Communicating? Max had been too afraid to try. He considered it many times, and had started to write a dozen notes at least. They all ended up on fire in the kitchen sink, washed down the drain to be eaten by the garbage disposal. He didn't know what he'd say. "Hello, I'm here, don't kill us"? "It's not so bad, at least you've got your health"? "So since we're living together now, maybe you should start cleaning up more"? Nothing seemed right. What did you say to the man that inadvertently created you, and clearly didn't want you?
"I...haven't...I used his e-mail to explain why he's not at work, so he doesn't get fired right off. He probably knows about that. I just...don't know what I'd say. Or if I should say anything." He sighed, burying his face in his hands. When Vlad refused to turn and leave, he scowled. "Stubborn fucking ass," he grumbled. "Fine. I could go for something to eat. Like pancakes. Do they have a place to get pancakes here this late?"