Emily Taylor

JUST IN CASE After Vera glanced indifferently at her weeping colleague and turned back to her computer, OIga, the department head, called out, “Heartless as ever, Vera.” “Me? Why do you say that?” Vera replied. “Just because your personal life is all sunshine, doesn’t mean others have it so easy. Can’t you see the girl’s heartbroken? Maybe give some advice, share a bit of your experience, since everything’s so perfect for you.” “Me? Share my wisdom? With her? I doubt Nadine would appreciate it. I tried, you know, five years back when she came to work with a black eye — said it helped her see the road home. It wasn’t her bloke, though; no, she did it herself, just a bad fall. When he left, the bruises disappeared. Third chap to bolt, by the way. I tried to help, share my story. Ended up the bad guy, apparently — just the jealous destroyer of Nadine’s happiness. Now she’s all modern, does therapy instead of spells. Still, it’s the same old cycle, just swapping names. So excuse me if I won’t be weeping and offering tissues this time.” “Still, Vera, it’s not right.” At lunch — everyone round the same table — the only topic was Nadine’s ex, the louse. Vera ate in silence, poured herself a coffee, and retreated to a quiet corner, scrolling her phone, trying to switch off. “Vera,” came the voice — bubbly Tanya, usually all sunshine, but today her face had clouded up. “You really don’t feel even a bit sorry for Nadine?” “Tanya, what do you all want from me?” “Oh, lay off her,” chimed in passing Irene. “She’s got her precious William — living the life of Riley, she’ll never get how it is to be left alone with a kid, fending for yourself. Try getting child support out of that so-called dad now.” “Shouldn’t have bothered having his kid in the first place,” piped up Mrs Taylor, oldest of the lot, whom everyone called Granny Taylor behind her back. “Vera’s right — how many times has Nadine blubbed over some fella? Even when she was expecting, he was already doing her head in. Before that — don’t get me started…” The circle of women gathered around the ever-crying Nadine, each offering advice. What was the point? Strong, independent Nadine was determined to bounce back: called her mum from the countryside to help with her son and that ungrateful ex, then tried to move on — had a new fringe, had her brows microbladed, stuck on eyelashes, almost got a nose ring, but the whole office talked her out of it. And off she went. “It’s nothing, Nadine — he’ll regret it, you’ll see!” “No, he won’t,” Vera muttered, more to herself than anyone, but the tipsy girls overheard, demanding an explanation. “He won’t. He won’t cry, and he won’t regret it. And Nadine? She’ll just meet another one, just like before…” “Easy for you to say, with your William, must be perfect, eh?” “Perfect… my William is golden — doesn’t hit, doesn’t drink, doesn’t chase women, loves me to bits.” “Oh come on, they’re all the same. Watch out, Vera, someone might nick him from you!” “Never — he won’t stray.” “I wouldn’t be so sure.” “You should be.” Fueled by wine and mischief, the girls start teasing: “Let’s all go see if your William can resist our charms! Bet you won’t invite us round. Afraid one of us will snatch your Mr Perfect?” “Alright, let’s go,” Vera grinned. “Right! To Vera’s house, girls! Granny Taylor, are you coming?” “No, girls, my Michael’s waiting at home. Off you pop!” A rattling, giggling crowd descended on Vera’s place; they bustled about the kitchen, laughing while they cooked. “Let’s whip up a dinner for William — I take it he’s out? He’ll be back to a lovely spread.” “Don’t put yourselves out; he’s fussy, barely eats, but yes, he’ll be home soon.” The excitement faded, and soon everyone drifted home, except Nadine, Olga, and Tanya. They sipped tea in Vera’s cosy kitchen, awkward, curious about the mysterious William. The front door opened. “William, my darling, you’re home!” crooned Vera. The women straightened up, suddenly nervous as a tall, handsome young man walked in. Ah, they all thought, so that’s the secret — her husband is much younger! “Girls, meet my Dennis.” Dennis? But… what about William? “My son, Dennis. So, how’s William, Denny?” “Fine, Mum. He just needs rest. He’ll be running about in a couple of days. Just don’t let him lick…” The women blushed. “We… should probably go?” “Wait — you haven’t met William! Quiet now; he’s just had surgery, Dennis and his girlfriend took him in, poor thing was marking the curtains… come meet him.” “There he is, my William, fast asleep.” Stifling laughter, the ladies dashed out. “Vera! It’s a cat!” “Of course it’s a cat. What did you think?” “But… your husband?” “Never had one. You all made that up — I mentioned my perfect William, and you filled in the gaps. First marriage was young and dumb, had Dennis, split up quick. Parents helped. Second time, I almost believed in fairy tales, but he wanted me to ship Dennis off to boarding school. Sent him back to his mum. Third bloke… well, he gave me a black eye, and I gave him the boot. Dennis grew up, got married, I got William. We get along. Movie nights, holidays — nobody owes anybody. Sometimes I cook a fancy dinner, he pops round; everyone’s happy.” Dennis never did get it. Asked why I didn’t live with William. Why? Separate lives, separate habits. If we’d met young, maybe — like my brother and his wife, married thirty years. But me? Nah, no need to fake it for the sake of a title. Me and William, we’re just fine. Right, lovey? Open those pretty eyes.” Home they all trudged, deep in thought — Nadine most of all. But Nadine couldn’t do as Vera did. Within a month, she was gushing over a new love, showing off bouquets at the office. Vera and Granny Taylor just smiled quietly. “How’s your Michael, Granny?” “He’s good, Vera, all healed up. Grandkids wanted him in a dog show — can you imagine? We’re happy enough without all that.” “Some get pets, some get husbands…” “Well, that’s how it goes. Maybe Nadine’s luck will change this time?” “Here’s hoping…” “What are you two whispering about?” “You, Nadine, just hoping things turn out better for you.” “I know how it looks, girls, but I just can’t do it alone, I swear.” “That’s none of our business — don’t apologise, everyone’s got their own way…” “Vera?” Nadine caught her as she walked to her car. “If you ever have tips about cats — which is better, boy or girl?” “Go on, don’t keep them waiting… we’ll see! Just in case…”

