The first morning rays of the summer sun peeked cautiously through the windowpane of the room, as if afraid to disturb the sweet moments of someone’s sleep. The women were indeed still asleep. Only the old woman lying by the window had been awake for a long time. Memories from the past gripped her heart with pain and warmed her soul. Vera smiled at times, then wiped away an unbidden tear. Why did it happen that, on the threshold of her nineties, she became unwanted by anyone? Her heart ached most for her daughter, for Ellen. No matter what had …

Emily sat on the edge of the bed, staring at a small pile of clothes. A few months ago, she had moved from a rural town to the city, but she still hadn’t adjusted to the fast-paced, metropolitan lifestyle. Life in her hometown was different—quiet, simple, with straightforward people and a calm, steady rhythm. The city was a world apart. Emily was born into a modest, working-class family. Her father, a stern but fair man, would give his last dime to make his daughter happy. Her mother was reserved but practical. From a young age, Emily dreamed of a glamorous …

James came home from work exhausted and immediately collapsed onto the couch. — Why are you sprawled out like that? — his surprised wife asked. — I’m completely worn out today, Emma. I’ll lie here for a bit. If you’re really hungry, go ahead and eat without me. — Eat? — Emma’s surprise grew. — We’re not eating here tonight. Have you forgotten where we’re supposed to be going? — Oh, God… — James groaned, remembering what she meant, his face contorting in misery. — You know what, darling, I don’t want to go anywhere tonight. I don’t want to, …

When the doorbell rang and James peered through the peephole, he couldn’t believe his eyes. Standing outside was his ex-wife, Emily. — Who’s there? — he asked, just to be sure. — It’s me… — came the painfully familiar voice. — James, open the door quick. James reluctantly opened the door. — How did you find me? — he asked, his tone sour instead of welcoming. — What, you’re not happy to see me? — Emily shot back with a question of her own. — How did you find me? — James repeated, his voice now tinged with irritation. — …

James had been running for half an hour along the paths of this cozy suburban park when his athletic solitude was interrupted in the most ruthless way. — Sir, where are you running to? — Suddenly, a young woman, about thirty, in a brand-new tracksuit, appeared beside James, trying to match his pace. James glanced at her as if she were crazy, stayed silent, and picked up his speed. The woman sped up too. — You still haven’t answered, sir! Where are you running to? — I’m just running… — James finally replied, trying not to lose his breathing rhythm. …