Olga Had Spent All Day Preparing for New Year’s Eve: Cleaning, Cooking, Setting the Table—Her First New Year Away from Her Parents, Celebrating with the Man She Loved. She’d Been Living for Three Months with Tony in His Flat—He Was 15 Years Older, Divorced, Paid Child Support, Enjoyed a Drink Now and Then, and Had No Money (Except for Himself)—But None of That Mattered When You’re in Love. Why Olga Fell for Him, No One Could Understand: He Was No Looker, Had a Rotten Temper, Miserly to the Core, and Penniless—Yet Her Heart Belonged to This Odd Duck. All Three Months, Olga Hoped Tony Would Notice How Caring and Domestic She Was and Finally Want to Marry Her. He Always Said, “Let’s Live Together First, See What Kind of Homemaker You Are—You Might Be Just Like My Ex!” Olga Only Knew He’d Never Say a Word About His Ex, So She Tried Her Hardest: Never Complained When He Came Home Drunk, Did All the Housework, Bought the Groceries with Her Own Money (Just in Case He Thought She Was After His), Even Covered the New Year’s Feast Herself—and Bought Him a New Phone as a Gift. While Olga Got Ready for the Party, Tony Was “Prepping” in His Own Way—Drinking with Friends, Then Strolling Home Merry to Announce Guests for New Year’s: His Mates, Strangers to Her. Olga Set the Table, One Hour to Midnight. Her Mood Ruined, She Bit Her Tongue—She Wasn’t Going to Be Like His Ex. Half an Hour to Midnight, a Drunk Crowd Burst In. Tony Brightened Up, Seated Everyone, the Boozing Continued. Tony Didn’t Even Introduce Olga—No One Noticed Her, They Just Ate Her Food and Laughed Among Themselves. When Olga Announced It Was Nearly Midnight and Suggested Champagne, They Looked at Her Like an Uninvited Guest. “Who’s That Then?” Slurred a Woman. “Just the Bedside Neighbour,” Tony Joked—And Everyone Laughed at Olga. Tony Didn’t Defend Her, He Laughed Along; Stuffed His Face with Food She Bought and Cooked, and Let His Friends Mock Her. Quietly, Olga Packed Her Things and Went Home to Her Parents—The Worst New Year She’d Ever Had. Mum Said, “I Told You So”; Dad Looked Relieved; Olga Finally Took Off Her Rose-Tinted Glasses. A Week Later, When Tony’s Money Ran Out, He Turned Up Like Nothing Happened: “So Why’d You Leave Then? Got the Hump?”—Seeing She Wasn’t Taking Him Back, He Got Nasty: “Oh Well, Nice One—You’re Lazing at Mum and Dad’s While My Fridge Is Empty! You’re Acting Just Like My Ex!” Olga Was Speechless. She’d Rehearsed What She’d Say, But Now Could Only Slam the Door and Tell Him Off. And So, From New Year’s, Olga’s New Life Began.

Author Emily TaylorReading 4 minViews 2

31st December

Ive spent the entire day getting the flat ready for New Years Evecleaning, cooking, laying the table with my best bits and pieces. Its the first time Im ringing in the new year not with my parents, but with someone I love. For the past three months, Ive been living with Simon in his flat. Hes fifteen years older than me, previously married, pays maintenance for his son, and, honestly, enjoys his whisky a bit too much sometimes but none of that seemed to matter to me when I fell for him.

Not one of my friends could ever understand what it was that drew me to Simon. Hes not exactly a lookerin fact, some would flatly call him unattractive. Hes quick-tempered, unreasonably tight-fisted, and constantly broke, never sparing a pound unless its for himself. Yet somehow, I fell head over heels for this chap.

I spent the past months hoping hed notice how easy-going and handy I am around the home. I thought perhaps hed want to make things official. He always had the same line: Lets live together a bit, see what youre like around the house. Dont want a repeat of my ex. What went so wrong with his ex, hed never actually say. So I did my best: never nagged if he came home tipsy, kept the place nice, cooked, did his laundry, and footed the grocery bill (God forbid Simon think Im after his money!). I even splashed out on the whole New Years spread myself. Bought him a new phone for his present, too.

While I was bustling about the kitchen, Simon was out preparing in his own special waydown the pub, getting sloshed with his mates. He staggered in, cheerful as you like, and announced his friends would be joining us for New Years. Friends Id never met before. Id just finished setting the table, one hour to midnight, and suddenly my plans were out the window. Still, I bit my tongueI wasnt going to make a scene, not wanting to be just like his ex.

Thirty minutes before midnight, his crowd invadeda loud, drunk bunch, men and women alike. Simon brightened up instantly and herded them all to the table. What followed was little more than a drunken knees-up. Simon didnt even introduce me. I was invisible, stuck in the corner, while they jabbered on with their own jokes. At some point, I piped up, Its almost midnightshall I pour the bubbly? The lot of them looked at me as if Id wandered in off the street.

Whos she, then? slurred one of the women.

Bedside neighbour! Simon cracked, sending the group into peals of laughter at my expense.

They scoffed the food Id cooked, mocking me the whole time. As Big Bens chimes rung in the new year, they toasted Simons cleverness in finding himself a live-in maid who also cooks for free. And Simon? Sat there, laughing with them, chewing on the dinner I paid for and made, treating me like a doormat.

I quietly left the room, packed my bag, and slipped out the door, heading back home to Mum and Dads. Id never had a worse night in my life. Mum said what she always saysTold you so! Dad just looked relieved. I cried my eyes out and, for the first time, saw everything without the rose-tinted glasses.

