's okay if you feel it necessary, right? Well, I felt it was necessary! Were Tony and I being tricked by a very persuasive conman? Maybe. Was he using us to get what he wanted? Of course, he was. He would do anything to get his son to safety. He showed how grateful he was by working in our home as hard as he worked at the hotel. He was no conman. I come home one afternoon, I knew Sasha had the day off, and again the condo was clean! And I smelled something cooking.

"What are you doing?" I grinned at Sasha.

Sasha turned smiling. "I make dinner!"

I chuckled. "I can smell you make dinner." I even imitated his accent. I shrugged. "That you want to is great, but you don't have to."

"I make Basturma. It's a Russian beef dish." He grinned. "I make well, I think." Then he looked at me in the eye. "You tell me I am part of household, yes? I am part of family, yes? Then I help out. You and Tony won't take money. You let me stay free. So, I clean and I cook. Is least I can do." No, he wasn't a conman.

I raised my hands in surrender. "Fine, fine." I walked over the pot. "It smells good."

"Wait till you taste!" Sasha grinned. "I know you will like."

Shaking my head, I asked Sasha. "How did you turn out so nice? From what you've told me, it was pretty rough where you grew up."

"Yes," Sasha nodded. "But strong mother!" He grinned. "She worse than what you knew as KGB!" He smiled remembering her. "I was sad when she died. Health care in Russia is very poor. Getting better." He nodded. "I want Alik to grow up. He'll have better chance here. Better medicine here."

"Does Tasha know what you intend to do?"

He nodded. "She wants to come here, too. Immigrate. Since we never marry, she's doing it herself. Just as I am."

"You want to live here permanently?"

"Of course." Sasha nodded. "Alik is my son. If I'm approved, he will be allowed to stay. Tasha knows that."

"Don't you have to have a sponsor to immigrate?"

Sasha nodded looking a little guilty. "I can ask Jeremy or even Mr. Belosik."

I frowned. "Not Tony or me!? Should I be offended?"

Sasha shook his head quickly. "Of course not, you and Tony are best friends. You do so much for me, I can't ask more."

"You better ask more!" I growled. "We'll sponsor you. Okay?"

Sasha grinned. "Okay!" Then he thumbed to the pot. "Then no object me cooking."

"Deal."

What can I say? Death is always a constant. My grandfather died. He was in his upper eighties! There are two things about his death I think are remarkable. The first remarkable thing is how he died. He worked in the garden, came in for lunch, spent time with Grandma and went to take a nap before he went back outside with Joe beside him as usual. That dog was also very old! Only grandpa died in his sleep. He heart simply quit. No trauma and very peaceful. The second remarkable thing was Joe also disappeared. I don't mean he vanished, but just wandered away and never came back. You can play the theme to the Twilight Zone in your head. It did with me! We spent two days in the mountains for that funeral. Tony was as amazed at our funeral as I was with his parents' funeral. The country Baptist way was much more...subtle and then back to work.

Sasha's VISA was approved temporarily while his immigration was being approved. A five-year work VISA. Now he could work legally. And Tony and I were sponsoring him. Now to get Alik and Tasha over here. Alik was going to happen. Tasha had to come with Alik because you don't send a six-year-old halfway around the world alone.

It was a good thing our condo was as large as it was. We had a place for Tasha and Alik to stay. We did have words with Sasha about it and it did get kind of heated. I never yell, remember?

"No!!" Sasha shook his head as he sat in a chair in our living room. "I pay their tickets."

"Don't be pigheaded!!" I shouted. I guess I do yell. "You need your money to provide for Alik!"

Sasha frowned as he was confused. "I don't know pigheaded."

"Stubborn!" Tony growled.

Then Sasha nodded with understanding. "Upertyy. I get it. He is my responsibility. I will bring him here, and Tasha." He said and he had his arms across his chest to prove he was unmoving. Yep, he was being upertyy.

"Don't ask us to help and then not let us do it!" Tony shouted. His Italian temper was getting activated. It was love when you yell at someone. You heard Tony say that.

