“It’s a good thing we don’t remember this age, isn’t it?”
“Hell, yes. Adulthood is tough enough,” Charlie laughed.
“What are you moaning about?” Inessa remarked as she entered the room. “I’m the one with nipples like balloons.”
“Too much sharing, Sis,” I giggled.
“Yeah, I don’t think your brother needs that much detail.”
“Men. You’re happy planting the seed but when the watermelon emerges, you’re all squeamish.”
“Sounds like you haven't caught up on that sleep yet, Inessa,” I chuckled.
“My eyes feel like piss holes in the snow.”
“You’re still the most ravishing creature I’ve ever laid my eyes on, my love,” Charlie said and kissed his wife.
“Slow down, Romeo. That’s how I got myself into this situation,” she smirked. “It’s all your fault.”
“Guilty,” Charlie said and bowed his head in mock contrition.
Jeremy flung away his teething ring and started crying.
“It’s okay, my love. Mommy knows. It hurts.”
My sister picked up her unhappy chappy and rocked him.
“I’m going to put him down for a nap, boys. Be back in a bit.”
“Your sister is a wonderful mother, Max. I’m so proud of her.”
“You’ve got yourself a good one, Charlie.”
“Don’t I know it?”
“How’s work?”
“Good, thanks. Working remotely is a godsend. I like being able to help Inessa with the baby. Especially now that he’s teething.”
Charlie was an IT wonderkid long before it became a thing. His company made money hand over fist, and he had invested wisely.
“I can’t believe how quickly he’s growing.”
“How are you doing, Max? Inessa told me you were in Moscow recently.”
I had to be careful what I shared with Charlie. My sister and I made a pact not to share too much of our old lives with others. It was dangerous.
“Yes. I had some business to attend to.”
“New client?”
“No, an old one. We’re taking on a few of his new lines.”
“Fantastic. You’ve done so well; Max. Inessa and I are so proud of you.”
“Thanks, Charlie.”
I wondered how proud he’d be when he found out what I was about to embark on. Fucking Russian mob.