A week on, Simon showed up at my parents door, clearly skint. He breezed in as if nothing happened. So whyd you bugger off? Did I offend you or something? When he saw I wasnt buying it, he tried a different tack: Oh, brilliantyou laze about with Mum and Dad and meanwhile, theres not a crumb in my fridge! Youre acting just like my ex now!

I was honestly shocked by his nerve. Id imagined so many times how Id give him a piece of my mind, but I just stood there, lost for words. All I managed was to tell him where to goquite bluntly, mindand close the door in his face.

And so, with the new year, I started a new chapter in life. The lesson? Never mistake being taken for granted as being loved.

No Longer Welcome: How a Daughter Rejected Her Mother Because of Her Appearance Sorry, Mum, please don’t come over right now, alright? — my daughter said quietly, almost offhandedly, as she laced up her trainers in the hallway. — Thank you for everything, honestly, but right now… right now it’s better if you stay home, have a rest. I already had my bag in hand and was pulling on my coat, ready as usual to head over and look after my granddaughter while my daughter went to her yoga class. It was always our routine — I’d arrive, watch the baby, and then head back to my little studio flat. But today something was different. After she spoke, I just stood there, frozen. Had something happened? Had I done something wrong? Not put the baby to bed properly? Chosen the wrong babygrow? Fed her at the wrong time? Or maybe just looked at her the wrong way? But no, it was something much more banal — and hurtful. It was about her in-laws. Wealthy, influential, well connected — they’d suddenly decided to come over every day to “see” their granddaughter. With serious faces, they’d unpack gifts and sit in the living room at the table they’d bought themselves. They’d given the young couple the flat, too. The furniture, the tea — all from them. They brought over a caddy of posh Darjeeling and made themselves at home. And apparently now my granddaughter was “theirs”, too. And me… I was just excess. Me, a railway worker after 30 years of service, an ordinary woman, no titles, no jewels, no fancy hair or fashionable clothes. — Just look at yourself, Mum, — my daughter said. — You’ve put on weight. Your hair’s gone grey. You look… scruffy. Those jumpers, so tasteless. And you always smell like trains. Do you understand? I was silent. What could I possibly say? When she left, I looked in the mirror. Yes, I saw a woman with tired eyes, little lines by her mouth, in a stretched-out jumper, cheeks round and flushed with shame. Disgust at myself hit me like a rainstorm on a clear day. I went out for air and felt my throat tighten as traitorous, bitter tears pricked my eyes and slid hotly down my cheeks. Then I returned to my little flat on the edge of town, sat down on the sofa, and picked up my old phone with all its saved photos. There was my daughter — just a little girl. With ribbons on her first day at school. Her graduation, her diploma, her wedding, and now my granddaughter — smiling in her cot. My whole life in these pictures. Everything I had lived for. Everything I had poured my energy into. And now, if they said “don’t come,” then so it should be. My time was over. I’d played my role. Now, I should keep out of the way. Not be a burden. Not spoil their life with my unbecoming looks. If I was ever needed — they’d call. Maybe they’d call. Some time went by. Then, one day, the phone rang. — Mum… — her voice was strained. — Could you come over? The nanny’s quit, the in-laws… well, they’ve shown their true colours. André’s out with his mates, I’m all alone. I was silent for a moment. Then answered calmly: — Sorry, love. I can’t right now. I need to look after myself for a while. To become “worthy”, as you said. When that day comes — maybe I’ll be there. I hung up and, for the first time in a long while, I smiled. Sadly, but proudly.

