Chapter １７

I sigh, but as I raise my head, I catch my boyfriend's remorseful gaze. Oh, how I know that expression. I have no doubt that his hands were far from innocent last night. His guilt, though, makes me feel even more humiliated. Even if he did anything last night, it wouldn't have been anywhere like as horrible as what I did.

"I apologize for not returning home till late last night."

It's just before lunchtime, and he's been sleeping all morning. Leonid takes a seat at the kitchen table without attempting to kiss or touch me.

"It's all right, Leonid."

"No, it isn't. "I'm a bad boyfriend." I'm glad he's not looking at me as he buries his hands in his hair. I'm sure I'm pale as a ghost, with self-disgust written all over my face. He does not deserve to be in this state.

"Listen, it's only natural for you to spend time with pals you haven't seen in a long time. You've always been the party animal, while I'm the quiet one who stays at home on weekends."