JUST IN CASE Margaret glanced at her sobbing colleague with indifference, then turned back to her computer

La vida

“Lydia, Have You Gone Mad in Your Old Age? Your Grandkids Are Already at School—What’s All This About a Wedding?” That’s What My Sister Said When I Told Her I’m Getting Married. But Why Postpone Happiness? Toly and I Are Tying the Knot Next Week—No Big Party at Sixty, Just a Quiet Registry Office Ceremony for Two. But Toly Insists on Making It Official; He’s a True Gentleman Who Wants Commitment—and With Him, I Feel Young Again. I Braced Myself to Tell My Sister, Knowing She’d Judge Me for ‘Moving On’ So Soon After My Husband’s Passing. But After Years of Living for Others—Children, Grandchildren, Even Livestock—I Finally Found Joy for Myself. Now, Thanks to Toly, I’m Learning Life Can Be Sweet Even in Retirement, No Matter What Others Think

Linda, have you lost your mind in your old age? Youve got grandchildren in secondary schoolwhats this

La vida

Granddaughter: The Heartwarming Tale of Young Olya, Neglected by Her Mother and Rejected by Her Father, Who Finds Love and a True Home in the Embrace of Her Grandmother Nina in the English Countryside—A Story of Resilience, Family Betrayal, and the Enduring Power of Kindness Across Generations

Granddaughter. Emilia was never really wanted by her mother, Claire, from the very start. Claire treated

La vida

A Blessing from Above… The morning dawned grey and brooding, heavy clouds hung low across the sky while distant thunder rumbled in the distance. The first storm of spring was approaching, ending the endless winter, though spring itself was slow to awaken. Bitter winds swept up last year’s leaves, tossing them restlessly, as tender green shoots timidly broke through the stubborn ground and unopened buds still guarded their riches. Nature waited, longing for rain after a snowless, cold, restless winter. The earth needed this storm, yearned for revival and generous rain to wash away the dust and bring new life—only then could true spring begin, lush and blossoming like a woman young, loving, full of tenderness. And then, as Sacha and Victoria sat at the breakfast table after a night of tears and heartbreak—with hope dashed by the verdict of the famous professor who declared, “I’m sorry, but children are not possible”—a crack of thunder shook the house and the heavens opened at last. The long-awaited rain, life-bringing and symbolic, poured down as they embraced by the window, watching the clouds dissolve inside and out, making room for hope where only grief had reigned. Thus began their journey—from a childless couple to parents, not by birth, but by choice and boundless love. From the First Storm of Spring to the First Smile of Love: Sacha and Victoria’s Journey from Sorrow to Joy, the Adoption of Little Ellie, and How a Child’s Kindness, Art, and Resilience Blossomed into a Family’s True Miracle

A Gift From Above… Dawn crept in beneath a blanket of heavy grey clouds, the sky sagging with their weight.

