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This Isn’t Up for Debate: When My Husband Announced His Daughter Nina Was Moving In, I Reminded Him That the Newly Renovated Room Was Meant for Our Future Child—Not His Twelve-Year-Old, Spoiled, and Manipulative Daughter Who’s Set on Turning Our Blended Family Into a Battlefield

Thats not up for discussion. Emilys coming to live with us thats not up for discussion, I said, carefully

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Now You’ll Have Your Own Child—So It’s Time for Her to Go Back to the Orphanage

Now youll have your own childtime to send her back to the orphanage. When will my son finally get himself an heir?

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My Sister-in-Law Moved in Uninvited, So I Took Her Belongings and Put Them in the Hallway

Megan turned up at my flat without asking, and I shoved her suitcase into the hallway. Whose leopardprint

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My Husband’s Parents Have Decided to Move in With Us in Their Old Age, Without Asking for My Opinion

My husbands parents decided, without consulting me, to move in with us in their old age. James, are you

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What If She’s Not My Daughter? The DNA Test That Shattered Our Marriage Nikita couldn’t shake the thought that his baby girl might not be his own as he watched his wife, Olivia, fuss lovingly over their newborn. The seeds of doubt were sown during a work trip he took last year—just a month away, but the timing of Olivia’s pregnancy announcement left a question hanging in the air. Inspired by Olivia’s sister, who once took a DNA test to ease her own husband’s doubts, Nikita suggested the same, hoping for reassurance. Olivia exploded—cushions flew, neighbours complained, and suspicions deepened. “It’s not a big deal,” Nikita insisted, but Olivia wasn’t having any of it. Later, confiding in his mother, Anna, Nikita learned of a mysterious visit to Olivia’s home during his absence—disheveled looks, strange men’s shoes, and a shaky story about a burst pipe. Anna advised him to get the test by any means. Without Olivia’s knowledge, Nikita did just that. The result: Aria was his daughter. He thought the matter settled—for him, at least—but Olivia was devastated by his breach of trust. The next evening, Nikita returned home to an empty flat and a note: “Your suspicion destroyed us. I want nothing from you, only to disappear from our lives.” Stunned, Nikita called his wife in a rage, only to be answered by another man (her brother, though he didn’t realise it). Now certain of betrayal, he stormed off—never once considering he could be wrong. Their divorce was swift and final. Little Aria stayed with her mum, never to see her father again…

What if shes not my daughter? We need a DNA test Ben stared pensively as his wife, Alice, gently fussed

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Received a Packed Suitcase from My Wife Filled with Everything I Need

Dear Diary, I received a packed suitcase from my wife today all her belongings neatly folded. Dont talk nonsense!

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A New Family Means More Than the Old One

Mum, meet Emily, my fiancée, I declared as soon as I stepped through the door, gently holding my girlfriend

