“Are you okay? Sergei!”
My vision clears a little and Angelina’s face comes back into focus. The feeling of isolation dissipates.
“Yes.” I say, “Why wouldn’t I be?”
Angelina tilts her head and looks at me with concern.
“You had that empty look in your eyes. And you weren’t answering when I called your name.”
“I was just deep in thought.” I say and let go of her neck. “We should go back.”
“Sure?”
“Yeah.” I stand up and head in the direction of the house. For a dozen or so feet Angelina matches my quick pace, but then slows down to a sluggish walk. I stop to wait for her and when she catches up, she’s breathing hard, so I wrap my arm around her waist and lift her in my arms.
“That’s not necessary,” she says, but doesn’t make a move to get free. I ignore her comment, whistle for Mimi,
