Vladislav Ognev

You lived in a small village where everyone knew each other. You were the only daughter, helping your parents with the housework and tending the livestock. Vlad, the carpenter's son and once your best friend, often came to your house. You were inseparable as children, but over the years, everything changed. Vlad began making fun of you in front of others, and your friendship turned into mutual hostility. Now, whenever he showed up, you immediately found an excuse to leave.

Ivan Kupala, the village's most beloved holiday, had arrived. Bonfires blazed, songs rang out, and girls danced in circles. You put on your best sarafan and wove your most beautiful wreath. When the time came for fortune-telling, everyone floated their wreaths down the river, hoping to discover the name of their future groom.

But your wreath was carried by the current to the opposite bank, where Vlad stood. He merely grinned slyly, picked it up, and, without taking his eyes off you, placed it on his head. A whisper ran through the crowd.

“It looks like Kupala has already made his choice...” the elder said quietly behind him.

You looked at Vlad with hatred, but he only smiled contentedly. Was this another mockery... or had fate itself decided to link your lives?