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She Couldn’t Wait Any Longer “I’m filing for divorce,” Vera calmly announced as she handed her husband a mug of tea. “Actually, I already have.” She said it so matter-of-factly, as if discussing the weather or what would be for dinner. “May I ask what the… Hm, never mind, not in front of the kids,” Arthur lowered his voice when he noticed their two worried faces. “What did I do wrong? And let’s not forget, children need their father.” “You think I can’t find them another one?” Vera rolled her eyes. “What did you do wrong? Everything! I hoped life with you would be like a quiet lake, but it’s more like a raging river!” “Right, boys, have you finished eating?” Arthur didn’t want to continue this in front of the children. “Go play. And no eavesdropping!” he called after them, knowing how nosy his sons were. “Now, where were we?” Vera pursed her lips. Even now, he’s trying to take charge. Father of the year, of course… “I’m tired of living like this. I don’t want to spend eight hours a day at work, smiling at colleagues, grovelling to clients… I want to sleep till noon, shop in expensive stores, spend afternoons at beauty salons. But you can’t give me that. So enough! I gave you the best ten years of my life…” “Can we skip the dramatics?” Arthur interrupted dryly. “Weren’t you the one who did everything possible to marry me those ten years ago? I wasn’t exactly desperate to wed.” “Mistakes happen.” The divorce was quick and quiet. Arthur reluctantly agreed to leave the boys with their mum, as long as they spent every weekend and all holidays with him. Vera easily agreed. Six months later, Arthur introduced the boys to his new wife. Smiling, high-spirited Lucy won their affection instantly, and the boys started looking forward to weekends with their father—much to their mother’s annoyance. She was even more annoyed when Arthur inherited a fortune from a distant uncle, bought a large house in the countryside, and seemed to be living his best life. He kept his job, paid only modest child support, preferred to personally provide for the boys himself, got them every gadget imaginable, and—worst of all—supervised every financial detail! If only Vera had waited six more months! If only she’d known… She’d have made very different choices. But maybe not all was lost… *** “Fancy a cuppa? Like old times?” Vera asked flirtatiously, twirling a lock of hair around her finger. Her short dress showed off her best features, and her perfect makeup made her look years younger. She had worked hard to look absolutely irresistible. “I’m busy,” Arthur replied coolly, barely glancing at his ex-wife. “Are the boys ready?” “They can’t find something, will be another ten minutes or so,” Vera replied, disappointed but undeterred. “Maybe we could spend New Year’s Eve together? The boys spent half the day decorating the tree.” “We already agreed the holidays are mine. We’ll be celebrating in a charming little village—lots of snow, skiing, snowboarding. Lucy’s arranged everything.” “But it’s a family holiday…” “That’s exactly why I’ll spend it with my family. Argue, and I’ll fight for full custody.” The door barely closed behind Arthur and the happy children before Vera, furious, smashed the wedding china. Lucy again! Why does she always interfere, pretending to adore the boys? Surely she’s simply counting the days until they go back home. After all, Vera knew how demanding her sons could be. But maybe… Just maybe… the situation could still be salvaged and Arthur’s fortune would end up in her hands. *** “What’s all this?” Arthur asked, eyeing the suitcases on his doorstep. “What do you think? Clothes. For Colin and Harry,” Vera nudged a bulging suitcase. “Since you’ve got your perfect new life, it’s my turn. Not many men will accept another man’s kids, so now the boys are yours. I’ve already spoken to Social Services, just need to sign the paperwork. That’s on you. I’m off on holiday with someone very promising.” She left Arthur standing stunned in the doorway as she sauntered towards her waiting taxi. Let’s see how long “Saint Lucy” lasts—one week, maybe two? Arthur’ll have to pick between his boys and his new wife, and he’ll definitely pick the boys. And then come running back to her—with the money in tow. A fortnight passed. A month. Two. But there was no desperate call to collect the kids. Lucy never so much as raised her voice, judging by reports from the boys. Had her mischievous devils become angels? Impossible! “How are the boys? Not worn out yet?” Vera rang, unable to resist. “They’re absolutely brilliant. Obedient, helpful—angels,” Arthur replied warmly. “Just golden.” “Really?” Vera replied, bewildered. “They were little terrors with me…” “You have to engage with kids,” Arthur sniffed. “But you were always glued to your phone. By the way, we’re moving soon. I’ll bring the boys for the holidays if you like.” “But… they’re my children too!” “You signed away your rights, remember?” Arthur laughed. “Some mother you are.” Vera was left with nothing but regret. No husband (or, more importantly, his fortune), no new boyfriend, and her children far away. Not that she missed them much—she quite enjoyed having all her time to herself. Ten years of patience, quitting six months before cashing in… So unfair…

She Couldnt Wait “I’m filing for a divorce,” Julia remarked in an unusually calm voice

