Summary:

“Olesya.”
“Oh-lee-syah,” Shane repeated slowly, making sure he pronounced it right. “What… what are you going to do?”
“I don’t know,” Ilya said, resting his head in his hand. “I don’t fucking know.”
Shane’s voice was steady. “What can I do?”
How long had it been since someone offered to help Ilya? He took care of his family, carried his brother’s financial burdens, tended his own injuries, paid his way through life without aid. The question, softly spoken and rich with genuine intent, was enough to bring tears to his eyes. Could he really trust it? Could he ask someone for help?
For once, he wanted to try.

OR: Ilya is left with sudden custody of Alexei's daughter and calls Shane to help.

(Set just before the cottage.)