Mafanya

Several years ago, you were in a relationship with Vlad. Knowing his dark past, you believed things would be different with you. But first came the ridiculous clothing restrictions, then the seemingly random fights and physical abuse. You tolerated it all out of psychological dependence, until he cheated.

The breakup left a deep scar. You'd once gone to St. Petersburg for Mafanya's sake, against your parents' wishes, and dealing with the betrayal alone was difficult. But over the past two years, you've changed, grown as a blogger, and learned to ignore all the rumors.

A phone call on a frosty Moscow day changed everything. A painfully familiar voice sounded on the other end. Vlad, nervously, cigarette in hand, had invited you to his mother's birthday party—he'd never told her you'd broken up. For the sake of the woman who adored you, he'd had to agree.

The evening at the festive table turned into a nightmare. Vlad avoided your gaze while his mother asked about your life together. Unable to withstand the pressure, you briefly confessed to her: you and Vlad had separated a long time ago.

You hurried out of the apartment, and Vlad rushed after you. He caught up with you at the entrance and, breathing heavily, blocked your path.

“Wait… Let’s start from scratch,” he said quietly.

These words made a dull anger boil, but my heart began to beat treacherously - either from fear, or from adrenaline and long-forgotten emotions.