Evgenia and her companion Inna had been seated at a café table for over an hour, their eyes glued to the window in anticipation of a significant event. They had downed two coffees each and indulged in plenty of pastries, yet the street scene remained uneventful. Evgenia broke the silence with a note of frustration:
«Inna, that’s enough! I can’t waste any more time watching nothing happen. Artem isn’t like that; we’ve shared a lifetime together. Yes, he has his faults, but infidelity isn’t one of them! Let’s leave before we draw more attention.»
Inna, however, was adamant:
«Hold on, just ten more minutes. They’ll appear soon, right after work. Trust me, I’ve spotted your husband with that glamorous woman several times. She’s definitely more than just a friend. Look, there they are!»
As Evgenia pressed her face against the glass, she saw Artem emerge from an office building, affectionately holding hands with a strikingly attractive young woman. He was clearly besotted, assisting her into the car with a kiss on the cheek.
Overwhelmed by a surge of emotion, Evgenia gasped in pain. Inna quickly fanned her with a napkin and handed her water:
«Evgenia, are you alright? I wanted to uncover the truth for you, but I didn’t intend to cause you pain…»
Evgenia took a sip and replied:
«It’s nothing, just my heart fluttering—probably the caffeine. Maybe she’s just a colleague or an acquaintance. Let’s not weave such dramatic tales. I need to head home; Artem will expect dinner.»
Inna, frustrated, snapped back:
«Fine, keep your blinders on if you wish.»
Disturbed, Evgenia pondered: «It’s been ten years, and I still haven’t been able to conceive. Maybe that’s why he’s with her, to have a child. What should I do now? I love him deeply. What about us?»
Inna, seeing her friend distressed, made a sudden proposal:
«Forget about dinner for now. There’s a reputable psychic nearby. Many of our friends swear by her accuracy. Why don’t we visit her? She might offer you clarity.»
Evgenia laughed off the suggestion:
«Inna, we’re thirty, not three. Fortune-telling? That’s just for fun, right? But sure, let’s see what she has to say. How much does she charge anyway?»
Inna explained:
«She doesn’t charge. People give what they feel, but she never asks.»
Secretly, Evgenia felt uneasy about their next step. What if the psychic’s words brought bad news?
She imagined a typical psychic’s den with candles, dim lighting, a woman in a dark robe, and Tarot cards. Instead, they were greeted by a cheerful elderly woman in a sunny kitchen, which almost disappointed her.
The woman asked nothing of her but to hold out her hand and whispered as she examined her palm:
«My dear, your life’s path is complex, filled with both tears and smiles. You’ve endured much and stayed strong. You’re generous, and others often exploit that. Don’t anguish over your husband; he’s not your destined companion. Today, you’ll meet a stranger who will change your life; he is meant for you.»
Evgenia chuckled, managing to keep her amusement in check, as she expressed gratitude to the elderly lady and left the building alongside her companion. She mulled over the encounter internally:
«Goodness, what utter drivel. So vague and general—it could apply to anyone. How can anyone take this seriously in the modern era? It’s just empty phrases, honestly.»
That evening, as a relentless rain began to fall, Evgenia finished preparing dinner while Artem was still out. She felt a wave of solitude, prompting her to sit by the window. Closing her eyes, she replayed her life’s moments one by one, like threading beads on a string.
Growing up, Evgenia was quite the tomboy, raised in a modest home. Her father was a lifelong furnace operator, and her mother cleaned at the school she attended. Life was a constant struggle to make ends meet. Treats like chocolate were rare, reserved only for significant celebrations, and all her clothes and toys were second-hand. Her mother perpetually appeared weary and resigned, while her father often drank and took out his frustrations on the family. Consequently, Evgenia spent most of her time outdoors. She befriended a hobbling stray dog named Toshka and fed all the neighborhood animals, often drawing her mother’s ire for giving away their scarce resources.