"Sasha, we want to do this," I said firmly. "He will get here. I know you want to be the one to do it, but we can do it now!"

"We don't want you to think you have to worry about it." Tony insisted. "Don't be a pigheaded Russian!"

Sasha's head wavered as he sighed. "I ask too much."

I knew what he was saying, but... "I don't think so. We could have said no. No one forced us."

Tony nodded. "We didn't say no to you because you're a friend. You targeted us because you thought we had the money and resources to help you. Then when we offer, you say no. Why?"

"Now you're saying not to because it's too much?" I added. "We're friends! Best friends. You said it yourself! Let us do this!" I get up as I watched Sasha's head lower as he thought. Walking over to him I put my hand on his arm. "Pride is fine, but do we have to beg you to let us help? Does that make sense?"

"Not with us." Tony agreed.

Sasha turned to me and his arms lowered. "I pay you back."

Tony got up too and walked over. "It's a gift, you...big dummy." Shaking Sasha lightly.

Sasha chuckled as he scratched his ear. "Fine."

"When you speak to Tasha, find out when she can bring Alik. We'll make arrangements." I said to Sasha. "I'm taking Russian lessons on Rosetta Stone."

Sasha looked surprised. "Russian? You want to learn to speak Russian? Why?"

"We'll be having a little Russian here that doesn't speak English yet!" I pointed out. "When you're at work, how do I call him to dinner?" Sasha laughed. "I don't have to be fluent, but I need to know when he needs to go to the bathroom. More importantly, I need to be able to tell him where to go. You won't always be here."

"Mitch learned Italian in less than a year. He'll learn Russian." Tony said proudly.

"And you're not leaving here," I added. "Not for a while, okay?"

"Okay." Sasha agreed. "Thank you."

I slugged him in the arm. Not hard, but making him widen his eyes. "I told you, stop thanking us, damn it."

Tony chuckled. "You don't want him convincing you." He rubbed his face remembering. "Trust me on that. Just do it."

Sasha nodded. "Okay."

I grinned. "In the meantime, we're having one of my cousins come and visit." I waggled my eyes at Sasha. "You could dazzle him with one of your Russian dinners."

"I be happy to," Sasha nodded. "Do I need to move rooms? My room has bathroom."

"No." I shook my head. "David's been here before. He'll be fine in one of the others."

David arrived the afternoon he said he would. I opened the door to him where he greeted me with his smile.

"Cousin!" David hugged me tightly. "Good to see you!" He came in looking around. "Where's Tony?"

"Still at work. He'll be home in a few hours." I walked David into the kitchen area. "This..." I pointed to Sasha. "Is our friend Sasha Lebedev."

David smiled at Sasha extending his hand to Sasha. "Nice to meet you, Sasha."

"This is my cousin, David McKenzie."

"Likewise," Sasha shook David's hand. "You are cousin, as in your father is brother to Mitch's father?"

David nodded with a smile. "They are. Russian, huh?"

"Yep." Sasha nodded.

I chuckled. "A souvenir we got from the Caribbean."

David shook his head. "All you brought me back was a t-shirt. You get a whole human being?"

I explained how Tony and I met Sasha.

"Chto ne obed?" I asked Sasha asking him what was for dinner. How was I to learn Russian if I didn't use it?

Sasha grinned at me. "If I tell you in Russian, will you know?"

"I'm getting there," I said smiling back. "I'll tell you if I don't understand."

"Ya delayu kirgizy Zapechennaya govyadina." Sasha said smiling waiting for me to ask because he knew I would.

"All I got was the baked beef part." I grumbled.

Sasha chuckled hugging me lightly. "You do well! I said: I'm making Kirghiz Baked Beef."

I nodded. "Sure, you did."

David looked at us, not sure what to think. "You're learning to speak Russian?" He asked me.

"Why not?" I asked. "Sasha's a good friend. Besides, I think we in America don't learn enough languages. I speak English and Italian. I'm adding Russian now." I turned to Sasha. "How many languages do you speak?"

