20
Stefan entered the private parlour, cheerful and unsuspecting. “Hallo. This is nice; having a bit of time to catch up without the others around. How have you been? You both look well. I’ve missed you, you know. No one to tell me off if I forget to comb my hair. No one giving me big bear hugs. It’s great to be home, even if it’s just for a few days.”
“Sit down, son,” said Ivan heavily, at the same time as Vera said with forced cheerfulness, “It is lovely to see you again, too.”
Stefan sat down slowly, looking from one to the other. “What’s up?”
Ivan leaned forward and spread his hands on the table. “First of all, Stefan, son, let me say that we both love you with all our hearts and,” he hesitated, “you are and always will be a loved, valued member of this family.”
“Dad, what’s wrong