La vida

Mother-in-Law Times Two — Well, would you look at that! — said George in place of a greeting as he saw the petite, wiry old lady in jeans at his door, lips stretched in a sly grin. Mischievous eyes twinkled under narrowed lids. “Irina’s gran, Mrs. Valentine Peters,” he realised. “But how on earth — no warning, not even a call…” — Hello, sonny! — she greeted him, still smiling. — Going to let me in, then? — Oh, yes, of course! — George bustled, ushering her in. Mrs. Peters rolled a suitcase into the flat. . . — Strong cuppa for me! — she instructed as George served up tea. — So, Irina at work, little Ella at nursery, and what about you—skiving off? — Been sent on enforced leave, — he replied gloomily. — Two weeks’ ‘operational necessity,’ they call it. — Visions of a fortnight’s peace vanished. He glanced at her, hopeful: — You staying long? — Bang on — nodded Mrs. Peters, dashing his hopes — Staying ages. Another sigh. He barely knew her, only glimpsed her at his and Irina’s wedding—she’d travelled down. But he’d heard plenty from his father-in-law, who, whenever Mrs. Peters came up, would drop his voice and glance fearfully around, clearly respecting her—knee-knockingly so. — Do the washing up, — she instructed him, — and get ready. City tour for me, you’re my guide! George offered no argument—her drill-sergeant tone instantly reminded him of Sergeant Prichard from his army days. Crossing old Prichard was never worth it. — Show me the riverside! — Mrs. Peters ordered. — What’s the quickest way? — Taxi, — shrugged George. Suddenly Mrs. Peters pursed her fingers and let out a piercing whistle. A passing cab screeched to a halt. — Why whistle? What will people think? — George chided, helping her into the passenger seat. — Oh, nothing at all, — she beamed. — If they think anything, they’ll think you’re the uncivilised one. Hearing this, the taxi driver burst out laughing alongside Mrs. Peters. They slapped palms in triumph, like old mates pulling off a prank. — George, you’re a decent, polite lad, — the sprightly granny said as they strolled the riverside. — Your gran’s probably all prim and proper, but I don’t know the meaning of it! My late husband, Irina’s granddad, needed ages to get used to me. He was as quiet as a church mouse, loved his books—then along came me! I dragged him up mountains, taught him parachuting—though he never did brave a hang-glider. He and Irina would wait for me below while I circled overhead. George listened, amazed. Irina had never mentioned her gran’s adventurous streak. It explained a lot. Mrs. Peters fixed him with a look: — Ever parachuted yourself? — Army — fourteen jumps, — George replied, with a touch of pride. — Good on you! — Mrs. Peters nodded approval, breaking into song: “We’ll fall for a while, in this endless leap…” George knew the tune and chimed in: “A white silk cloud soars behind me like a gull…” The song closed the distance between them; he no longer felt awkward with the extraordinary old lady. — Time for a rest and a bite, — she suggested. — That food stall looks promising—smell that barbecue? The kebab man—dark-haired, sharp-featured—was skewering meat for grilling, looking as though he’d happily skewer enemies much the same way. He radiated an urge to cry “Huzzah!” and break into a wild Cossack dance. Taking their seats, Mrs. Peters winked and belted out in a surprisingly clear voice: “Sing us a song, John dear, wouldn’t that be grand at a wedding cheer!” The kebab man, caught off guard, joined in for a comic duet. “Sing at a wedding, that’s the plan—John dear, won’t you join in!” — Please help yourselves, honoured madam, — the kebab man beamed, setting out platters, pitta, and herbs with a flourish. He even brought two icy tumblers of Georgian wine, then pressed his hand to his heart and disappeared. The aroma lured out a little grey kitten from the shrubbery, who peered up at them pleadingly. — You’re just what we need! — Mrs. Peters smiled. — Come on, little lad. — She turned to the kebab man, “Sir, could you bring fresh meat for our friend—chopped up small, please!” As the kitten ate, Mrs. Peters admonished George: — You’ve a daughter, that’s all the more reason for a cat! It’s how you teach kindness, care for the weak, love for others. This little chap will help you! Back home, she bathed their new friend while George fetched kitten gear—litter tray, bowls, scratching post, cosy bed. When George staggered back, the flat rang with girlie squeals: Irina and Ella clung to gran, who showered them with kisses. On the sofa, the kitten blinked curiously at his new family. — For you, Ella, a summer shorts set — gran handed out gifts — and for you, Irina—nothing lifts a woman in her husband’s eyes quite like lacy knickers… Olly skipped nursery all week. Gran whisked her away on daily expeditions; they’d return contentedly exhausted. At home, George and the kitten—now Leo—awaited them, and in the evenings, Irina joined for family strolls, kitten in tow. One evening, Mrs. Peters turned serious. — George, I need a word. I’m leaving tomorrow—time’s up. After I’m off, hand this to Irina. — She pressed a document in a transparent wallet into his hand. — It’s my will. I’m leaving her my flat and everything in it. You get my late husband’s cherished library—signed first editions, incredibly rare. — Mrs. Peters, please—! — George protested, but she silenced him with a gesture. —I’ve told Irina nothing, but you should know: serious heart trouble. It could all end suddenly. Better to be prepared. — You shouldn’t be on your own! — George objected. — I’m never truly alone — she smiled. — Besides, Irina’s mum—your other mother-in-law—lives nearby. And you look after Irina and raise Ella well. You’re a good lad, reliable. So I’m like a double mother-in-law for you! — She laughed heartily, clapping him on the shoulder. — Couldn’t you stay a bit longer? — George begged. She smiled gratefully but shook her head. Everyone came to the station, even Leo, in Ella’s arms, was subdued as they said farewell. With her trademark finger-whistle, Mrs. Peters summoned a taxi which screeched to a stop. — Come on, son-in-law, put me on my train! — she called, kissing Irina and Ella and hopping in beside George. The driver gaped at her, having never been hailed quite so directly. — What are you staring at? — muttered George. — Never seen a decent woman before? The wiry gran gave a shake of her silvery curls, shared a high five with George, and burst into ringing laughter.

