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But right now, the last thing I want to think about is work. Sandra, unfortunately, has other plans.
“Remind me to ask Samuil to pay the Southern Administrative Okrug a visit. A couple of businesses haven’t been paying kickback on time, and I’d prefer they didn’t make it a habit.”
I press a kiss to her temple. “We’ve talked about this, princess. Work can wait.”
Offering her my hand, I help Sandra take a seat on the examination table. I’m careful not to touch any of the equipment or tools. Just because this is her aunt’s clinic doesn’t mean I can get away with making a mess of the place.
“I’m just saying,” she continues, “they’ve been getting a little too comfortable. Samuil doesn’t have to knock any heads. Just his presence in the area should be enough to scare them straight.”
“Yes, dear. Whatever you say.”
“Take me seriously, Andrei.”
“I always do, but you should relax for now. Savor the moment, you know?”
Sandra sighs, rubbing her hands over her belly. “I guess I’m just a little nervous. Charlotte always tells me I have a tendency to blab when I am.”
“It’s only an ultrasound, my love. It can’t hurt you.”
“No, I know. It’s more a nervous-excited.” Sandra beams, her smile brighter and more brilliant than the sun. “Do you think it’s a boy? Or a girl? Which would you prefer?”
“It doesn’t matter to me as long as they’re happy and healthy.”
Sandra tilts her chin up, offering me the perfect opportunity to dip down and give her a sweet kiss. We’re interrupted a few seconds later when Dr. Chekov enters the room. Natalya smiles at us, gesturing towards the large ultrasound machine next to the table.
“How are we feeling?” she asks. “Are you ready to get started?”
Sandra nods eagerly. “Soready.”
She squeezes my hand as Dr. Chekov applies the lubrication to her belly, bringing the wand up to press against her skin. Her baby bump is starting to show. Just the sight of it fills me with a strange sense of pride. That’sourchild in there.
Sandra and I watch the display screen. I’ll confess I’m not entirely sure what I’m looking at. All these lines in black and white… I can’t make out any discernible shapes. How small are babies supposed to be at this stage of development?
“And here we are,” Dr. Chekov says gleefully. “Here’s baby one… and this one is baby number two.”
My brain stutters. “I’m sorry. Did you just saytwo?”
Sandra giggles. “Why are you so surprised? Twins run in my family.”
“Two?” I exclaim staring at the screen in disbelief.
Dr. Chekov blessedly points them out on the screen.
“Are they boys or girls?” I ask.
Natalya shakes her head. “It’s too early to tell just yet. But I can tell you they are both healthy.”
They aren’t even here yet, but I’m already the proudest father in the world. I kiss Sandra on the cheek, marveling at the screen together. A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined settling down and starting a family. Now, it’s all I can think about. I want it all—the nice house out in the suburbs, teaching them how to ride their bikes, raising them both with the woman I love.
“Are you happy?” Sandra asks me, tears glossing her eyes.
“Princess, I’m over the moon.”
When our appointment is over, I walk Sandra out to the car, my hand on the small of her back. I don’t know why I’ve become so protective lately, but I’ve been fixated on the strangest things. I’m focused on the ground before us, keeping an eye out for uneven footing. I’m hyper-aware of any danger that might be lurking. I’m on top of our bodyguards, berating them when there’s even asliverof a chance they’ve broken formation. Sandra and our children mean the world to me, and so help me God, I’m going to make sure they’re all safe—even if I have to go a little overboard to do it.
“Are you hungry?” I ask her. “We could grab a bite to eat before we head home.”
“Actually, I’m thinking of stopping by Mom and Dad’s. They’ve been pulling out all my old baby clothes from the attic. Plus, I’m sure they’re excited to hear about the results of the ultrasound.”
