Chapter 52

“Just spit it out.” The doctor dropped to a seat and cradled his head in his hands. “What have the children done, and why does Mr. Donauri look as if he needs a week’s worth of sleep?”

“I am tripping,” said the Russian. “Also, I need more liquid. Coffee would be nice.”

Vincent groaned. “That’s part of what I need to explain. Let’s make some coffee, then, and have a nice, long chat.”

Dr. Yarborough’s brow furrowed. He stared at Nikoloz, opened his mouth to say something, then closed it again and shook his head. Sanders put the percolator on the stove, and she and Jones joined them at the table.

“We’ll have to take Evans a cup out in the workshop,” Jones said. He turned his eyes on Nikoloz as well, and Nikoloz giggled as he found himself the center of attention.

“I love you guys. Jones is red and Sanders is yellow and Dr. Yarborough is purple. Vikushka, you are still orange.”

Dr. Yarborough shot Vincent a stern glare. “You’d better have a very good explanation for this.”