Well, this is a turn up for the books! Tom blurted out instead of hello, when he opened the front door

La vida

Different Worlds: Igor’s Unconventional Wife—A Striking Blonde with Black Eyes, Wild Passions, and a Photographer’s Spirit—How Marriage, Motherhood, and a Struggle for Understanding Unravel When Her Dreams and Their Lives Take Separate Paths

DIFFERENT PEOPLE My wife, Emily, wasnt like anyone else I knew. Exceptionally beautiful, yesan English

La vida

The Snap of a Dry Twig Went Unheard Beneath Ivan’s Foot: As the World Suddenly Shattered and Swirled Into Stars, Pain Shot Up His Arm, and Little Sasha Rushed to His Side with the Same Words She’d Whisper Across a Lifetime—From Playground Mishaps to Boardroom Threats and in the Final Quiet Between Two Loving Souls, “Everything Will Be Alright, Vanya. Everything Will Be Alright.”

Sam didnt even hear the snap of the dry twig beneath his foot. Suddenly, the entire world turned upside

La vida

018

My Husband’s Mistress: Mila Discovers the Truth in London’s Cosy Coffee Paradise

My Husbands Mistress Mary sat in her car, staring at the navigation screen. She had checked it twiceyes

La vida

0107

“We’ll Stay Until Summer!”: How I Kicked Out My Freeloading In-Laws and Changed the Locks The intercom didn’t simply ring—it wailed for attention. I glanced at the clock: seven a.m. on a Saturday. The one day I’d planned to catch up on sleep after closing the quarter’s accounts, not entertain guests. On the screen: my husband’s sister, looking ready to storm the Bastille, three wild-haired kids huddled behind her. “Igor!” I barked without picking up. “Your family. Deal with it.” He shuffled out in inside-out shorts, knowing from my tone that my patience with his clan had reached bedrock. While he mumbled into the intercom, I stood in the hall, arms crossed. My flat, my rules. This three-bed in central London was bought with blood, sweat, and a soul-sucking mortgage, years before I even met Igor—having strangers under my roof was the last thing I wanted. The door burst open, and in waltzed the caravan. Svetlana—sorry, let’s make her Susan—laden with bags, didn’t bother to say hello. She nudged past me like I was a sideboard. “Thank God, we made it!” she panted, dumping her bags onto my Italian tile. “Come on, put the kettle on, the kids are starving.” “Susan,” I said, voice calm; Igor’s shoulders hunched. “Mind telling me what’s going on?” “What, Igor didn’t say?” She blinked all innocence. “We’ve got building works! Replacing pipes, tearing up floors, dust everywhere. Impossible to live there. We’ll just stay here a week. You’ve loads of space, don’t you?” I looked at my husband. He stared at the ceiling, bracing for execution. “A week,” I said coolly. “And I mean seven days. You sort your own food. The kids don’t run riot or touch my office. Silence after ten.” Susan rolled her eyes. “Bit strict, aren’t you, Anna? Warder or what? Fine, deal. Where do we sleep? Hopefully not on the floor?” Hell began. A “week” stretched to two. Then three. My pristine, designer apartment turned into a pigsty: muddy shoes piled in the hall, chaos in the kitchen—greasy stains on the counters, crumbs, sticky puddles. Susan ruled the place like she owned it. “Anna, your fridge is empty!” she declared one evening, eyeing the shelves. “The kids need yoghurts, and how about beef for me and Igor? You earn well, you could treat your in-laws.” “You have a card and shops. Knock yourself out. Deliveries are 24/7,” I replied, unmoved. “Stingy,” she muttered, slamming the fridge. But