At school, Evgenia’s classmates often excluded her, partly because she was in a math-focused class that typically attracted the affluent or exceptionally gifted. While her peers flaunted new, stylish accessories and gadgets, Evgenia stuck out with her patched uniform and shabby shoes. Her name, too, became a source of embarrassment, perceived as masculine and awkward among her peers, who mockingly called her «Zhenka» or «Zhenyok.»
Despite these challenges, Evgenia was unafraid to stand up for herself, often with the help of her best friend, Matvey, a quiet boy orphaned and raised by his grandmother. He, too, knew the sting of poverty and helped carry Evgenia’s burdens—both metaphorical and literal—through their school years. Their classmates would taunt them, suggesting Matvey had a crush on her, but he would simply clench his fist, grab her hand, and lead her away from any conflict.
Evgenia thrived academically, excelling in mathematics without any formal tutoring. Her natural aptitude for numbers earned her top honors in competitions, boosting her school’s reputation and earning her teachers’ reluctant respect despite her rebellious streak.
Matvey remained Evgenia’s steadfast companion throughout their schooling. Together, they faced the harshness of their peers with resilience and a shared understanding of each other’s hardships.
After school, Evgenia sailed into university, choosing to study economics. There, she became known for her outgoing nature, helping peers during exams, and engaging in various social activities. Her college years were marked by ease and enjoyment, a stark contrast to her challenging childhood.
After graduating from university, Zhenya secured a trial position as an economist at a prestigious firm, filling her with excitement. She quickly demonstrated her capabilities, impressing her colleagues. However, Artem, a young manager born to affluent parents, initially dismissed her, viewing Zhenya as an inexperienced upstart. She, in turn, saw him as nothing more than a privileged brat. A palpable tension lingered between them, seemingly on the brink of conflict. Zhenya would have scoffed at the idea that Artem could ever become her spouse.
During the firm’s anniversary celebration, the management decided to throw a party. While Zhenya shone, winning contest after contest with her wit and vivacity, Artem watched from the sidelines, irked yet strangely drawn to her energy. Despite criticizing her in his thoughts as unspectacular and overconfident, he found himself irresistibly attracted to her. Their paths crossed during a team competition where Artem, flustered, almost jeopardized their chances. Zhenya, rather than ridiculing him, supported and encouraged him, leading their team to victory. In a moment of gratitude, Artem kissed her cheek, sparking an unexpected connection. They spent the rest of the evening dancing and laughing together, and what began as a corporate function blossomed into a slow-burning romance.
Their differences were stark; Artem was controlling and liked things a certain way, while Zhenya was adaptable and conflict-averse. Despite their contrasting personalities, they married in a grand ceremony six months later. Zhenya often pondered what made her fall for such a seemingly arrogant man, but without him, she felt incomplete.
Tragedy had struck Zhenya early; she lost both parents in quick succession, deepening her emotional ties to Artem, who offered a sense of stability. Artem’s family, however, remained indifferent, valuing connections and wealth over personal qualities and dismissing Zhenya’s lack of dowry and social standing.
As time passed, the couple faced challenges in starting a family. Despite numerous doctor visits, Zhenya couldn’t conceive, and Artem refused any medical tests, insisting he was not the issue. This sensitive matter caused much distress, with societal pressures and personal desires for children intensifying the strain. Zhenya transformed over the years from a spirited tomboy to the epitome of a polished wife, yet beneath her refined exterior, she yearned for the simplicity and joy of her younger days.
The couple’s relationship cooled as Artem switched jobs, leading to conflicting schedules and decreased interaction. Their emotional distance grew when a friend hinted that Artem might be seeing someone else. Torn between confronting her husband or maintaining a façade to avoid conflict, Zhenya found herself at a crossroads, questioning her next steps in a marriage that once seemed destined.
While Evgenia was lost in thought, a homeless man, clad in a tattered long coat, huddled on a bench near her residence, shivering in the relentless downpour. The storm hammered relentlessly against the roof and windows, its winds stripping the trees of their last leaves. Moved by a wave of compassion, Evgenia reflected on her own circumstances—her luxurious home, satisfying career, and yet a lingering sense of discontent. In contrast, this poor soul lacked even the most basic shelter. The harshness of his reality struck her deeply, and impulsively, she stepped outside and gestured for him to come over, thinking, «What harm could it do to offer some warmth and a meal?»
