“You have a date?” Sofia asked.
Lev grunted, and Maxim took that as a yes, although knowing his brother, Lev never did dates, only hook-ups.
“Another time then,” Maxim said, clasping his shoulder.
“You’ve changed, brother,” Lev remarked.
“Is that a good or bad thing?” Maxim asked him. He didn’t think marrying Sofia and having a son with her made him soft. In fact, it was the exact opposite. Maxim’s methods had become even more ruthless because he knew protecting his wife and son had become his number one priority.
Lev looked at Viktor burping on Maxim’s shoulder, his expression hard to read, then answered, “A good thing, I think.”
“Well, enjoy your evening,” Sofia said, closing in on Lev. She gave his cheek a kiss. Lev nodded and excused himself.
They retreated to the kitchen. Most of the staff had gone home at this time of the night, leaving the house mostly empty, save for the night-time employees. Of course, his men sometimes came and went as well. For now, it was just Maxim, Sofia, and Viktor.
“Sit,” Sofia said. “I’ll make a plate for both of us, and Viktor’s dinner.”
Maxim placed his son in his baby seat, then pulled out a stool from the counter. Moments later, Sofia returned with two plates of lasagna and two glasses of wine. At six months old, Viktor’s dinner comprised of milk, some fruits, and vegetables. Sofia offered to feed him. Maxim took a bite of his wife’s new lasagne recipe.
“Delicious,” he said, licking the sauce off his lips. Sofia stared at him for a few moments, knowing it wasn’t just dinner he was referring to. Her cheeks turned an endearing shade of pink.
“Viktor’s had a busy time. He’ll fall asleep soon. I better give him a bath, then put him to bed. After that, maybe you can have me for dessert,” Sofia said, giving him a wink.
“Looking forward to it,” Maxim said, smirking.
The End