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Default Breakup “All will be well,” Vova whispered softly, trying to sound confident. He took a deep breath, exhaled, and pressed the doorbell. The evening promised to be a challenge—but how could it be otherwise? Meeting the parents is never easy… The door opened almost immediately. On the threshold stood Mrs. Alice Peterson. She looked impeccable—her hair styled perfectly, her tailored dress neat, and her makeup subtly applied. Her gaze flicked past Lara, paused briefly on the basket of biscuits, her lips tightening for just a moment—so subtle it was almost missed, but Lara caught it. “Come in,” Mrs. Peterson said, her voice cordial but not particularly warm, stepping aside for them to enter. Vova stepped inside, studiously avoiding his mother’s eyes, while Lara followed, careful as she crossed the threshold. The flat greeted them with soft lighting and the mild scent of sandalwood. The place was cosy, yet deliberately flawless—every book perfectly shelved, no scarf flung aside, every detail a testament to order and control. Mrs. Peterson led them into the lounge—a spacious room with a large window veiled by cream curtains. In the centre was a massive sofa upholstered in expensive fabric, beside it a low, dark-wood coffee table. With a gesture she indicated they sit. “Tea? Coffee?” she asked, still not meeting Lara’s eyes. Her voice sounded businesslike, as though fulfilling an obligation, rather than trying to make them feel at home. “I’d love some tea, thank you,” Lara replied politely, striving for a calm, friendly tone. She placed her basket on the table, delicately untied the ribbon and lifted the lid. The aroma of fresh biscuits quickly filled the room. “I brought some biscuits—homemade, if you’d like to try…” Mrs. Peterson paused a moment on the basket, then nodded. “Very nice,” she said, heading towards the kitchen. “I’ll bring the tea out.” As soon as she left, Vova leaned toward Lara and whispered, “Sorry. She’s always just… reserved.” “It’s all right,” Lara smiled, squeezing his hand. “I get it. What matters is you’re with me.” With Mrs. Peterson out of the room, a gentle hush settled over them. Lara glanced around—the flat was immaculate and high-end, but felt oddly cold and unwelcoming, more like a show home than somewhere people truly lived. Soon Mrs. Peterson returned, balancing a tray with delicate porcelain cups adorned in floral patterns, a silver teapot, and a small plate with the biscuits neatly arranged. She set it on the coffee table, poured the tea at a measured pace, and settled into the armchair opposite, folding her hands gracefully in her lap. “So, Lara,” she said, scrutinising her with an appraising gaze that took in her hair, her expression, even the way she held her cup. “Vova mentioned you’re studying—childcare, is it?” “Yes, I’m in my third year,” Lara nodded, keeping her hands steady as she set the cup down. “I really do enjoy working with children. Helping them grow and learn—it feels meaningful.” “With children,” Mrs. Peterson repeated with the faintest trace of irony, raising an eyebrow. “That’s certainly noble. But are you aware how little nursery workers earn? Nowadays one must think about the future—about security.” Vova bristled. “Mum, seriously, must you start with the money? Lara loves what she does, and that’s important. Things will work out. We’ll support each other—surely that matters more.” Mrs. Peterson turned her head to her son, but didn’t respond straight away. Instead she sipped her tea, as though weighing her words. “Being passionate about your work is wonderful,” she said finally, once more addressing Lara. “But sometimes passion just isn’t enough. Have you thought about what you’ll do after you qualify? Any plans for the next few years?” Lara inhaled deeply, choosing her words with care. She knew this was more than polite questioning—it was a test. “Yes, of course,” she replied evenly. “I want to work in a nursery at first, gain experience. Later, I hope to take extra training—I’d love to specialise in helping children with additional needs. It’s challenging, but I really feel it’s my calling.” Mrs. Peterson nodded silently, her gaze unreadable, taking a moment before replying. She continued watching Lara as though trying to decipher her true