The man looked up in surprise but cautiously approached. As she ushered him inside, she offered:
«Please, come in out of this terrible weather. Have some warm tea, wait out the storm. It’s no trouble at all. You could catch cold out there, or at least take an umbrella with you.»
With hesitation, the man stepped in, perching on the edge of a stool by the door. Removing his hood, Evgenia gasped in recognition:
«Matvey? Is that really you? It’s me, Zhenya Usova, we were in school together. Don’t you remember?»
He stared back, his expression one of total confusion:
«Zhenya? I—I don’t remember anything. I was found injured by some locals; they said I was hit on the head. I woke up in a shelter with no memory of who I am or where I’m from. Are you sure we know each other?»
At that moment, the door swung open, and an inebriated Artem staggered in. Catching sight of the disheveled man, he erupted in anger:
«What is this? Bringing strangers into our home now? Is this your lover? Typical, given your background…»
Shocked by his accusations, Evgenia retorted:
«Artem, stop it! You’re out of line. This is a friend from school who’s fallen on hard times. He’s not what you think. I can prove it with our old photos. Apologize this instant!»
But Artem, seemingly deaf to her pleas, continued his tirade:
«It’s all clear to me now. This is who you truly are, Zhenya. I never imagined… You’re betraying me with him? That’s repulsive! I can’t stay any longer… I’m filing for divorce! I’ve been considering it for a while anyway!»
In a flurry of anger, he started packing his belongings into a suitcase. Zhenya wept, begging him to see reason, but he slammed the door as he left, filled with resentment.
Overwhelmed by sorrow, Zhenya turned her distress toward Matvey:
«Why did you have to show up and ruin everything? I tried to help you, and now I’ve lost my husband. Are you satisfied? Now leave! My life is in shambles!» – she said as she began to push him toward the door.
Unexpectedly, Matvey didn’t leave. Instead, he remained on the bench outside, clutching his head and continuing to endure the relentless rain.
Zhenya, distraught, attempted to reach her husband by phone, only to be consistently disconnected. Finally, a woman with a calm tone answered:
«Artem can’t talk right now. Don’t call back. Haven’t you two separated?»
Zhenya was consumed by a mix of betrayal and injustice. Not only had Artem been unfaithful, but he had also twisted the narrative to make her the villain. As darkness enveloped the evening, she glanced out the window, half-hoping Artem might return, but was instead stricken by the sight of Matvey still outside, shivering and drenched. Her heart softened, and she stepped outside, approaching him decisively:
«Matvey, I’m sorry for earlier. It wasn’t your fault. I was overwhelmed with grief. Please, come back inside. My husband has left; there’s nothing more to lose…»
He followed her back inside, his demeanor one of resignation and fatigue. Just as he attempted to sit, his color drained, and he began to collapse slowly to the floor. Zhenya, alarmed, felt his forehead, burning with fever.
Struggling to move him onto the couch, she removed his soaked, odorous clothing, prepared a basin of warm water, and started wiping him down. She also applied a vinegar compress, changing it frequently. But Matvey’s condition worsened: he became delirious, tossing in his feverish state, and barely coherent. A panicked Zhenya grabbed the phone and called her friend:
«Inna, I need you to do something immediately. Go to the pharmacy, grab some fever reducers and antibiotics, and come over as fast as you can. I’ll fill you in later. Please hurry!»
When her friend arrived and saw a semi-clad man on the couch, she was taken aback:
«My goodness, Zhenya! Who is this? What’s going on? Where’s Artem?»
Zhenya responded with a dismissive gesture:
«Artem and I are done. This is Matvey, an old school friend. He’s in a bad way and needs immediate help. We don’t have time for details—please, you’re medically trained! He’s got a severe fever, likely caught from the rain. We need to act fast to save him!»
Her friend sprung into action, checking Matvey’s temperature, which alarmingly read dangerously high. She administered a few injections and instructed Zhenya to keep Matvey hydrated with frequent, small spoonfuls of water.
