Chapter 129: Death of a Routine
Since coming back to the German Reich form his time spent in the Russian Empire, Heinrich had been busy, both with work, and with his home life. Prior, he seldom spent his time in his own home, rather entertaining the many single ladies of the world, and some of those who were already married.
But upon finding himself suddenly forced to adopt a teenage Russian girl, Heinrich was ultimately forced to clean up his act. Trying his best to create an environment for the girl that was far less painful than the life she had left behind in Russia.
Ultimately, his days as a playboy, truly deserving of the term "Rake" which had incidentally been applied to Bruno, rather than Heinrich, the man had suddenly found himself completely and utterly free from any dalliances with the less respectful women of the world.
Instead, he would come straight home after work to ensure that his newly adopted daughter was properly fed, their home was properly cleaned, and that the girl had finished with her studies for the evening.
At first Alya had a hard time adapting to her new life. But after spending a few weeks with Heidi and the tyranny which the woman imposed upon her, Alya soon found the habits formed in Bruno's home had stuck.
Heinrich no longer came home to an empty and dark house, but one that was well lit, and with a meal prepared for him by his young, adopted daughter. Though the girl had a long way to go before she could match Heidi's level of skill when it came to performing chores.
At the very least, the house was clean; the laundry was freshly done, and there was food on the table the moment Heinrich came home from his day at the base. Coincidentally enough, today Heinrich came home with a subtle change to his uniform, but one which Alya instantly recognized when the man entered through their door.
Heinrich was wearing the shoulder tabs of Lieutenant Colonel, or in the German Army would be known as the Oberst Leutnant. He had been promoted today to the position and was now in charge of his own battalion.
This was a major cause for celebration, and because of this, Alya instantly expressed her shock.
"You were promoted? Why didn't you call home in advance? I would have prepared something for dessert!"