the final straw came when I got home early and caught the kids in my bedroom: oldest bouncing on my expensive mattress, youngest drawing on the wall. With. My. Limited-edition. Lipstick. “Out!” I roared—kids scattered. Susan barely flinched at the redecorated wall and ruined lipstick. “They’re kids! It’ll wash off. Lipstick’s just coloured fat. You’ll buy another one. Oh, by the way—our builders are dragging it out, so we’ll stay until summer! You two must be bored here alone, anyway!” Igor hovered, silent. Useless. I fled to the bathroom before I committed a crime. That night, Susan left her phone on the kitchen table. A notification flashed up: “Susan, next month’s rent received. Tenants love the place—can they extend until August?” Then, “£800 received.” Click. There was no building work. She’d rented out her own place for profit and moved her circus into mine, getting free food, bills, and a passive income. Genius. On my dime. I snapped a photo of the message. For once, my hands were steady. “Igor, kitchen. Now.” I showed him the photo. He went white. “Maybe it’s a mistake?” “Mistake is that you haven’t kicked them out yet,” I said coldly. “Your move: have them gone by noon tomorrow, or you can all go. You, your mother, Susan, the lot.” “But where will they go?” “Don’t care. Under a bridge or the Ritz, if they can swing it.” The next morning Susan blithely announced she was “popping out for some lovely boots” (presumably with her rental money), leaving the kids with Igor. “Take the kids to the park. For a long time,” I told him. He questioned, I insisted. “I’m getting rid of some parasites.” Once they’d gone, I called a locksmith. And then the local bobby. Game over—clear-out begins. When Igor returned, the locks were changed and their stuff—crammed in five giant bin bags—was on the landing. By the time Susan waltzed back, loaded with shopping, I waited at the door with the constable. She shrieked, raged, tried to get past—“We have nowhere to live! I’ve got children!”—but the officer blocked her. She threatened to call Igor. I told her to ring. No answer. “Where’s your proof of residence?” the copper asked. “You don’t live here. Time to collect your things.” “Oh, and say hi to Marina,” I added. “Hope your tenants extend until August—otherwise, you’ll have to turf them out.” Susan paled. I continued, each word like a whip crack: “Take your bags and go. So help me, if I see you or your kids anywhere near my street again, I’ll call the tax man—undeclared rental income is a crime. And I’ll report a stolen ring. The police might find it in your bags.” The ring was in my safe, but she didn’t know that. She quivered with rage. “You’re vile, Anna. God will judge you.” “God’s busy. And now, so am I—with my flat, finally all to myself.” When the lift doors closed on Susan, her shopping, and her busted little scheme, I felt only relief. Later, Igor came home, childless, guilt-ridden. “She screamed a lot,” he muttered. “I don’t care what rats shriek as they’re thrown off a ship,” I replied, sipping fresh coffee in silence, my kitchen spotless, fridge full of food I’d actually bought. “Did you know about the rental?” I asked. “No! Honestly, I didn’t!” “If you had, would you have told me?” He didn’t answer. “One more stunt from your family, and your suitcase will be next to theirs,” I finished. He nodded, nervously. He knew I wasn’t kidding. I took another sip. The coffee was perfect: hot, strong, and best of all, drunk in the peace and quiet of my own, reclaimed home. Long live the queen—crown fits just fine.