For the next four nights, Inna and Zhenya vigilantly cared for Matvey, taking shifts at his bedside, fearing for his life as his condition seemed to stagnate despite their efforts.
In a moment of desperation, Zhenya held Matvey’s hand and pleaded:
«Please, don’t leave us. Hang in there, I’m begging you! God, please watch over him. Inna, why isn’t he improving?»
Frustrated, her friend retorted:
«We should’ve called for professional help instead of trying this ourselves. I can’t diagnose him—I’m not equipped for that! He might have pneumonia, or worse. We’re not qualified for this, Zhenya. Between your breakup and now this, it’s too much. We could both end up in serious trouble.»
Zhenya quietly countered:
«He has no ID; the hospital might turn him away as just another homeless case. Matvey’s been my protector since we were kids. I can’t just leave him like this. It wouldn’t be right. I think he’s been through something terrible.»
Miraculously, by the next morning, Matvey’s fever began to decline. Zhenya, although drained, managed to change the sweat-soaked sheets beneath him. As Matvey’s breathing stabilized into a calm rhythm, he drifted into a peaceful sleep.
Relieved, Zhenya finally allowed herself to relax, collapsing into a nearby chair and quickly falling asleep. She didn’t notice Inna quietly exit, closing the door behind her. In her slumber, she thought she heard Matvey’s faint voice:
«Zhenya, is that you?»
She woke with a start, rushing to his side, overjoyed:
«Matvey, you remember me? Your fever’s broken; you’re looking so much better. How are you feeling? Do you need a doctor?»
He gave a weak nod:
«I’m feeling much improved, thanks to your care. No hospitals, please.»
Determined, Zhenya declared:
«Just one more injection, and you should be on the mend for good.» She carefully prepared the antibiotic, her hands trembling slightly.
Matvey withstood the injection with remarkable courage and continued:
«Can you believe it? It’s as if I’ve suddenly remembered everything. It’s quite fascinating how life unfolds. After finishing school, I ventured into the business world and gradually established myself. I own a modest transport company that operates several trucks. For years, we’ve been running smoothly, with loyal customers and dedicated employees. Three days ago, I was en route to your city to clear up some business misunderstandings. I normally never pick up hitchhikers—too unpredictable. However, that night, I encountered a young couple, evidently in love. They were shivering in the cold, tentatively thumbing a lift. The girl was carrying a sports bag, leading me to guess they were students on their way home. Moved by their situation, I decided to stop. What could be the harm in offering a ride? Our conversation was enjoyable, and we were nearing the city when the girl requested a brief stop, claiming she felt nauseous and needed air. I obliged and pulled over, suspecting nothing. But then… I felt a severe blow to my head and blacked out. The next thing I knew, some homeless individuals had found me and taken me to a shelter, saving me from freezing in the roadside brush. Naturally, my money, phone, and car were stolen. The loss of my memory was the most terrifying part. Roaming the city, clueless about my identity or origin, felt like being from another planet. But now, I must report to the police. The likelihood of recovering my car is minimal—it’s probably been stripped and sold—but I still have to attempt it.»
Zhenya listened in dismay.
«How horrific! Your family must be beside themselves, searching desperately for you.»
Matvey shook his head with a somber expression.
«I have no one left. My parents passed away years ago; I stayed with my grandmother during school before she too died. I’ve been on my own since. Never married, no children. My work colleagues might be puzzled about not being able to contact me, but they know I travel frequently for business.»
Zhenya inquired softly, «Why never married? Haven’t you fallen in love since?»
Matvey held her gaze and gently took her hand. «I haven’t… You were my high school crush. I loyally carried your books, hoping you’d see how much I cared. But to you, I was just another friend. Out of fear, I never confessed my feelings. Later, whenever I met someone I thought I could like, it just didn’t feel right. I still see your fiery curls, your vibrant laugh, and that mischievous smile.»
Zhenya, taken aback, responded, «Matvey… I had no idea. I always thought of us as just friends.»