00

There Will Be No Forgiveness — Have you ever thought about finding your mother? The question caught Vicky so off guard that she flinched. She was laying out papers from work on the kitchen table — the pile looked ready to tumble, and she carefully steadied it with her palm. Now she froze, slowly let her hands drop, and looked up at Alex. There was genuine bewilderment in her eyes: where on earth did he get such an idea? Why on earth would she want to track down the woman who’d carelessly shattered almost her entire life? — Of course not, — Vicky replied, trying to keep her voice flat. — What a ridiculous idea. Why would I ever do that? Alex looked a bit awkward. He ran a hand through his hair, as if struggling to gather his thoughts, and managed a small, slightly forced smile, already seeming to regret his question. — Well… — he hesitated, searching for words. — I just know that lots of kids from foster care or children’s homes dream about tracking down their birth parents. So I thought… If you ever wanted to, I’d help. Really. Vicky shook her head. Her chest tightened as if some unseen hand had gripped her ribs. She took a deep breath, calming an unexpected surge of irritation, and looked at Alex again. — Thank you for offering, but I don’t need that, — she said firmly, raising her voice just a touch. — I will never go looking for her! That woman hasn’t existed for me for years. I’ll never forgive her! Yes, it sounded harsh — but what else could she say? Otherwise she’d have to dredge up too many bad memories and lay her soul bare for her fiancé. No, she loved him, she really did, but there are some things you never want to share, even with those closest to you. So she reached for her paperwork again, adopting a busy air. Alex frowned, but didn’t push it. He was clearly troubled by Vicky’s sharpness. Deep down, he couldn’t grasp her attitude! To him, a mother was an almost sacred figure — whether she’d raised him or not. Simply carrying a child for nine months and bringing it into the world made a woman practically angelic in his eyes. He truly believed in that special, unbreakable bond between mother and child that neither time nor circumstances could destroy. Vicky not only didn’t share those beliefs — she rejected them outright, without the slightest doubt. For her, it was painfully simple: how could you possibly want to meet someone who’d treated you so cruelly? Her so-called “mum” hadn’t just dumped her in care — it was worse, far more painful… Years ago, as a teenager, Vicky had finally asked the question that had tormented her for years. She approached the head of the children’s home, Mrs Thompson — a strict but fair woman all the children respected. — Why am I here? — Vicky asked, quiet but resolute. — Did my mum die? Or did she lose her rights? Something really serious must have happened, right? Mrs Thompson froze in the act of sorting her paperwork, then slowly put the papers aside. She was silent for a few seconds, weighing her words, then sighed and nodded for Vicky to sit. Vicky sat, fingers twisting the edge of the chair. Anxiety was churning inside — she could sense that this answer would change everything. — She was stripped of parental rights and faced prosecution, — Mrs Thompson began slowly and carefully. Calm as ever, but in her eyes, worry: she had to tell a twelve-year-old the plain, ugly truth most would want to shield. She could have softened it, she thought, but no — Vicky had the right to know it all. Better reality than ignorance. She paused to gather her thoughts, then continued. — You came to us when you were four and a half. Some concerned passers-by spotted you — a small child, alone, wandering the streets. Later it turned out a woman had abandoned you on a bench at the train station, then boarded the commuter train and left. It was autumn, cold and damp, and you wore only a light coat and wellies. Several hours outside landed you in hospital. You were really unwell and wound up needing a long stay. Vicky sat stock still, as if turned to stone. Her fingers clenched into fists, but her face stayed blank — only her eyes darkened, like storm clouds. She said nothing, but Mrs Thompson knew the girl was absorbing every brutal word. — Did they find her? What did she say for herself? — Vicky whispered, fists still clenched. — They did, and she stood trial. As for her justification… — Mrs Thompson paused, then gave a bitter half-smile. — She claimed she’d run out of money and found a job — only her new boss banned children onsite. You got in her way. It was at a guest house or somewhere. She decided it was easier just to abandon you and start afresh. Vicky didn’t move. The tension in her fists slowly eased, her hands dropped to her knees. She stared straight ahead, as if seeing nothing — her thoughts far away, in that autumn morning she didn’t even remember. — I see… — she said at last, her voice flat, almost lifeless. Then she looked up at Mrs Thompson. — Thank you for telling me the truth. That was the moment Vicky realised, finally and absolutely: she would never search for her mother. Not ever. The idle curiosity that had sometimes flickered at the back of her mind — the thought that one day she might just want to look her in the eyes and ask “why?” — vanished, never to return. Leaving a child alone in the street. She simply couldn’t grasp it! How could anyone possibly do such a thing? Did the woman who gave birth to her really have no conscience, no compassion? Anything could have happened to a little kid. “That’s not a mother, that’s an animal!” Vicky told herself, the old pain twisting inside her. She tried, honestly tried, to find some excuse. Maybe her mother was desperate. Maybe she really had no options. Maybe she thought Vicky would be better off. But every time her reasoning crumbled on the rocks of cold reality: why not just sign the forms? Why not hand her in safely? Why leave a four-year-old alone in the cold autumn air? No answer fit. None eased the pain or turned betrayal into necessity. She could only see it as what it was — deliberate, heartless rejection. With each turn of these thoughts, her resolve hardened. No. She would not seek this woman. She would not ask questions. She would not try to understand. Because no understanding could erase what had been done. And forgiveness — that was beyond her power. And with that decision came an odd, near-physical relief… ******************** — I’ve got a surprise for you! — Alex was almost glowing with excitement, bouncing on the spot in the hallway as if he’d won the lottery. “You’re going to love this! Come on — we can’t keep someone waiting!” Vicky stopped at the bedroom door, mug of cold tea in hand. She looked at Alex in puzzlement, set the mug down, wariness prickling inside her despite his cheerful tone. What was this surprise? And why did she feel a thread of tension, ready to snap? — Where are we going? — She managed to keep her tone conversational. — You’ll see! – Alex’s grin widened even more; he grabbed her hand and led her toward the front door. — Trust me, it’s worth it. Vicky followed, outwardly calm, anxiety coiling inside as they left for the park. She racked her brain — tickets to a concert? Meeting an old friend? Nothing seemed to fit. As they entered the park, Vicky spotted a middle-aged woman alone on a bench: simple but neat — dark coat, scarf, a