admin

Part 1 In a small, cozy office the curtains were drawn, a pleasant half-light enveloped the room, and the air was filled with the scent of incense as a fortune-telling session was underway. Opposite a young, pleasant blue-eyed woman—who by appearance did not at all look like a fortune-teller—sat a pregnant client, looking at her … Read more

— How? That can’t be! Dasha looked at the doctor in bewilderment. “— Well, unfortunately, these things happen. You know, it’s impossible to predict. Diagnostics rarely catch this. But don’t worry, it’s nothing critical. With care, treatment, and time, everything will be fine.” Dasha looked at her son’s wrinkled little face and wept quietly. She … Read more

At the question of nine‐year‐old Arishka, her father was at a loss. He had no answer… He wasn’t some priest to expound on God. Vasily was known in the district as a stove-maker, skillful and always eager to work. Assembling a stove was a breeze; but answering such complex questions was beyond the capacity of … Read more

Milana had long wanted to buy a little house in the countryside. She had searched for that perfect spot with a river nearby, a forest, and magnificent nature. Mila had spent her entire life in the “concrete jungle”—that’s what she called her city. — And when will you fulfill your dream?— she thought to herself. … Read more

Victoria could barely move her legs—she was utterly exhausted. No wonder, as she had gotten up with the roosters to tackle all the chores. Her daily routine knew no bounds. Not only did she have to clean the chicken coop and prepare meals, but she also had to fetch water from the well and wash … Read more

Christina stopped by the store after work. There were only four days left until New Year’s, and her refrigerator was still empty. There was a catastrophic lack of time. And the Christmas tree stood in the corner, unadorned, as if to remind her of her disorganization. Outside, a piercing wind blew. After the recent thaw, … Read more

Yulia stopped the car a block away from her mother-in-law’s house. The clock read 5:45 PM – she had arrived earlier than scheduled. “Maybe she’ll finally appreciate my punctuality,” she thought as she smoothed out the wrinkles in her new dress. The gift was carefully wrapped on the back seat – an antique brooch she had … Read more

— Dad, are you serious? I’m not going to work here! — But you will, Pasha. And don’t even think about resisting. If you keep this up, I’ll just turn my back and leave you to deal with it on your own. Think about how many troubles you’ve already caused. Pavel snorted and turned away. … Read more

When the Heart Makes a Choice “Roma, Romochka, we have twins!” came Tanya’s joyful and excited voice on the phone. “They’re so tiny—only about 2.5 kilograms—but healthy, can you imagine? Everything’s fine!” “At the ultrasound they said it was twins, right…” grumbled Roman, as if the news hadn’t surprised him. “Boys?” “Yes, boys! They’re so … Read more

— Could it be that your Lena is now planning to sleep with us? — I asked sarcastically. — She isn’t even worthy of your attention! Or have you really succumbed to her cozy evenings and culinary masterpieces? I cook no worse! I had always considered myself above jealousy. But it turned out that was … Read more