Matvey began to collect his belongings. «Thank you for everything, Zhenya. You truly were my savior! Without your generosity and caring, I might not have survived. You and your friend went to great lengths. That’s invaluable. I must go now, and I regret any trouble I caused with your husband. If it helps, I can explain to him that we were merely old school friends who met by chance, and nothing inappropriate occurred. This entire situation has been quite awkward.»
Zhenya dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. «No need for that. I’ve no interest in reconciling. He’s well aware nothing inappropriate happened between us. Moreover, he’s been unfaithful for quite some time—I’ve caught him myself. He used this situation as a pretext to leave, creating chaos and accusing me of fictitious wrongdoings to justify himself. It’s simpler that way… You know, Matvey, there was genuine love between us in the beginning, and I felt it deeply. But over the years, we drifted apart. We weren’t blessed with children, and there’s little to dispute over now. The house is mine, while the car, the apartment, and his shares in the business are his. It should remain that way. Living with him after his deceit is unthinkable. So, don’t carry any guilt. In fact, I’m rather pleased we’ve reconnected. You’ve changed from that gangly, awkward teen I remember into a strong, attractive man. Oh, and I’ve laundered your clothes. Here they are.»
Matvey chuckled. «You’ve changed too—not the stout, spirited girl with braids anymore. You’ve blossomed into a real lady, and that new hairstyle is very becoming. You look absolutely stunning! Now that you’re effectively single, I won’t let this opportunity pass. Just so you know—I intend to woo you!» He gave her a playful wink.
Zhenya felt a warmth and lightness she hadn’t experienced in years. Matvey’s flattering words and renewed attention sparked a sense of youth and freedom in her.
Matvey later filed a police report, and remarkably, two weeks after a police raid in an industrial zone at the city’s edge, his car was recovered, albeit the perpetrators had vanished. Relieved, he returned to his business with renewed focus.
Meanwhile, Zhenya faced a tumultuous and painful divorce. Artem had never anticipated such decisiveness from her, assuming his staged dramatics would make her plead for his return. Instead, she stood firm, which infuriated him. He retaliated by causing disturbances at her workplace, slandering her character, and even inciting his parents to harass her with calls and lectures.
Throughout these challenges, Matvey remained steadfastly by Zhenya’s side, protecting her as he had during their school days.
The ordeal intensified when Artem’s affair became public, leading to rampant workplace gossip and severe criticism from her in-laws, who accused her of ingratitude and infidelity, despite their earlier acceptance of her into the family.
Artem’s mistress, Zhanna, initially rejoiced at his arrival, suitcase in hand, ready for their new life together. She envisioned a lavish lifestyle supported by his earnings. However, reality struck hard when their living arrangement quickly soured due to her inability to meet his expectations for household management and emotional support. After a month, their relationship dissolved amid bitter arguments.
Feeling a renewed sense of independence, Artem attempted to regain Zhenya’s affection with grand gestures and apologies, but she remained resolute. With Matvey, she found serenity—a stark contrast to adapting to Artem’s volatile moods. Matvey, still the compassionate and kind-hearted friend from her youth, was now her unwavering protector.
As Matvey watched the toll that constant pressure took on Zhenya, he finally made a proposition:
«Zhenya, why should we keep shuttling between cities just to be together? Come live with me. You can handle the accounting for my business, and let’s get married. Maybe we’ll have children, maybe not, but either way, we’ll have each other. I can’t offer you a lavish lifestyle, but away from Artem, you’ll find peace. You’ve been under so much stress lately—it’s been hard to see you this way.»
Zhenya was apprehensive; restarting her life at 30 was intimidating. Yet, she chose to embrace the change and agreed to his proposal.
A year on, Zhenya had adapted to her new existence. She and Matvey wed in a simple ceremony, enjoying a serene, fulfilling life together, understanding one another completely and sharing everything openly.
One day, Matvey arrived home with a grin, teasing:
«Guess what I discovered under my car today? Isn’t he just adorable?»
Peering from under his jacket was a slender, drenched gray kitten, its nose twitching curiously. Zhenya’s delight was palpable; she had always wanted a kitten. As a child, she cared for stray cats around her neighborhood, though her mother had never allowed her to keep one. Artem, too, had sternly opposed the idea. Now, this small dream was realized.