small handbag on her knees. Her face seemed vaguely familiar, but Vicky couldn’t place it. A relative of Alex’s? A colleague? Alex strode over to the bench; Vicky trailed, still trying to knit the puzzle pieces. As they approached, the woman looked up, a slight smile on her face. Suddenly, inside, something shifted — Vicky realised where she’d seen this face before. In the mirror. Add thirty or forty years. — Vicky, — Alex’s voice was grand, as if announcing a winner, — I’ve found your mum after all these years. Aren’t you happy? The world froze. How dare he? She had told him so clearly she never wanted to see this woman! — Darling! You’ve grown so beautiful! — The woman jumped up, arms out for an embrace. Her voice shook with emotion, eyes shining as if she genuinely wanted this reunion. But Vicky recoiled, stepping away, cold and unmoving. — It’s me, your mum! — the woman pressed on, ignoring (or not registering) the reception. — I’ve searched for you for so long! I always thought about you, always worried… — It wasn’t easy! — Alex added proudly from behind. — I called in favours, made a dozen calls, tracked down the records… But I did it! His triumph was cut short by a sharp slap. Vicky’s hand flew up with no hesitation, her eyes shining with tears of rage and pain. She glared at him, hurt and bewildered — how could he? After all the times she’d said she wanted nothing to do with her mother, that chapter was forever closed! — Are you mad?! — Alex gasped, clutching his cheek, thoroughly shocked. — I did it for you! I was trying to help, to do something good… Vicky said nothing. Inside, everything seethed with pain and anger. A person she’d trusted had broken the most sacred rule: never touch her past. Her most guarded memories had been laid bare, all for his “good intentions.” The woman looked lost, glancing between Vicky and Alex, uncertain. She tried to speak but stopped as she registered the look on Vicky’s face. — I didn’t ask you to find her, — Vicky managed quietly. Her voice was steady despite trembling inside. — I made it clear I didn’t want this! You still went behind my back! Alex lowered his hand, speechless, searching her face for any sign she’d forgive him, that her anger would fade. He found only steely resolve. — I said I never wanted to even hear about her! — Vicky’s whole body shook. She glared at Alex, eyes betraying not only anger but deep, old pain. — This “mother” abandoned me at four years old! Alone! At a train station! In just a thin coat! You think I can forgive that? Alex went pale but stood his ground. He straightened as if to make his argument unassailable. — She’s still your mum. That’s what matters — she’s your mother! The woman, outnumbered, stepped forward timidly. Her voice was small, apologetic, as though seeking forgiveness she didn’t truly believe she deserved: — You kept getting sick, I had no money for the doctor — I had a chance to earn, at last! I would have collected you, you know? It all could have worked out, we’d be together… Vicky spun on her, not a trace of sympathy — only long-honed bitterness: — Collected me? From a cemetery? — Her words were as cold and sharp as winter wind. — You could have asked social services for help, declared yourself temporarily unfit! Left me in hospital if I was so fragile! But not on the street! Not alone, not in the cold! Alex, desperate to defuse things, tried to take her hand. She pulled away, not even glancing at him. — The past is in the past, we need to live for today, — he insisted, as if convincing himself. — You said you wanted your own family at the wedding. Well, I’ve made your wish come true… Vicky finally looked at him, such disappointment in her gaze that Alex physically recoiled. — I invited Mrs Thompson, the head of the children’s home, and Mrs Lewis, my foster carer, — her voice was quiet now but unshakable. — They are my real mothers! They were there when it hurt! They taught me, supported me, cared. They’re my family. With that, Vicky tore her hand away from Alex and stormed out of the park. Her legs carried her far from that bench, from the conversation, from the man she had trusted more than anyone. There was a storm raging inside, making it hard even to breathe. Such betrayal from her fiancé — she would never have expected it. She hadn’t kept secrets from him. On the contrary: she’d been honest about her childhood, with no sugar-coating. She’d told him about those first days in care, still hoping her mum would come back. Alex had listened, nodded, claimed he understood. He had still gone and found her mother. Still brought her here. “Doesn’t matter, she’s your mother,” his words echoed in her head, stirring up more bitterness. “Never!” Vicky resolved. She would never let that woman into her life, never pretend nothing had happened. She didn’t stop once as she left the park and wandered down the street, barely registering her way. Her mother’s face — older now, fraught with anxious hope — kept flashing up in her mind’s eye. Vicky forced the image away. All she wanted now was to put as much distance as possible between herself and all of this. She didn’t even return to Alex’s place for her things — luckily, she had only a couple of bags there. The proper move-in was set for after the wedding, so most of her things were still in the council flat. That made things easier. Most important was not to go back there now, while the pain was so raw. Her phone buzzed and buzzed — Alex calling, over and over. She stared at the screen, saw his name, and didn’t answer. If she picked up now, she’d probably say things she’d regret. Better to wait out the first wave of hurt. Alex didn’t give up. In addition to calls, a few voice messages came through, his voice edged with irritation: — Vicky, you’re behaving like a child! I tried to do the right thing, and you — you’re just ungrateful! This is just drama, pure drama! A second message, harsher still: — I’ve decided. Linda will be at the wedding. End of. I’m not going to change my mind because of your whims. We’re going to maintain proper family ties. Our children will call her Granny. That’s normal, that’s right! Vicky stood at the bus stop, listening as he ranted, feeling the last strands of her strength fray. She switched off her phone, pocketed it, and looked up at the sky. Her whole world had cracked. She didn’t know how to put it back together. Vicky scrolled through the last messages, still hearing Alex’s unyielding, final words: “Linda will be at the wedding. End of.” That sentence etched itself into her soul. She opened her texts and typed a message, reading it through a few times. A simple line, clear and without ambiguity: “There will be no wedding. I don’t want to see either of you — not you, not her.” She sent it. Watched for the tick to show it had gone through, then put the phone down. Almost instantly her phone lit up — Alex trying to call again. Vicky didn’t move. More messages followed, but she ignored them. Instead, she opened her contacts, found her now ex-fiancé, and blocked his number without hesitation. Silence settled over her like a blanket, bringing a strange sense of relief. Maybe later she’d regret it. Maybe. But for now, it was the only step she could take. She felt the storm inside her give way to weary clarity. It was right. She had no future with someone capable of this… There Will Be No Forgiveness

