116 One Big Happy Family

- VANESSA -

Ivan is awake. It was going to happen eventually, of course, but I guess I was hoping that it wouldn't happen this soon. 

Matvey is sitting at the head of the table while all of us are gathered together to eat breakfast in the small, less formal dining room. By the expression on Ivan's face, it looks as if he is being held hostage more than I am. I suppose it doesn't help that he is obviously still in some pain, though he is trying his best to disguise it. 

"This is nice," Matvey says gruffly. He glances around the table at all of us. "Having everyone here." His gaze lands on me last, and the way it lingers makes me squirm and stare at my plate where I make myself busy pushing food around. 

"Kisa, if there is anything you prefer for meals, let Ivan know. He can speak with the cook. I know it can be difficult, given your condition." He gestures toward my stomach. "Are you taking the vitamins from the doctor?"