Breakfast of Champions

The next morning, Alessia woke up to the sound of her alarm, the events of the previous night still fresh in her mind. She groaned, her body heavy with exhaustion, and she hit the snooze button, craving a few more moments of oblivion. But as she lay there, the memories of Nicolai's touch, his scent, and the taste of his kiss flooded back to her. With a sigh, she resigned herself to the day ahead, knowing she couldn't avoid the confrontation with Nicolai for much longer.

Alessia tumbled out of bed and headed to the bathroom, her mind already racing with thoughts of what she would say to him but before she could get to the shower, a soft knock sounded on the door. Alessia grumbled, dragging herself down the hall to her small foyer.

She was surprised to find not only Sergei but also Katya and another man waiting outside. The new arrival was tall and broad-shouldered, his hair neatly tucked into a chef's hat. He carried a large tray, the aroma of freshly cooked food wafting from it and ma