The Old House – A New Life

Matthew didn’t want to move to a remote village, but his wife, Olivia, believed it would be the best solution for his health. When doctors diagnosed the businessman with a serious illness requiring urgent treatment, he hoped for his wife’s support. However, Olivia was skeptical of doctors and insisted they were only after money.

— Darling, you need fresh air, peace, and nature. In the countryside, you’ll feel much better, — she gently insisted.

Matthew knew that his illness was not just fatigue. At 29, he had a successful business and a comfortable life, but the disease became a serious challenge. Despite his doubts, he gave in to Olivia, packed his things, and left for the house she had bought in the English countryside. His wife promised to visit him, but soon it became clear that those were just empty words.

Upon arrival, Matthew found a neglected house with an overgrown yard and a complete lack of amenities. The fridge was empty, and there was no sign of Olivia. Disappointment and loneliness settled in his heart until one day, a little girl appeared at his doorstep with a basket of pastries.

— My granny sent me to you. We baked some pies with potatoes and cabbage, and here’s some milk and cottage cheese for you. Granny says it’s not right to leave a neighbor without food, — the girl cheerfully said.

This was the beginning of Matthew’s acquaintance with kind-hearted Granny Eleanor, who, despite her poor eyesight, helped people with her knowledge of herbal medicine. Matthew felt increasing gratitude toward her and little Emily – Eleanor’s granddaughter. Their care helped him not to lose hope and gradually regain his strength.

Olivia appeared only a few weeks later. She brought him some pills, claiming they would help, but after taking them, Matthew’s condition deteriorated significantly. Fortunately, thanks to Granny Eleanor’s care, disaster was avoided. Following her advice, the medicine was sent for testing, and it turned out that it could have seriously harmed his health. That was the last straw – Matthew realized that his wife wanted to get rid of him.

Soon after, Olivia and her lover attempted to withdraw his money but were caught trying to present forged documents at the bank. Matthew returned to the city, divorced his wife, and decided to start anew. He invested in the countryside and established a wellness retreat for people who had lost hope of recovery. The center used Granny Eleanor’s traditional healing methods that once saved him.

One day, a new nurse named Anna applied for a job at the center. She was a single mother raising her son alone. Warm feelings quickly blossomed between them, and soon they became a family. Joy once again filled Matthew’s home.

A few years later, one evening at a restaurant where Matthew had come with his family to celebrate an anniversary, he saw Olivia. She was now working as a waitress and looked tired and dejected. She recognized him immediately but tried to pretend otherwise.

After placing his order, Matthew left her a generous tip, silently emphasizing how different their lives had become. He knew he had made the right choice by surrounding himself with people who truly valued life and relationships.

Now, he had a real family, where love and mutual support were the most important values.

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The Old House – A New Life