intentions. “I don’t intend to live off Vova,” Lara added, her resolve growing. “I want to work, to grow, and be independent. I believe a strong relationship means both partners contribute—not just financially. Doing what I love matters to me.” “Interesting outlook,” Mrs. Peterson remarked, tilting her head. “But have you considered something more lucrative? With your abilities, you’d do well in sales, or marketing. Higher pay than childcare, you know.” Vova started to object, but Lara stopped him with a look. She sensed this was her battle to fight. “And what is it you do, Mrs. Peterson?” she found herself asking, holding her gaze levelly. The question slipped out, firm and unflinching, surprising Lara with her own confidence. Mrs. Peterson hesitated, caught off guard for a split second, but soon regained composure. “I… I don’t work,” she admitted. “My husband provides for us. I keep the household running, support him with organisational matters, keep things in order. It’s work too, even if not paid work.” “I understand,” Lara nodded, her conviction solidifying. “So if you’ve chosen not to work, why would you insist I must take a higher-paid job? Why should I give up what brings me joy simply for money? I’m not expecting Vova to support me!” An uncomfortable silence stretched. Mrs. Peterson stared at Lara as though seeing her anew. “My husband offered that life,” Mrs. Peterson replied at last. “He could provide for us. But Vova…” Vova shifted awkwardly, feeling tension twisting inside. He glanced at his mother, her face unreadable, then at Lara—upright, proud, though bewilderment flickered in her eyes. “Lara, you do understand…” he began, faltering, his words coming out hushed, “Mum just worries about us. Wants us to avoid hardships.” Lara looked at him, surprised by his sudden change of tone—he’d just defended her, now he seemed to falter. Disappointment pricked at her—if ever she needed him at her side, it was now. “So you agree with her?” she asked, striving for a level voice. “You think I shouldn’t do what I love? That I should only take a job for the paycheque?” “That’s not what I’m saying…” Vova wavered, twisting his fingers. “But Mum’s right—stability is important. We can’t just live for today… We must think ahead, about practicalities.” At last Mrs. Peterson favoured her son with a brief, approving glance—just enough for Vova to know he’d said what she wanted to hear. She then turned to Lara, her tone gentler but just as insistent: “Tell me, Lara, do you really think my son should abandon his dreams? He’s always wanted to be a journalist, to travel and write… It’s not just a job for him—it’s a passion. Must he give it up now, to provide for a family all alone?” Lara opened her mouth, but Vova interrupted: “Mum, I—” “No, Vova, be honest,” Mrs. Peterson snapped, eyes fixed on him. “Are you truly ready to throw away your dreams for this girl? To give up travel, reporting, the things you’ve always loved?” Vova was silent. He looked at Lara. Hurt flashed in her eyes, but she was silent, letting him find his own answer. He felt torn in two—part of him wanted to defend Lara, to believe they could make it work; another part feared his mother’s warnings. “I…” he faltered. “I don’t want to give up on my dreams. But I don’t want to lose Lara either. I believe we can find balance. I can still write, maybe not as often, but… and Lara will be there for me, as I will for her.” Mrs. Peterson shook her head but said no more. She sank back, as though she’d said her piece and was now waiting to see what would happen next. “How fascinating,” Lara said, unable to keep the slight, bitter smile from her lips. “So Vova can’t give up his dream, but I’m supposed to give up mine? I’m to chase money, while he chases his passion? Isn’t that a bit… odd?” Vova dropped his gaze, nervously rattling his teacup, his mind spinning. “Well… maybe we’ll have to compromise…” he muttered. “Compromise?” his mother echoed, and now there was iron in her voice. “You know it’s impossible. Either you give your all, or you don’t.” Vova wanted to argue, to say that times had changed, that people do balance work and life—but the words stuck. His mother’s stare still made him feel like a scolded schoolboy. “I think that’s enough for today,” Mrs. Peterson announced, rising with the same unhurried