"Russian, of course, and Ukrainian. I also speak a little German and French." Sasha said. "And of course, English."

David grunted. "I barely speak English."

"So, learn one," I said simply.

As I was helping David with his luggage to his room. I knew what was going to be his question.

"Before you ask me," I said smiling. "He's just a friend. Nothing extra."

David smiled. "Too bad." Then he shrugged. "I know you'd never cheat on Tony and he'd never cheat on you." He looked where I was taking him. "Sasha's in the other bedroom?"

I nodded. "Sorry."

David shook his head. "It's not that, but what's his story? Why are you letting him live here?"

I explained about Sasha wanted to immigrate and bring his son over.

"So, he was married?" David said a little disappointed.

I smiled again. I've known David a while, okay? "No, he was never married and yes, he is like you. Playing for both teams."

David now grinned. "Really?"

"God! You are so transparent!" I laughed.

"You know he's gorgeous!!" David shot back and shrugged. "He plays for both teams, I wouldn't mind playing a little one on one with him."

I never...well almost never...interfere with the love lives of others, but I put my hand on David's shoulder. "I'm very protective."

David looked at me. "Of me, or Sasha?"

"Both!!" I said quickly. "You're my cousin. Sasha has become like a brother. I don't want either of you hurt. Be careful with him. You know I don't like sex just for sex." I sighed. "He's older than you are."

"As Tony is to you, so?"

"You're an adult, so is Sasha. Please, if you're going to do this. Put your heart into it. If you do catch Sasha's attention, just do it in love? At least try."

David looked a little surprised. "Of course." Then he grinned. "Can I get to know him first?"

"That's what I want you to do, Stupid!"

David chuckled. "Okay, okay."

Tony came home and we had Sasha's dinner. It was great. We all seemed to get along very well. I watched David try not to be obvious as he asked questions to Sasha about Sasha's life, what he liked and all that. David looked over when I was looking at him. The smile on David's face told me remembered and was trying to be on his best behavior.

But I saw Sasha be more charming than he usually is.

As we went to bed. Tony grabbed me onto the bed. "Out with it."

"With what?" I asked beneath him.

"We've been together three years now...." Tony said.

"Soon four."

Tony nodded. "Yeah, yeah. Because of that, I can read you very well. You were watching David and Sasha very closely tonight."

I blew a breath. "I'm just....concerned!"

Tony nodded again. "You think they might become lovers?"

"Tony, I was concerned about David and Drew, remember? Naturally, I don't want any of them hurt."

Tony smiled kissing me. "That's fine, but they're both adults. If they do, and someone gets hurt, it'll be their own faults. Hurt is a possibility for both of them if they do."

"I know that." I sighed. "But you're not worried?"

Tony shook his head. "I know David. I know Sasha. Neither of them is stupid."

I nodded. "You're right." I put my arms around Tony bringing him closer like we always did. "I just asked David to use his heart for once."

"Perhaps you should tell that to Sasha, too," Tony suggested. "The fact he has a son like I did, shows he doesn't always. Just tell Sasha. Let them decide what they want." Then Tony grinned. "But Sasha was interested."

My eyes widened. "You saw that too?"

"I'm not blind." Tony smiled. "I hope they do become friends. I'd like them to fall in love." He kissed me intently. "Now, we are in love. Our hearts are involved with each other. Shall we stoke the fires of passion again? Or do you want to worry about things you can't control instead?"

I chuckled returning the kiss. "I'll say this last thing. I hope they do become involved. For that McKenzie will be going way outside of the Mason Dixie and will take some of the heat from me. He'd be bringing home a Red!"

"The Russians are coming!!" Tony laughed. "Won't your uncles be thrilled!!"

"Sasha was a part of the Soviet Union's militia! He's Red as far as they're concerned. At least I married an American Yankee."