Well stay here till summer!: How I sent my husbands brazen relatives packing and changed the locks.

La vida

Someone Else’s Bride Valery was in high demand. He never advertised in newspapers or on TV, but his name and phone number were passed around by word of mouth—the grapevine did all the work. Need a host for a concert? No problem! Birthday party or wedding? Excellent! He’d even once presided over a kindergarten graduation, winning the hearts of both the children and their mums. It all began simply enough. A close mate got married, but the emcee they’d booked in advance didn’t show up—turns out he’d gone on a bender. With no time to find anyone else, Valery grabbed the microphone. At school he’d taken part in amateur dramatics, joined the school theatre club, and at university he was always a star of Open Mic Night and student comedy contests. Impromptu hosting suited him, and right there, in the function hall, two people asked if he could run their events as well. After graduating, Valery got a job at one of the city’s research institutions earning next to nothing. His first fees as an entertainer inspired him—he took on every event, enjoying not only the financial boost but also a great sense of satisfaction. Soon his earnings from hosting outstripped his research salary by nearly tenfold. After a year, Valery took the plunge: he left the institute, used his savings to buy quality equipment, registered as self-employed, and officially went into show business. He started taking singing lessons, too—he already had a voice and an ear for music. Soon he was a singing host, performing as a lounge singer three nights a week at a posh restaurant. Now, approaching 30, Valery was good-looking, fairly well off, and had built a reputation as a solid singer, DJ, and top-notch host who could save any party. He wasn’t married—why bother? Women flocked to him; any girl he fancied was up for it. But his friends were settling down and having kids, and gradually Valery began to yearn for quiet, family happiness. Problem was, there was nobody he wanted it with! The easy girls were fine for a fling, but he longed for something once and for all, for life. “You need to meet someone young, raise her ‘just right,’ and then marry her when she turns 18. That’s the ideal wife right there!” he half-joked. He started taking on bookings for school proms, hoping to spot his future partner. But modern girls disappointed him—they weren’t what he’d imagined. Still, Valery wasn’t discouraged. He kept an eye on the young ones, as he jokingly put it, “hunting rare game.” That’s when fate decided to have a laugh at my cousin’s expense. At first, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. A woman rang up, said she’d got his details from friends: “We need a host for a wedding. Are you free June 17th? Wonderful! Can we meet?” They met. And right then, according to Valery, he understood the saying “the ground slipped from under my feet.” The woman, who introduced herself as Christina, was dazzling—he’d never seen anyone quite like her up close. She was articulate, intelligent, all business, listed exactly what was needed. Valery found himself unable to look away. Someone was very lucky indeed—not only was she beautiful, she was obviously clever too. A rare combination! At first glance she seemed around 25, maybe a little older. But in conversation she mentioned she’d been in the Young Socialists, so she had to be at least 40! They sorted out all the details, came to an agreement, and drew up a contract, though Christina protested: “No need, I trust you—you come highly recommended!” Valery always worked with contracts, making sure both he and his clients stuck rigidly to the terms. He insisted: “I need to file paperwork for tax—can’t have any problems.” In truth, he just wanted physical proof that Christina really existed, that this wasn’t a dream. Her phone pinged—a message. “Oh, my fiancé’s here to pick me up. Do you need a lift?” Valery said no but followed her out to the car park. He always did this if the couple arrived separately, to size up how they acted around each other. But this time, jealousy rather than curiosity drove him. The groom surprised him—he’d pictured a man of about forty, to match the bride. But out of the car bounced a guy clearly younger than himself. “Christina, everything alright?” She smiled, as