04

A Father’s True Son “Len, you won’t believe it! Matvey and I have decided to fly out to Turkey again next year!” My stepfather practically glowed with happiness. “He says he needs that hotel with the sea view again. What can I do? He’s my own son, after all.” It struck me how naturally he clarified—his **own** son. “I’m happy for you,” I replied, remembering how good things used to be before this Matvey appeared, “Your own son… And you always said we’re a family. That it makes no difference, whether real or not.” He did say that. That I was his daughter, and it didn’t matter if we were blood. “There you go again… Come on, Len! You’re my daughter, that’s not up for discussion! You know I love you like my own. But Matvey…” He didn’t even realise he’d just proved my point. “Matvey is a son. And I’m just an acquaintance, I suppose.” “Len, what are you on about? I keep telling you, you’re like a daughter to me!” “Like a daughter… Did you ever take me to the seaside? Not once in all those fifteen years you called yourself my dad?” He hadn’t. Arthur always insisted there was no difference between me and Matvey, but as I listened to how much he did for his son, I realised—the difference was massive. “It just never worked out, Len. You know in the old days, money was tight. You know how expensive two weeks in a five-star hotel are…” he muttered, “Costly, that.” “I understand,” I nodded, “Expense. Too pricey to take me. But Matvey, who you met six months ago, you’re already thinking about taking out a mortgage to buy him a flat, so he has somewhere to bring his wife. That’s a small thing, if it’s your son?” “I’m not buying any flat. Who told you that?” “People talk.” “Well, tell them not to spread nonsense.” A flicker of hope. “Really, you’re not?” “Of course not. Oh, and guess where we’re going on Saturday?” he didn’t wait for me to answer, “Go-karting! Back at uni, Matvey was into racing—me, I’m just tagging along.” “Go-karting,” I repeated, “Sounds exciting.” “Absolutely!” “Can I come with you?” The question slipped out before I could help it. Arthur, desperate to say no, rattled off, “Uh… Len… You’d be bored. Honestly. It’s a lads’ thing. Me and Matvey—we’ll have a father-son chat.” How it hurt… “So… interesting for you, but not for me?” “Not exactly… It’s just, you know, we missed out on a lifetime together. We want to make up for it. Just the two of us. You understand?” Oh, I understood. “You understand” had become the cruellest phrase in our new vocabulary. I was meant to understand that blood mattered more than adoption. I was meant to understand my place was now outside the gate. Matvey was perfect. Raised without a father because his mother never told Arthur about him, yet against all odds, he was good, clever, kind. “Dad, I fixed the cages at the animal shelter.” “Oh, and Dad, you know I graduated with first class honours?” “Dad, look, I fixed your phone.” Not just a son—an ideal son. Later that same day, after Arthur had stopped by before going home, I lingered over old photos… Arthur’s wedding to my mother (she died five years ago, leaving just me and Arthur). Us at the cottage… Me finishing school… Nothing would ever be the same. *** “Len, are you awake? I’ve got a question. Urgent,” my stepfather turned up at eight in the morning. “What’s so urgent?” I pushed back my fringe and started the coffee machine. “About that flat for Matvey.” “So it is true?” I breathed. “Sorry but… yes, it is.” “And you lied to me.” “I just didn’t want to upset you. But I need your advice! I’m thinking we have to move quickly—he might get married any time. Best to get him a place now, you know how I struggled at his age…” “So go for the mortgage,” I snapped, not wanting to talk about Matvey’s perfect set-up. “Yeah, yeah, I know. But you know my credit history… Matvey deserves his dad, who he never had, to help him buy a home.” “And your point?” “Will you help, if I ask?” “Depends how.” “I’ll explain. I’ve got £20,000—that’s enough for a deposit. But the bank won’t give me a loan. They’ll give you one. Your credit’s clean. We can put it in your name, I’ll handle the payments, I promise.” Any illusion that there was “no difference between you” was shattered for good. There was a difference. I wasn’t sending Matvey into the firing line. “So Matvey gets the flat, and I get stuck with the mortgage? That it?” Arthur shook his head, as if hurt by my words. As if it was my idea. “Don’t be like that! I’ll pay… I’m not asking you for money. It just needs to be in your name. Just think about it…” “You know, Arthur, I’m not wondering about the mortgage. I’m wondering how you stopped thinking of me as your daughter. You have a real son now. You’ve known him six months. Me, fifteen years—but it’s only him that matters, because he’s your own.” “That’s not true!” Arthur flared, “I love you both the same!” “No—it’s not the same.” “That’s not fair! But he’s my real…” Curtain. I was no longer his daughter. Just the convenient one; good enough until the genuine article appeared. “Fine,” I tried to be polite. “I can’t, Arthur. I’ll need a flat myself one day. And the bank won’t give me a second loan.” Arthur seemed to only just remember I had nowhere of my own. “Oh, right, you’ll need one too…” he fiddled with his watch. “But right now, until you’re ready to buy, you could help me out. I’ve got £20,000—it’s not much more. Only for a couple years.” “No. I’m not signing anything for you.” I never expected him to understand. “Alright,” he said, “If you can’t help me as a daughter… I’ll just figure something else out.” Whether he’d ever truly considered me his child didn’t matter any more. Now, Arthur was only someone I saw in old pictures. One evening as I scrolled through the feed, I saw it. A photo from the airport. Arthur and Matvey, both wearing pale jackets. Arthur’s hand resting proudly on Matvey’s shoulder. Caption: “Off to Dubai with Dad. Family is everything.” Family. I put the phone aside. Suddenly, I remembered a moment from my early childhood, long before my mum married Arthur. I was about five. We lived modestly, and my favourite doll from Granny broke. I cried, but my own father said, “Len, why are you crying over such nonsense? Don’t interrupt me!” He couldn’t be interrupted. His main interest was the bottle. I guess I never had a dad. I thought Arthur had replaced him… But a while later, Arthur tried again. “Len, I think we need to do something about this trust issue between us…” “What trust issue, Arthur? I told you: no.” “You just don’t get it. Matvey… he never knew me. He was fatherless. I have to fix that. He needs somewhere to live. And it’s not like I need anything much from you, just to have your name on the paperwork—I guarantee you won’t spend a penny.” “Who’ll make up for my missing pieces…” That annoyed him. “Len, enough! I don’t want an argument! I love you, really! But you have to understand… Matvey is my real family. When you have kids, you’ll see. Look, I love you both—just differently. Doesn’t mean I don’t need you.” “You need me—as a resource.” “Len, come on! You’re overreacting.” “You switched to him within six months, Arthur,” I said. “I’m not asking you to choose. The choice is obvious. Matvey is your real one. I never was.” Six months passed. Arthur never called. Not once. Once again scrolling through my news feed, I saw another photo. Arthur and Matvey, this time in the mountains. Arthur in fancy ski gear. The caption: “Teaching Dad to snowboard! He might be a bit old for this, but with your son, anything’s possible.” I stared at the photo for a long time. I reached for my laptop to finish a report when my phone buzzed. Unknown number. “Hi, Lena. It’s Matvey. Dad gave me your number but he can’t call. He wanted me to tell you: he sorted the flat without you, but he’s worried about you. And he hopes you’ll come see us over the bank holiday. He can’t explain, but he really wants you there.” I wrote a reply and rewrote it, over and over. “Hi Matvey. Tell Arthur I’m very glad he’s doing well. I’m thinking of him too. But I’m not coming. I’ve got my own plans for the bank holiday. I’m off to the seaside.” I didn’t say I bought my own ticket, that it wasn’t Turkey but Brighton, and I wasn’t going with a father but a friend. I pressed send. And thought: maybe I can be happy without him.