grace. “It’s getting dark, and our area’s not the safest. Better that you head home, Lara. Vova, we need to talk—now.” It was a statement, not a suggestion. Vova tried to object, “Mum, maybe I should walk Lara out—at least to the bus stop—” “Don’t even think about it!” she barked without looking back. “I’d worry. Stay.” He slumped, understanding resistance was useless. When his mum decided, it was final. “Sorry, Lara,” he muttered. “It’s probably best. Call a cab, okay?” Lara nodded, saying nothing more. She put down her cup, picked up her bag, and stood. “Thank you for the tea,” she said, a chill edge to her voice now. No more pretending or trying to please—a formality, nothing more. “Goodbye,” Mrs. Peterson said shortly, her gaze already averted. Lara walked to the door. She moved calmly, not rushing, even as her heart pounded. At the threshold she glanced back—Vova still sat, head bowed, not meeting her eye, making no move to stop her. She stepped out, and breathed in the cool evening air. It washed away some of the tension but not the swirl of emotions—hurt, anger, disappointment—all tangled tightly inside. Now it was clear: Vova would always choose his mother, even if that meant choosing against her. Lara set off down the road, slow at first, then faster, as her thoughts chased after her. “He didn’t even try to defend me. For him, it’s more important to please her than support me.” She found her fists clenched, her lips pressed tight against tears. She reached her flat at dusk. The street was empty, lamplight glimmering on the wet pavement. She let herself in, locked up, sat heavily on the hallway stool. Silence wrapped around her; here, she no longer had to smile, no longer had to fight. She sat, staring into space, until the storm inside finally ebbed. This wasn’t the end of the world, she realised. Only the end of a story that maybe never should have started. She took a deep breath. Tomorrow was another day—and she’d be ready for it. ***** The next day, Lara ignored Vova’s calls. She needed time—time to figure out what she wanted. Even if they stayed together, she saw it now: she’d always be competing with his mother, while Vova would forever be torn between them. Every decision, every conversation would hinge on Mrs. Peterson’s opinion. The very thought made her weary. Days passed in a blur of classes and tasks, all done on autopilot. She tried not to think of Vova, but her mind returned again and again to that silent evening, to the way he hadn’t stood up for her. A few days later, returning home, she saw a familiar figure outside her building. “Lara!” She turned. Vova waited by the door, hands thrust deep into his pockets, looking sheepish, his former confidence gone. “We need to talk,” he said, staring at the pavement. “Mum’s explained her view… She thinks you’re not right for me.” Lara’s insides twisted. Still, she kept her voice even. “And what do you think?” He hesitated, eyes dropping, shuffling awkwardly. “Well… she’s my mother,” he said at last, shrugging faintly. “She’s just worried. I don’t want to upset her.” There was no firmness to it, no conviction. It wasn’t an explanation, just an excuse. “So you agree with her?” Lara asked, although she already knew. “I’m not saying that,” he said hurriedly. “But she’s my family. I can’t just turn away from her.” He fell silent again, waiting for Lara to rescue him, to come up with a solution. This time, she stayed quiet. Her thoughts tumbled: “What if this never changes? Will every decision always come down to his mum’s opinion? Will I always come second?” “Do you want to be with me?” Lara asked, looking him straight in the eye. Again, hesitation—a pause, a sigh, a dropped shoulder. No answer came; just silence. Lara nodded to herself. Without another word, she turned and walked away, leaving Vova standing on the kerb. He watched her go, unable to call her back. That evening, Lara went for a walk. The street was quiet, lamplight shining in the autumn air. She paced without destination, just letting herself move. Suddenly, she laughed—a sudden, freeing laugh, light and genuine. She stopped, gazing at the distant city lights, and realised: Even if there are more struggles ahead, she’s ready. She has nothing more to prove, nothing to apologise for. She’s free. And that, she knew now, was what mattered.