if to say, “Why wouldn’t it be?” and got into the car. The groom turned to Valery: “You’re the one hosting our wedding? Great, Slava’s told me you’re the best,” he said, giving Valery a handshake. “Sorry, forgot to introduce myself—Christina will scold me later. I’m Robert, the groom.” More than anything, Valery wanted to punch this “Robert, the groom,” and wipe that smug smile off his face, but instead he just shook his hand. “Valery. Nice to meet you.” From that moment, Valery lost all peace and sleep. He obsessed over any excuse to call Christina, to hear her voice, to meet her again. The wedding day loomed closer and Valery thought he was losing his mind. His one confidant needled him: “Whatever happened to the schoolgirls you were going to raise into ideal wives?” Valery just waved him off: “Forget that. Christina’s perfect—she’s all I want now!” “Then tell her,” his friend shrugged, but got a sharp reply: “Are you mad? She’s getting married, so she must love him. What would she want with me and my daft feelings?” Sometimes Robert would drop by, beaming: “Christina asked me to drop this off for you…” Valery hated him in those moments, barely able to hold back a retort. He even considered backing out of the wedding, reputation be damned—but that would mean never seeing Christina again. He caved in cowardly fear. Two days before the wedding, Christina dropped round to Valery’s flat—she said, “just to polish the script, make sure everything’s perfect.” His office was undergoing renovations, so their meeting moved to his home. They chatted about nothing important, laughed, both on top form. Script done, Valery poured a glass of prosecco for a toast. “To the perfect wedding.” Christina laughed: “Why not!” She was radiant, and Valery, buoyed by bubbles, kissed her. And, to his shock, she kissed him back. The world turned upside down. Valery woke with a start. He looked around—had he imagined the best night of his life? No sight of Christina, but her perfume lingered on a pillow. So it was real… In turmoil, he called her. “Hey…” She answered brightly: “Hi! How are you? Sorry I ducked out early, but you know how it is—the wedding’s tomorrow!” “So…the wedding’s still on?” he croaked. “Of course! Why wouldn’t it be? Everything’s grand!” Was she really so cynical? How could she look her groom in the eye after last night? Valery was torn—should he ruin the wedding? Did he even want such a heartless woman? Answer: Yes. Any form of her. Next day, he arrived at the venue early. The decorators were finishing up, throwing him flirty glances. Then— He couldn’t believe it—Christina came up to him. “Hi. I ran off straight after the ceremony—just wanted to see you,” she flashed a dazzling smile. “You alright, Valery?” “I don’t get it,” he stammered. “So, the ceremony’s over? Then you legged it?” “Yeah, silly. Why ride around with the kids when I could spend time with you? Or aren’t you happy to see me?” “Wait, what kids? Aren’t you the bride?” Christina stared at him for a few seconds, then burst out laughing. It was a pure, joyful sound, and Valery couldn’t help but smile back. “Of course not! My daughter Kiera is the bride—she’s at university in Leeds, just flew in yesterday,” she stopped laughing, “Did you think I was the bride? And that I’d sleep around two nights before my wedding? Charming.” Only then did it dawn on Valery—Christina never once said “I” or “we”—always “the bride and groom.” And Robert never called her “Kiera,” only “Christina” and always formally. How had he not noticed? He felt foolish… and then he finally asked the real question: “And you? Are you… free?” She nodded. He blurted out: “Marry me! Please…” The wedding was stunning, the host outdid himself, the guests were thrilled. The young couple thanked Valery: “Thank you so much! We’ve no idea how to repay you for such an amazing evening.” “I’ll thank him myself,” said Christina, joining them. “You two go on—the limo’s waiting. I’ll keep an eye on things here.” The news—Valery marrying a woman nine years his senior—spread quickly among the family. People were wary at first, but after meeting the bride everyone agreed: “How could you not fall for someone like that?” Kiera and Christina both gave birth within a fortnight of each other.

A Strangers Bride I was in high demand. I never once placed an advert in the paper or on the telly, but