Malachi opens his eyes abruptly.
An intense sunlight beams directly into his vision, making him wince and groan.
"Hang on, hang on…" A sweet voice says.
Malachi feels his sunglasses get placed over his face and he smiles gratefully.
"Thanks, babe… thought I was going to have to blot out the sun to get some relief there."
Sei pulls his ear sternly. "Don't even joke about that, you'll give the kids ideas."
Malachi looks out into his backyard.
It's an uncomfortably warm summer day in the south. The kind of weather that's perfect for a backyard event.
The pool, which was formerly frequented by thrashing children, is now mostly empty aside from the adults.
All four of the little ones are crowding around the grill, each with a paper plate in hand.
Askari turns his little head a full 180 degrees towards him.
"Uncle Mal, are we gonna blow up the sun today?!"
Malachi felt a bead of sweat run down his brow.
"Ah… not this time, buddy. Maybe next week."
Sei pinches his ear again.