They welcomed the kitten into their home, naming him Harry. Zhenya nurtured him with tender care, feeding him warm milk and crafting a cozy sleeping spot for him. Harry quickly became a source of joy, amusing them with his playful antics.
However, Zhenya soon began to feel unwell, marked by lethargy and a loss of appetite. When she experienced sudden severe abdominal pain, a frantic Matvey rushed her to the hospital. There, a doctor delivered a cautious prognosis:
«Your wife is pregnant, but it’s very early and there are risks involved. Given her age, the pregnancy is precarious, her kidneys are stressed, and there’s a notable risk of genetic issues with the baby. I advise you to consider the risks carefully.»
Back in the hospital room, Zhenya, already briefed by the doctor, asserted:
«I know what the doctor has said. I’ve longed for a child for years, resigned myself to the idea I couldn’t have one, and now we have this unexpected chance. It’s risky, but I need to pursue this, even at great personal risk. I hope for your support.»
Matvey held her close, his resolve firm.
«I love you. Everything will be okay—I believe it, and you should too. Ignore the doubts. We’re going to have a healthy, beautiful child.»
The pregnancy proved challenging, with Zhenya frequently hospitalized to prevent a miscarriage. She didn’t reach full term, and the delivery was both urgent and premature. Nevertheless, they were blessed with a tiny boy with bright red hair, whom they named Bogdan, celebrating his arrival as nothing less than a miracle.
Matvey doted on him, tenderly taking care of his every need, while Zhenya reveled in her new role as a mother, her heart overflowing with love and fulfillment. She often whispered to Bogdan, affirming her joy and the profound essence of motherhood.
They decided to baptize Bogdan, choosing their dearest friend Inna as his godmother, knowing her wisdom and maternal experience would be invaluable. Zhenya personally extended the invitation, grateful for the close, trusted bond they shared.
As they sipped coffee together, Zhenya poured out her heart to Inna.
«Inna, it’s amazing how much my life has transformed with Matvey. Before, it felt like I was living someone else’s script, always bending to Artem’s wishes, swallowing my words, even quitting dancing—something I loved—because he disapproved. I kept telling myself that was the sacrifice needed for a perfect marriage.
«Now, with Matvey, life is delightfully simple. We can enjoy a picnic on the lawn, have ice cream in bed while binge-watching our favorite shows, or cycle around the park over the weekend. Artem would’ve scoffed at such ‘mundane’ activities. He preferred dining strictly at the table and only showed up at high-profile events.
«The day Matvey brought home a kitten, I was moved to tears. You remember how Artem was staunchly against pets. And Bogdan’s arrival—it’s miraculous. After being labeled barren by Artem and his family, I’d given up on the dream of motherhood. But Matvey never stopped believing; he assured me we’d be parents to a healthy baby. If someone had predicted this drastic turn in my life, I’d have laughed it off.»
Inna chuckled in response. «You were skeptical even when that fortune-teller predicted a change, right? Remember? She said, ‘The wanderer who enters your home will change your destiny.’”
Zhenya’s expression turned thoughtful. «You’re right! I had completely forgotten about that. Maybe we should see her again. I’m curious about how she could predict everything so accurately.»
Later, when they revisited the fortune-teller, Zhenya was eager for answers.
«Do you recall our last visit? You prophesied that a stranger would drastically alter my path—and incredibly, it all happened! I’m now happily married and a mother. How were you able to see that in my future?»
The fortune-teller offered a gentle smile. «When you came before, your eyes showed your turmoil, your fear of moving forward. I didn’t foresee your future—I only encouraged you to embrace possible changes. You were the one who transformed your life, not me.»
Zhenya left the visit perplexed and intrigued. Could it be mere coincidence, or was there something mystical at play?
Walking through the park later, with Matvey pushing the stroller beside her, Zhenya often reflected on the fortune-teller’s words. How could she not consider the power of fate after such a profound turn in her life?