04

My name is John and I’m 61 years old. I no longer live in England. Three years ago, I lost my wife, Emma, and since then I’ve stayed in the same house where we raised our children—yet suddenly, it all felt far too big and empty. My kids live in other cities with families of their own. They phone on Sundays, visit at Christmas, but most days it’s just me and the silence. After 38 years as a primary school teacher, I retired, hoping to enjoy a well-deserved rest—only to find myself lost, wasting away in front of the television, eating poorly, and neglecting myself. When my daughter Lauren visited, she nearly burst into tears: “Dad, you look like a ghost.” She was right. Six months ago, I realised I couldn’t go on like this. I started walking every morning in the nearby park with a bench under a big tree facing a pond with ducks—quiet, but never lonely, full of life. About two months ago, I noticed a woman with short white hair, big glasses, always wearing a colourful jumper, no matter the weather. We’d sit on opposite benches, just nodding at each other… until the day she asked with a smile, “Is this your bench?” I replied, “It’s not mine, but I do like to sit here.” “Well, join me—there’s room for two.” And so it began. I told her about Emma—her love of ducks and how she’d say they’re free but choose to stay because someone cares for them. With that knowing look only those who’ve suffered loss possess, she said softly: “Five years for me. My husband—cancer.” From that day, we shared a bench—sometimes talking, sometimes sharing the silence. One day, she brought coffee in a flask; another, I brought bread for the ducks, and she laughed like a child as we fed them. Her name is Helen. One day she gifted me a hand-knitted blue jumper—my favourite colour, though I’d never told her. “I watch you each day,” she smiled, “you learn to notice people.” We talked about life, loss, the present—that love isn’t replaced, but our hearts are bigger than we think. Yesterday, for the first time in three years, I invited someone into my home. I cooked a recipe from Emma—imperfect, yet real. We talked for hours, laughed, and shared in a way I’d missed. When she left, she gave me a long embrace—the kind that reminds you you’re alive. Today at the park, she waited with two books: “One’s for you—let’s read together.” I sat a bit closer. And for the first time in three years, I felt hope. I’m not sure what Helen and I are, and I’m in no rush to find out. All I know is I’m no longer afraid of tomorrow. My name is John, and a stranger in the park has given me back my desire to live again. 👉 Do you believe in second chances? 👉 Has a stranger ever become important in your life? 👉 What do you miss most when you have no one to share life with?