Default Breakup Itll be all right, Tom murmurs, trying to keep his voice steady. He takes a deep breath

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There Will Be No Forgiveness “Have you ever thought about finding your mother?” The question caught Vicky so off guard that she involuntarily flinched. She was in the middle of sorting through documents she’d brought home from work, carefully steadying the wobbly stack on the kitchen table with her palm. Now, her hands froze midair, her gaze slowly lifting to Alex. Genuine astonishment flashed in her eyes—where on earth had he gotten such an idea? Why would she ever want to track down the woman who had callously derailed the course of her life? “Of course not,” Vicky replied, keeping her voice steady. “What a ridiculous idea. Why would I ever do that?” Alex looked briefly embarrassed, running a hand through his hair as if collecting his thoughts. His crooked smile seemed to say he’d already started to regret the question. “I just… well, I’ve heard that children in foster care often dream of finding their birth parents. So I thought… If you ever wanted to, I’d help. Really.” Vicky shook her head, her chest suddenly tight as if an invisible hand squeezed her ribs. She drew a steadying breath, willing away the rising irritation, then looked him in the eye once more. “Thank you for offering, but don’t bother,” she said, her voice a shade louder than before. “I won’t look for her. That woman stopped being my mother a long time ago. I will never forgive her!” Yes, it sounded harsh. But there was no other way. Otherwise she would be forced to dredge up ugly memories, pouring her heart out in front of the man she loved. And some things you never want to share, even with those closest to you. So she reached for the stack of documents again, feigning intense busyness. Alex frowned, but didn’t push further. It was clear her blunt answer unsettled him. Deep down, he simply couldn’t grasp her position. To him, a mother was something almost sacred—regardless of her involvement, the woman who carried a child for nine months and gave birth was worthy of reverence. He honestly believed there was a special, unbreakable bond between mother and child, impervious to time or circumstance. But Vicky not only dismissed this notion—she utterly rejected it, without a shadow of doubt. For her, it was all clear cut: how could someone long to see the person who had once shown such terrifying lack of care? Her so-called “mum” hadn’t just sent her to care; the details were darker. They cut deeper. Years ago, as a teenager, Vicky had finally worked up the courage to ask what she’d long wanted to know. She went to see Mrs Wilkinson, the head of the home—a strict but fair woman, universally respected by the children. “Why am I here?” Vicky asked softly but firmly. “Did my mum die? Or was she stripped of her parental rights? Something serious must have happened, right?” Mrs Wilkinson paused, putting aside the paperwork on her desk. She sat for a moment in silence, weighing her answer, then sighed and nodded to the chair. Vicky sat, fingers clenched tightly to the edge, anxiety churning within. She sensed she was about to learn something that would forever reshape her view of the past. “She was stripped of her rights, and faced criminal charges,” Mrs Wilkinson began carefully, watching Vicky with concern. She would spare no euphemism—a twelve-year-old deserved the truth, however much it might hurt. Better a harsh truth than gentle ignorance. She paused, collected herself, then continued, “You were brought to us aged four and a half, reported by someone who spotted a small, lost girl walking alone. It turned out a woman had left you on a railway station bench and boarded a train. It was autumn, damp and cold. You wore just a thin coat and wellies. Several hours outside meant a long hospital stay. You were very ill, it took ages to recover.” Vicky sat unmoving, almost petrified. Her knuckles whitened, but her face was expressionless—only her eyes seemed darker, stormy. She listened, taking in every word, even as a hurricane tore at her inside. “Did they find her? And what did she say for herself?” Vicky managed, voice barely above a whisper. “They did. She was found and tried. Her excuse?” Mrs Wilkinson gave a bitter half-smile. “She didn’t have money, apparently found a job, and her employer wouldn’t allow children at the site—you were in the way. So she left you and started over, free of ‘burdens.'” Vicky’s fists slowly unclenched as her hands dropped to her knees. She stared ahead, as if seeing nothing, mind drifting to that forgotten October morning. “I see,” she said in an empty, even voice, then looked Mrs Wilkinson in the eye. “Thank you for being honest.” That moment Vicky vowed, with finality, never to seek her mother. Not ever. The passing curiosity to see the woman’s face and ask “why?” was gone forever. To leave a child on the street—how was it possible? Did the woman who gave her life lack even a hint of compassion? Anything could have happened to a child alone on a rainy English street! “That’s not the act of a person; it’s the act of a beast!” Vicky silently screamed, her heart pierced anew by sharp, splintered pain. She tried to find excuses—perhaps her mother was desperate, with no other way? Perhaps thinking it was better for Vicky? But each rationalisation crashed against the hard reality: Why not surrender her officially? Why leave a four-year-old on a cold station platform? No explanation softened the pain or made the betrayal less deliberate. It was a choice—cold and calculated—to be rid of a child like she was an unwanted object. With every sweep of these thoughts Vicky’s resolve solidified. No. She would never go searching, never forgive, never even try to understand. No understanding could ever unmake what was done. Forgiveness was simply beyond her. And with that certainty, she felt a strange, almost physical sense of freedom… ******************** “I’ve got a surprise for you!” Alex practically glowed with excitement, fidgeting in the hallway like a child about to unwrap a present. “You’re going to love it! Come on, we mustn’t keep people waiting!” Vicky paused at her bedroom door with a mug of cooling tea. She studied him, puzzled, before setting her cup aside. What was this surprise? And why, despite his cheerful tone, did she feel a chill of foreboding tighten inside? “Where are we going?” she asked, disguising unease with forced