I did see Sasha up fixing breakfast in his sweat pants and t-shirt. Walking up to him as he was getting things together. "You're fixing breakfast because you're hungry, right?"

Sasha chuckled. "I am, but I thought I'd make some for three others in house, too."

I nodded. "That's kind of you." I began making coffee. That should be done first with Tony. Then I turned to Sasha. "I may be totally wrong and you may say it's none of my business, and it isn't my business."

Sasha looked at me puzzled. "What are you talking about?"

"You flirted with David last night." I watched as Sasha was about to object or say I was wrong. I held my hand up to stop him. "He was doing the same with you."

Sasha's eyes widened. "You mean...he's...?"

I nodded. "An amazing human being capable and deserving of love," I said looking at Sasha directly. "As I know you deserve the same. That human being up there I'm related to. You are my brother. You may not have been born to my family, but you are." I said. "I'm very protective of both of you. I may be worrying about nothing. There may be no attraction at all, but just consider when you do get involved with another human being, that person has feelings. David knows how I feel about these things, now I'm telling you." I watched as Sasha's eyes grew. "It's none of my business who you get involved with, but I care about you. Whomever you chose, and I know you will eventually, you have my support. Even if it's David."

Tony came in the room for his coffee in a robe. He froze as he heard me. "Oh, no, not the talk already!? They just met yesterday!"

"And we knew each other how long before we started dating? We met in church! When it's right, it's right! I'm letting Sasha know its fine with me if he wants to start something. If not, that's also fine." I growled at Tony finishing getting his coffee ready. "No slinking around like he would offend me." Then I looked at Sasha again grinning. "Just remember if you do. He's a McKenzie. Ask Tony what that was like for him when I brought him home."

Tony gave a shiver. "It was brutal." Then he grinned. "Only at first. There are good people there, too. It's not for the faint of heart. Before you jump into anything, just remember that." He watched the coffee pour into the pot. "I married one!"

"Tak, chto na zavtrak?" I asked.

Tony looked at me frowning. "What did you say?"

Sasha stood straighter. "He asked me; what I was making for breakfast." Then he recovered a little. "Kak naschet bekon i yaytsa?"

Tony brightened as he understood part of it. "Bacon and eggs!"

Sasha smiled. "Otlichno!" Telling Tony very good. "You're taking Russian, too? You two learn fast." Then he smirked. "Fast than I learn English." Then he looked at me serious. "You wouldn't mind if I ask David on date?"

I smiled. "I'd love it. So would he, but I'll have to give David another talk."

"Talk to me about what?" David asked coming down the stairs yawning as he came in shorts and a t-shirt.

Sasha smiled at David. "I was going to do later with you when just you and me, but would you go out with me?"

David looked surprised, but I saw his look. "You mean on a date!? That's gay!"

Sasha looked at me frustrated. "You said..." He pointed at David.

"David," I shook my head. "Sasha's first language is Russian. English is his second language. He doesn't always get the McKenzie humor. Certainly not your brand."

David grinned as he came toward Sasha. "Sorry, big guy." He kissed Sasha very chastely and quick. "I'd love to." Which Sasha smiled at that. "In fact,...I say we start now. You're here, I'm here....what are we waiting for?" Then he got another mischievous look. "Should I learn Russian?"

I watched as Tony poured his coffee, then did his luxurious inhalation. "It wouldn't hurt." He said absently. "Mitch learned Italian for me."

"Non agire stupido." I shot at Tony who merely chuckled. "And Sasha, there are two of him." I pointed to my cousin.

"Two?" Sasha asked wanting to understand.

David nodded. "I have a twin brother. His name is Michael."

"Twin?" Sasha asked smiling. "You two are alike?"

"Exactly alike." Tony chuckled. "Identical. You're looking at his brother now." He waved toward David.

"Not entirely alike, he's married and never dated a guy." David smiled. "I have."

"You can tell them apart," I said. "Get to know David, you'll see differences. I do."

David nodded. "He does. One of the few that can."

Sasha's head wavered. "I just want date."

