The tiny kitchenette, which began just outside the house, smelled of freshly brewed coffee and ham and scrambled eggs. Another brunette was standing near the two-burner gas stove and, purring a simple song under his breath, served portions of an omelette on plates. Kir and Oleg started their early breakfast at the same time, blowing on the food to cool it down a bit.

Alex gently pushed me inside so that I moved away from the door, slowly sat down at the table near the guys and gestured for me to a chair, as if inviting me to join. But I remained standing.

- Bon appetit! I blurted out the...