01

A Father’s True Son “Len, you won’t believe it! Matvey and I have decided to fly out to Turkey again next year!” My stepfather practically glowed with happiness. “He says he needs that hotel with the sea view again. What can I do? He’s my own son, after all.” It struck me how naturally he clarified—his **own** son. “I’m happy for you,” I replied, remembering how good things used to be before this Matvey appeared, “Your own son… And you always said we’re a family. That it makes no difference, whether real or not.” He did say that. That I was his daughter, and it didn’t matter if we were blood. “There you go again… Come on, Len! You’re my daughter, that’s not up for discussion! You know I love you like my own. But Matvey…” He didn’t even realise he’d just proved my point. “Matvey is a son. And I’m just an acquaintance, I suppose.” “Len, what are you on about? I keep telling you, you’re like a daughter to me!” “Like a daughter… Did you ever take me to the seaside? Not once in all those fifteen years you called yourself my dad?” He hadn’t. Arthur always insisted there was no difference between me and Matvey, but as I listened to how much he did for his son, I realised—the difference was massive. “It just never worked out, Len. You know in the old days, money was tight. You know how expensive two weeks in a five-star hotel are…” he muttered, “Costly, that.” “I understand,” I nodded, “Expense. Too pricey to take me. But Matvey, who you met six months ago, you’re already thinking about taking out a mortgage to buy him a flat, so he has somewhere to bring his wife. That’s a small thing, if it’s your son?” “I’m not buying any flat. Who told you that?” “People talk.” “Well, tell them not to spread nonsense.” A flicker of hope. “Really, you’re not?” “Of course not. Oh, and guess where we’re going on Saturday?” he didn’t wait for me to answer, “Go-karting! Back at uni, Matvey was into racing—me, I’m just tagging along.” “Go-karting,” I repeated, “Sounds exciting.” “Absolutely!” “Can I come with you?” The question slipped out before I could help it. Arthur, desperate to say no, rattled off, “Uh… Len… You’d be bored. Honestly. It’s a lads’ thing. Me and Matvey—we’ll have a father-son chat.” How it hurt… “So… interesting for you, but not for me?” “Not exactly… It’s just, you know, we missed out on a lifetime together. We want to make up for it. Just the two of us. You understand?” Oh, I understood. “You understand” had become the cruellest phrase in our new vocabulary. I was meant to understand that blood mattered more than adoption. I was meant to understand my place was now outside the gate. Matvey was perfect. Raised without a father because his mother never told Arthur about him, yet against all odds, he was good, clever, kind. “Dad, I fixed the cages at the animal shelter.” “Oh, and Dad, you know I graduated with first class honours?” “Dad, look, I fixed your phone.” Not just a son—an ideal son. Later that same day, after Arthur had stopped by before going home, I lingered over old photos… Arthur’s wedding to my mother (she died five years ago, leaving just me and Arthur). Us at the cottage… Me finishing school… Nothing would ever be the same. *** “Len, are you awake? I’ve got a question. Urgent,” my stepfather turned up at eight in the morning. “What’s so urgent?” I pushed back my fringe and started the coffee machine. “About that flat for Matvey.” “So it is true?” I breathed. “Sorry but… yes, it is.” “And you lied to me.” “I just didn’t want to upset you. But I need your advice! I’m thinking we have to move quickly—he might get married any time. Best to get him a place now, you know how I struggled at his age…” “So go for the mortgage,” I snapped, not wanting to talk about Matvey’s perfect set-up. “Yeah, yeah, I know. But you know my credit history… Matvey deserves his dad, who he never had, to help him buy a home.” “And your point?” “Will you help, if I ask?” “Depends how.” “I’ll explain. I’ve got £20,000—that’s enough for a deposit. But the bank won’t give me a loan. They’ll give you one. Your credit’s clean. We can put it in your name, I’ll handle the payments, I promise.” Any illusion that there was “no difference between you” was shattered for good. There was a difference. I wasn’t sending Matvey into the firing line. “So Matvey gets the flat, and I get stuck with the mortgage? That it?” Arthur shook his head, as if hurt by my words. As if it was my idea. “Don’t be like that! I’ll pay… I’m not asking you for money. It just needs to be in your name. Just think about it…” “You know, Arthur, I’m not wondering about the mortgage. I’m wondering how you stopped thinking of me as your daughter. You have a real son now. You’ve known him six months. Me, fifteen years—but it’s only him that matters, because he’s your own.” “That’s not true!” Arthur flared, “I love you both the same!” “No—it’s not the same.” “That’s not fair! But he’s my real…” Curtain. I was no longer his daughter. Just the convenient one; good enough until the genuine article appeared. “Fine,” I tried to be polite. “I can’t, Arthur. I’ll need a flat myself one day. And the bank won’t give me a second loan.” Arthur seemed to only just remember I had nowhere of my own. “Oh, right, you’ll need one too…” he fiddled with his watch. “But right now, until you’re ready to buy, you could help me out. I’ve got £20,000—it’s not much more. Only for a couple years.” “No. I’m not signing anything for you.” I never expected him to understand. “Alright,” he said, “If you can’t help me as a daughter… I’ll just figure something else out.” Whether he’d ever truly considered me his child didn’t matter any more. Now, Arthur was only someone I saw in old pictures. One evening as I scrolled through the feed, I saw it. A photo from the airport. Arthur and Matvey, both wearing pale jackets. Arthur’s hand resting proudly on Matvey’s shoulder. Caption: “Off to Dubai with Dad. Family is everything.” Family. I put the phone aside. Suddenly, I remembered a moment from my early childhood, long before my mum married Arthur. I was about five. We lived modestly, and my favourite doll from Granny broke. I cried, but my own father said, “Len, why are you crying over such nonsense? Don’t interrupt me!” He couldn’t be interrupted. His main interest was the bottle. I guess I never had a dad. I thought Arthur had replaced him… But a while later, Arthur tried again. “Len, I think we need to do something about this trust issue between us…” “What trust issue, Arthur? I told you: no.” “You just don’t get it. Matvey… he never knew me. He was fatherless. I have to fix that. He needs somewhere to live. And it’s not like I need anything much from you, just to have your name on the paperwork—I guarantee you won’t spend a penny.” “Who’ll make up for my missing pieces…” That annoyed him. “Len, enough! I don’t want an argument! I love you, really! But you have to understand… Matvey is my real family. When you have kids, you’ll see. Look, I love you both—just differently. Doesn’t mean I don’t need you.” “You need me—as a resource.” “Len, come on! You’re overreacting.” “You switched to him within six months, Arthur,” I said. “I’m not asking you to choose. The choice is obvious. Matvey is your real one. I never was.” Six months passed. Arthur never called. Not once. Once again scrolling through my news feed, I saw another photo. Arthur and Matvey, this time in the mountains. Arthur in fancy ski gear. The caption: “Teaching Dad to snowboard! He might be a bit old for this, but with your son, anything’s possible.” I stared at the photo for a long time. I reached for my laptop to finish a report when my phone buzzed. Unknown number. “Hi, Lena. It’s Matvey. Dad gave me your number but he can’t call. He wanted me to tell you: he sorted the flat without you, but he’s worried about you. And he hopes you’ll come see us over the bank holiday. He can’t explain, but he really wants you there.” I wrote a reply and rewrote it, over and over. “Hi Matvey. Tell Arthur I’m very glad he’s doing well. I’m thinking of him too. But I’m not coming. I’ve got my own plans for the bank holiday. I’m off to the seaside.” I didn’t say I bought my own ticket, that it wasn’t Turkey but Brighton, and I wasn’t going with a father but a friend. I pressed send. And thought: maybe I can be happy without him.

