He tended to her as if she were his own child, but all he truly wanted was for her to die.
Elena didnt scream. She didnt weep. She simply lay still in the bed, absorbing every word Pavel uttered, each sentence sounding like a confession to an unseen accomplice. Her body trembled, but not from fearsomething else a chilling calm, as if a part of her had died long before the cancer could consume everything.
The next morning Pavel behaved as though nothing had occurred. He greeted her with a kiss on the cheek, asked whether she wanted tea, and even swept the hallwaya task he never performed before. Elena watched him in silence, her face now bearing a new look: composed, wise and dangerous.
Days passed. She grew more introspective, sorting papers, signing documents, and discreetly contacting her lawyer. Katya came to visit and spent the afternoon with her, unaware that their quiet chat concealed a scheme.
Aunt, are you sure? Katya whispered while reading the will.
More sure than ever. Everything must be in its place. And he, out of it.
When Pavel returned that night, Elena had the dinner ready: baked chicken, his favorite dish. He smiled, content.
Just the way I like it he said as he plated his food. We have to look after each other, right?
She stared at him with an expression that unsettled him.
Whats wrong? he asked.
Nothing. I just think you should savor every bite.
That same evening Pavel went to bed early, oddly fatigued. Elena stayed in the living room, staring at an old photograph of the two of them. She was smiling in the picture, and he was too, though now his face resembled a hollow mask.
The following morning Pavel awoke with unbearable discomfortnausea, sweat, weakness. Elena helped him to sit up.
Should I call a doctor? she asked in a neutral tone.
No maybe its just something I ate he stammered.
At that moment the doorbell rang. Two police officers stood at the entrance. Pavel tried to rise but collapsed. The officers entered swiftly.
What whats happening? one demanded, noticing Elenas calm.
Stay calm. I have evidence she replied, handing them a balcony recording and a newly notarized will that renounced everything she shared with Pavel. He tried to poison me months ago, before I knew my diagnosis. I couldnt prove it then but now I can show that I waited for my death as an investment.
The later medical report would confirm that Pavel had not been poisoned; he had merely ingested a mild sedative mixed with cheap liquor. Nevertheless, the recording, the updated will, and the documented contempt were enough for the judge to issue a restraining order and to nullify any claim he might have had on the inheritance.
Elena passed away two months later, at peace, in Katyas arms, in a sunfilled room without fear. On the wall hung a plaque that read:
This apartment was earned by work, not by counterfeit love.