"I'm fun to be with. You'll see." David smiled. Then looked at me. "I know the rules. Three dates, right?"

I just rolled my eyes, Tony was laughing.

"So, do I drive?" David asked.

"I can't drive in America yet." Sasha replied. "I know how to drive, but haven't got license yet."

David brightened. "I can help you get the license!"

"There are things to do first." Sasha chuckled. "You're here until tomorrow, yes?"

"Yes." David nodded.

"I work today. Eleven to eight." Sasha said. "We date after work?"

David smiled. "Sure. I'll even take you to work and pick you up!"

David took Sasha to work then was asking what he should wear.

I shook my head. "David, Sasha is not a rich man. Most of his money is going to his son right now. There are fees for getting the VISA and immigrating. He doesn't wear anything that expensive." I looked in his suitcase and saw the jeans and nice shirt. "Just wear this." I shook my cousin. "Just be yourself. He can't help but love you."

David nodded and took a deep breath. Then he looked in the mirror. "Why am I nervous?"

I chuckled. "Probably like I was when I met Tony. Scared, but unable to stop. This could mean a lot for both of you." Then I looked in David's eyes. "I want you to have fun, but be serious about this. Sasha's not a kid. He's a man. Treat him that way."

David nodded.

David did go get Sasha after work, but I knew Sasha would come home to shower before going anywhere. When they got home, Sasha took the stairs two at a time to get ready.

Everything was going great! They went out to eat and the two were going to a club I suggested to them. It was just after midnight when they came home. Only it wasn't very happy. Sasha went up slowly, but David came in to sit near us shaking his head as he watched Sasha go upstairs.

I sat up from the sofa. "It didn't go well?"

David shrugged. "I thought it was going great. We had dinner then went to Patrick's. All of the sudden Sasha was distant. He barely said a word on the way home."

Tony frowned from his place beside me. "He didn't say anything was wrong? You two were hitting it off last night and this morning."

David shook his head again. "Not a word."

Then we all looked up as Sasha came downstairs. He walked up to David. "Tonight, you make me think." He began. "I like you. I can like you much more." Sasha shook his head. "I can say what you do. I was ten when my father died. My mother had to support me alone. I smoked as did my father, which is why he died. Then I had Alik. Then I say I don't smoke. I'm not leaving Alik like my father did me. You do what you want. I can't. Now, Alik is most important. I want to see what happen with you and me. I not lose you because of smoke after I give my heart. You choose. Smoke? Or see me. Because I want see you again. If you don't smoke." Sasha pulled David up and kissed him. The kiss was not chaste and it was not all that gentle, but Sasha put his heart into it. "You think about what I say." Then Sasha went back upstairs and we heard the door to his room shut.

I looked at David. "You smoked?"

David shrugged. "We were at the club. I never do it unless somewhere like that. It just...." He looked at Tony and me, "...happens."

I nodded. "I smoked, too."

Tony looked surprised and sat away a bit. "You did!?"

I nodded. "When I was a teenager. Right before I went to the academy I quit. I couldn't run if I smoked. At least not as well. It just made sense." Then I grinned at Tony. "You never did?"

Tony shrugged a nod. "Well....I did. I was a teenager, too. Mama found them in my clothes doing laundry."

I nodded with a smile. "I can imagine the yelling then."

Tony shook his head. "You'd be very wrong. She simply came to my room, put them on the desk, but never said a word."

I was having a hard time believing that. "She didn't? I thought Italians yell to show love."

"They do!" Tony chuckled. "Imagine the agony. She answered me but didn't raise her voice. I mean no animation at all. Just even tones. No emotion at all! By the week's end I was swearing to her I'd never smoke again. I didn't."

I chuckled at that. "It would be agony." I nodded and then looked at David. "So, I guess you need to decide. A possible future with a very good man, or those coffin nails. You're not a teenager and haven't been for a while now. It's up to you."

David pulled the pack of cigarettes out of his pocket. He looked at them, balled them up and went to the kitchen and threw them away.