Nikolai had just finished showering and slipping into clean clothes when he sensed a wave of sadness emanating from Alexei.
‘Are you okay, Beautiful?’ he asked her through their mind-link, waiting for her response.
‘Yes, I am okay. I just finished getting cleaned up,’ she replied, though he could feel her hesitation.
‘Good. I asked because I felt sadness from you,’ he clarified, concerned about her well-being.
‘Oh, it’s nothing serious. I was talking with your mother about my sister,’ she explained, alleviating some of his worry.
‘I understand. I will be there soon, and I can take you for a small walk if you want,’ he offered, eager to make her feel better.
‘That sounds nice, thank you,’ she responded, and the warmth in her words made him smile.
Nikolai quickly put o