02

To Cheat on Someone While Sharing the Same Roof Is Utter Madness: You Share a Bed, a Bathroom Sink, a Dinner Table—Yet Still Find Time to Slip into Someone Else’s Messages or Arms, Only to Return to Sheets That Still Carry the Scent of the Person Who Trusts You Most. This Isn’t Just Betrayal… It’s Calculated Disrespect. You Look Her in the Eyes Each Morning, Kiss Her Goodnight, Nod as She Shares Her Worries—All While Hiding a Secret That Could Shatter Her Sense of Security. It’s a Unique Kind of Cruelty. She Believes Your Home Together Is a Haven, While You Turn It into the Stage for the Greatest Lie She’ll Ever Live Through. Cheating Alone Is a Knife in the Heart, but to Do It While Eating the Food She Cooks, Watching the Shows She Recommends, Leaving Your Shoes by the Door She Locks Every Night—That’s a Whole New Level of Coldness. It’s Not a ‘Slip’ in a Weak Moment—You’re Making a Conscious Choice Every Day to Dishonour the Person Who Shares Their Life with You. The Mental Gymnastics Required to Conceal It: Constantly Flipping Your Phone, Taking Sudden Showers, Unexplained Outings, Late-Night Scrolling in the Bathroom—The Lies Are Endless and Exhausting. Yet You Still Expect Her Warmth When You Walk Through the Door. That’s Delusion. The Damage Is Deep: Every Couch Conversation, Every Inside Joke, Every Quiet Sunday Morning Gets Rewritten in Her Mind Once She Knows the Truth. She’ll Start Doubting Her Own Intuition, Replaying Every Little Moment, Wondering How She Missed the Signs. That Self-Doubt Is the True Scar Infidelity Leaves Behind. If You’re Unhappy, Be Honest. If You’re Tempted, Step Back. But Don’t Steal Her Inner Peace While Sleeping Beside Her. Love Should Feel Like Sanctuary—Not Russian Roulette. If You Can Betray the Person Who Lets You Breathe in Their Space Every Night Without a Flicker of Guilt, You’re Not in Love—You’re Just Using Closeness to Make Your Selfishness Comfortable. Remember This: Trust Is Not a Renewable Resource. Once You Burn It Inside the Four Walls Built to Protect Two Hearts, There’s No Way Back to the Same Home. Only Ruins Remain Where a Partnership Once Lived.

05

📌 Useful Social Services & Contacts in the U.S.

Stay informed and get help when you need it. Below are key national services with direct contacts that may support you or your loved ones:
🏥 Health & Mental Support

SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

What they do: Free and confidential help with substance use and mental health disorders.

Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – 24/7, anonymous support

Website: samhsa.gov

🧒 Support for Children & Families

WIC – Women, Infants, and Children Program

What they do: Nutritional and healthcare support for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.

Federal Info Line: 1-800-522-5006

Find local WIC office: fns.usda.gov/wic

Olga Had Spent All Day Preparing for New Year’s Eve: Cleaning, Cooking, Setting the Table—Her First New Year Away from Her Parents, Celebrating with the Man She Loved. She’d Been Living for Three Months with Tony in His Flat—He Was 15 Years Older, Divorced, Paid Child Support, Enjoyed a Drink Now and Then, and Had No Money (Except for Himself)—But None of That Mattered When You’re in Love. Why Olga Fell for Him, No One Could Understand: He Was No Looker, Had a Rotten Temper, Miserly to the Core, and Penniless—Yet Her Heart Belonged to This Odd Duck. All Three Months, Olga Hoped Tony Would Notice How Caring and Domestic She Was and Finally Want to Marry Her. He Always Said, “Let’s Live Together First, See What Kind of Homemaker You Are—You Might Be Just Like My Ex!” Olga Only Knew He’d Never Say a Word About His Ex, So She Tried Her Hardest: Never Complained When He Came Home Drunk, Did All the Housework, Bought the Groceries with Her Own Money (Just in Case He Thought She Was After His), Even Covered the New Year’s Feast Herself—and Bought Him a New Phone as a Gift. While Olga Got Ready for the Party, Tony Was “Prepping” in His Own Way—Drinking with Friends, Then Strolling Home Merry to Announce Guests for New Year’s: His Mates, Strangers to Her. Olga Set the Table, One Hour to Midnight. Her Mood Ruined, She Bit Her Tongue—She Wasn’t Going to Be Like His Ex. Half an Hour to Midnight, a Drunk Crowd Burst In. Tony Brightened Up, Seated Everyone, the Boozing Continued. Tony Didn’t Even Introduce Olga—No One Noticed Her, They Just Ate Her Food and Laughed Among Themselves. When Olga Announced It Was Nearly Midnight and Suggested Champagne, They Looked at Her Like an Uninvited Guest. “Who’s That Then?” Slurred a Woman. “Just the Bedside Neighbour,” Tony Joked—And Everyone Laughed at Olga. Tony Didn’t Defend Her, He Laughed Along; Stuffed His Face with Food She Bought and Cooked, and Let His Friends Mock Her. Quietly, Olga Packed Her Things and Went Home to Her Parents—The Worst New Year She’d Ever Had. Mum Said, “I Told You So”; Dad Looked Relieved; Olga Finally Took Off Her Rose-Tinted Glasses. A Week Later, When Tony’s Money Ran Out, He Turned Up Like Nothing Happened: “So Why’d You Leave Then? Got the Hump?”—Seeing She Wasn’t Taking Him Back, He Got Nasty: “Oh Well, Nice One—You’re Lazing at Mum and Dad’s While My Fridge Is Empty! You’re Acting Just Like My Ex!” Olga Was Speechless. She’d Rehearsed What She’d Say, But Now Could Only Slam the Door and Tell Him Off. And So, From New Year’s, Olga’s New Life Began.