As her grandmother used to tell her, Veronika’s father had disappeared from the village long before she was born. And her mother died after enduring a severe illness that claimed the life of the young woman in just a few months. Thus, the only close relative who took on the care of the girl was … Read more
This day became a turning point for Natalya, forever etched in her memory. The words of the one who was about to become part of their family tore her heart to pieces. It seemed as though time had frozen, and she herself dissolved like the morning mist. In the morning, Natalya had no inkling that … Read more
Kolya, you won’t believe what happened today!» Anya practically flew into the apartment, beaming with joy. Her chestnut hair was disheveled from walking fast, and her cheeks were flushed from the March wind. Kolya looked up from his laptop. On the screen, an unfinished report—his boss had demanded it be submitted yesterday—was frozen. “What’s … Read more
Dad, please listen to me,” said the woman, now of age, as she sat next to the old man. She took his hand, but Vladimir Pavlovich pulled it toward himself. “You can barely walk—let’s finally resolve this matter.” The old man, like a child, hid his hands behind his back. He silently looked at his … Read more
The Antonovs’ car was once again parked outside the house. Vera realized that the insolent guests had, once again, disregarded her request for them to get out of her little apartment. “Dear guests, aren’t you tired of the hosts? Relatives of my ex-husband were visiting without permission, but their hostess taught them a lesson.” “No, … Read more
It was nearly noon when Ilya finally managed to call his beloved wife: — Yana, I’m alive and well. I’ll be there soon. There was an accident at the mine; we’re just returning to base. — Thank God, Ilyusha! I already called the dispatcher, and he told me everything. I’m waiting for you. Ilya was … Read more
Ana, how much longer are you going to whine?» Marina said, placing her latte cup irritably on the glass table and pushing the plate of almond cookies towards her friend. «All husbands go on business trips, and your Sergey is no exception. You’re acting like a spoiled teenager!» Anna slowly stirred her silver spoon in … Read more
In the half-empty apartment, it was unusually quiet. Grigory opened the door with his key and entered, not warning anyone that he would return so soon. A sharp gust of wind pulled the front door inward and slammed it shut. It was a dull, muffled sound. Only the small window seemed surprised at the return … Read more
Marina sped down the street as if on wings, her heart overflowing with joy from unexpected freedom. A spring breeze playfully tousled her hair, and the sun gently touched her skin. She decided to surprise her mother-in-law, Anna Petrovna, and visit her unannounced. Approaching the old Khrushchyovka, Marina paused for a moment. The peeling paint … Read more
Alenushka, please… listen to me!» the mother-in-law sobbed. «No, Vera Vasilyevna. There’s nothing to talk about,» Alena cut her off. She looked at four-year-old Valyusha, who was a spitting image of his father. But now, that no longer mattered. Not long ago, Alena would have given anything to hear these words. Back when she was … Read more