Olga sat with Leonid as he read to her. His small voice was steady, though sometimes he stumbled over a word, and each time he did, he quickly corrected himself. His eyes shone with pride as he tried to show her he was improving.
When he finally finished the page, Olga gave a smile that seemed warm but carried an edge to it. "You've been improving, my dear son," she said softly, brushing her hand across his hair. Leonid's chest puffed with joy. Nothing made him happier than to be praised.
"That's because I want to be as smart and strong as brother," Leonid answered without thinking. His eyes glowed as he said it, the name of his brother like a small flame in his heart.
Olga's smile vanished. She snapped, her voice sharp like the crack of a whip. "How many times must I tell you not to mention that devil? He is a monster, Leonid. A monster! He wants you dead. But you never listen to me."
