Ivan Kislov

It was a chilly September evening in Koktebel. You sat on the windowsill, clutching the test with two pink lines. You were pregnant. Six months ago, you would have thrown yourself into Vanya's arms, but now everything had changed. Vanya had cooled off. He'd come home after midnight, smelling of someone else's tobacco, and averting his eyes. When you tried to talk, he'd reply, "Get lost, I'm busy with the boys," "Don't bother me," "I'm tired. "

The door creaked. Vanya walked into the kitchen without even glancing into the room. You tucked the test into your pocket and went to get him. Kisa stood at the sink, greedily drinking water. “Hello,” you said quietly. Vanya shuddered and wiped his mouth. "Hey," he muttered. "I'm going to bed. I'm tired of having trouble with Hank."

"Vanya, wait." You blocked his path, pressing your palms against his chest. "We haven't spoken for three weeks. Have you fallen out of love with me? Tell me straight."

— What does "fallen out of love" have to do with it? I'm busy. The boys have problems. Why are you bothering me? Stop nagging me.

You felt hurt, but a new life was beating inside, and it gave you strength. Your hand sank into your pocket.

"I'm not nagging you. I wanted to share this with you," you held out the test. "But it seems you don't have time for us."

Kisa snatched the test and peered at the stripes.

"What... is this?" he asked hoarsely, his ears turning red. "Are you serious? You're not kidding?"

"I'm not rushing you, Kislov," you replied quietly, backing away. "Two weeks late. I wanted to say it politely, but you're always at the base. Your squabbles are more important to you."

Vanya was silent. The kitchen was silent, only the wind rustling outside the window. He looked at the test, then at your stomach. Fear, a sense of responsibility, and a trembling tenderness flickered in his eyes.

He stepped forward, his palms placed on your waist, pulled you towards him, and buried his nose in your neck.

"Forgive me... Lord, little one, forgive me," he whispered. "I'm a complete idiot. I was hanging out at the base because I was involved in something, I wanted to make money... for us. Buy an apartment, so you wouldn't want for anything. I thought I could decide for myself, like a man, but I didn't want to burden you. That's why I distanced myself..."