Father, I have news. The neighbor, Lăcrămioara shes pregnantby me, Dragoș announced as he stepped into the house.
Victor, his father, paused for a moment, then replied calmly, Then you should get married.
How can you say that? Im too young. Its not the right time for a family, especially since we havent spent much time together, Dragoș protested.
Seriously? Victor snapped, his tone bitter. You used to chase after girls like a man, but when it comes to taking responsibility you act like a child. Fine. And without another word, he shouted for his wife, Maria! Come here a minute!
Maria entered the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron. Whats going on?
Listen. Our son got a girl pregnant and refuses to marry her. Lăcrămioara, the neighbors daughter, is carrying his child, and hes hiding like a rat, Victor explained.
Maria showed no surprise; her face hardened. Good for him. Why should we welcome any random girl into our home? Those girls are slythey look for someone with money, take advantage, then demand marriage. Who knows, maybe the child isnt even his. Do a test. Besides, theres no point pressuring Dragoș; hes still young. Its hard to stay a man, but were not obliged to raise other peoples children.
Victor sighed deeply and asked quietly, But what if the child is really his?
And if it is? Should we take responsibility? Tell him to get the tests done, well find out everything.
He turned and left the room, leaving Victor alone with his son.
You know, I was young once too, Victor began. I loved someone else, but I married your mothernot for love, but out of duty. Being a man isnt just passion; its choice and consequence. She was pregnant. I didnt know if I could be with her, but I was certain the child bore no guilt. My blood, my conscience. And Dragoș, though it wasnt easy, I never regretted staying.
Three months later, the DNA test confirmed with 99.9% certainty that Dragoș was the father of Lăcrămioaras child.
And what now? Maria laughed as Victor placed the report on the table. Yes, hes the father, but that doesnt mean Lăcrămioara will live in this house. Dont even think about it!
Dragoș stood silently, hands clasped, his face showing that hed sided with his mother. He stayed mute, fists clenched.
Victor rose slowly from his seat. If the two of you have decided, listen to what I have to say.
His voice was low but cutting like a knife. As long as I live, my grandson will lack nothing. I have land; Ill build a house, and my grandson will inherit everything Ive gathered. You two will get nothing from me. I refuse to be part of this shame any longer. Dragoș, from today you are no longer my son. Everything I own will go to the child. No money will reach you.
Maria erupted, Are you mad? You want to strip your own son of his inheritance?!
Victor gave no answer. He turned and walked away, ignoring the shouts and curses. Dragoș remained standing, stunned by what hed just heard, but he knew that Victors word would be law.