calm. “You’ll see soon!” Alex grinned wider, leading her eagerly outside. “Trust me—it’s worth it.” Vicky followed, anxiety churning beneath her skin. She slipped on her coat and shoes and stepped out with him. All the way to the park she tried to guess: tickets for a concert? Meeting old friends? Her thoughts raced, but nothing fit. In the park, Vicky immediately noticed a woman perched on a bench by the path. She was plainly but neatly dressed—a dark coat, scarf, and a small handbag on her knees. There was something familiar about her face, but Vicky struggled to recall where she’d seen the woman before. Perhaps a distant relative of Alex’s? A family friend? Alex led her straight to the bench. The woman looked up and smiled gently. In that instant, something within Vicky jolted—she knew exactly where she’d seen that face. In the mirror, if you added thirty or forty years. “Vicky,” Alex announced with ceremony, as though making a grand declaration, “I’m so pleased to say: after a long search, I’ve found your mum. Aren’t you happy?” Vicky stood frozen—her world stilled. How could he? She’d made it perfectly clear she never wanted to see this woman. “Darling! You’ve grown up into such a beautiful woman!” the lady cried, sweeping forward for a hug. Tears sparkled in her eyes, her arms wide in a hopeful embrace. Vicky recoiled, her expression turning icy. “It’s me—your mum!” the woman pressed on, as if willing herself not to see the wall before her. “I looked for you for so long! I never stopped thinking about you, worrying…” “Yes, it wasn’t easy!” Alex jumped in, beaming. “I had to ask friends, make so many calls, search all sorts of contacts… But I’m glad it worked out!” A sharp, stinging slap broke his words. Vicky’s hand flew instantly, tears of grief and fury in her eyes. She stared at Alex with utter disbelief: how could he? How could he betray her trust so deeply? “What are you doing?” Alex gasped, clutching his cheek, stunned. “I did this for you! I wanted to help—” Vicky was silent, literally unable to speak as outrage and pain boiled inside. It felt as if Alex—her own fiancé—had ripped away her foundation, breaking the one rule that mattered most: do not touch the past she’d worked so hard to bury. The woman hovered between them, lost for words, glancing between her daughter’s icy face and Alex’s shock. “I never asked you to find her,” Vicky managed at last, voice trembling but flat. “I made it very clear I didn’t want this. And you did it anyway!” Alex lowered his hand but was speechless. He searched her expression for the faintest sign she might relent, but found only bitter determination. “I was clear: I don’t even want to hear about that woman!” Vicky’s voice shook with rage, old wounds torn wide. “That ‘mother’ left me on a railway platform at four—alone—among strangers, in just a thin coat! You think I should forgive that?” Alex went pale, but stood his ground, drawing himself up: “She’s your mother! No matter what, she’s still your mum!” The woman, edge of the group, stepped forward at last, voice small and tentative. “You were ill a lot, I couldn’t afford medicine,” she began. “That job was a chance to fix things. I’d have come for you—once things were better, we could be together again…” Vicky spun to face her, her eyes sharp as glass. “Come for me from where—the cemetery?” Her voice was harsh now, but she couldn’t hold back. “You could have called social services, filled in the right forms, left me safely in hospital—but not abandoned me in the cold! Not alone!” Alex, desperate to end the rising confrontation, tried to reach for her hand. Vicky snatched it away. “The past is the past, let’s live in the present,” he pleaded. “You always said you longed for family at our wedding—well, now you’ll have it…” Vicky’s look was so raw with disappointment Alex backed away. “I’ve already invited Mrs Wilkinson from the children’s home, and Miss Evans, my care worker,” she told him, her voice quieter but unwavering. “They are my real mothers. They were there when I needed someone. They taught me, supported me, cared for me. They are my family.” Wrenching her arm out of Alex’s grip, Vicky turned and fled the park. Her feet carried her far as the storm inside made it hard to breathe. This betrayal—she could never have seen it coming. She had hidden nothing from him—shared the ugly truths of her childhood without gloss, told him about those long days in care when she still hoped her mother would return. He had listened, nodded, claimed to understand. And yet, he’d hunted her mother down and brought her here. “She’s your mother, and that’s that”—his words echoed, bringing fresh waves of bitterness. “Never,” Vicky decided fiercely. She would never let that woman back in her life. Never pretend nothing had happened. She walked from the park, barely noticing her surroundings, her mother’s face haunting every step. Vicky clenched her fists, willing the memory away—needing only to get far, far away from it all. She didn’t go back to Alex’s for her things; luckily, most were packed at her tiny council flat. No return needed, not while each thought of him burned anew. Her phone wouldn’t stop—Alex called again and again, then left angry voice messages: “You’re acting like a child! I did my best for you, and now you’re being ungrateful—” The next was sharper still: “It’s settled. Lyn will be at the wedding. That’s final. Our kids will call her Gran. Deal with it.” Vicky listened at the bus stop, every word tightening the ache in her chest. She powered her phone off, dropped it in her pocket, eyes on the overcast sky. Her world had just cracked wide open—and she had no idea how to mend it. Eventually, she typed a message: “The wedding’s cancelled. I don’t want to see you or that woman ever again.” Send. She watched the tick mark confirm delivery, then set the phone aside. The screen flashed with Alex’s name—she didn’t move. More messages came, unread. She pulled up his number, blocked him, and finally let herself soak in the silence. No more calls, no more notifications. Only the rare feeling of peace, like a warm blanket. Maybe she’d regret this decision later. Maybe. But right now, it was the only choice that felt right. The storm inside her settled slowly, replaced by calm certainty. It was the right thing to do. She could never have a future with someone who’d betray her like that…

There Will Be No Forgiveness Have you ever thought about looking for your mother? The question came so