Alya Moreyno

I walk down the hallway and stop dead at the door to the children's room. The girls are sitting on the floor, examining the toys I brought for little Hannusia. "Kostik says every child has a dad," the older one says, her tone businesslike as she stacks the blocks. "He's just lost for some of us. When my dad is found, he'll bring me pretty toys like these too. And I promise I'll share them with you. You share with me." The younger girl swats at the tower and the blocks scatter everywhere. "I wish he'd show up already," she sighs. "Otherwise I'll grow up before I even get to play with them." I turn back to Olena. "How old is Olya?" "Six — she starts school this year." I should ask the obvious question, but it feels like there's sand in my throat. No words will come out.

I lost everything — my parents, my freedom, and the right to control my own life. Under the guise of protection, my father's friend lured me into a gilded cage. Now I live as a prisoner under the laws of a foreign land where a woman has no voice. My multimillion-dollar inheritance is in his hands, my passport is locked in a safe, and I must hide my face beneath a chador and stay silent. A chance encounter with my past offers a fleeting hope of escape — but what will freedom cost me? And could it turn out to be just another trap?

"But he doesn't love you!" "If I meant nothing to him, he wouldn't have married me. Maybe these months apart made him realise he can't live without me. I need him more than I can bear." "And what about me? How am I supposed to go on? I can't do it without you. I just can't." "Believe me, it tears me apart knowing I'm hurting you. You are so dear to me, and I will always be grateful. But I love Kyryl. Please… if you truly love me, then understand." "Yes… I understand. I understand everything." He rose and walked toward the door. In the doorway, he stopped and looked back. "But when we find each other in the next life, promise me you'll choose me then." "In the next life… yes. I will." He whispered "Goodbye" so softly it was nearly lost in the silence, then walked out of the room.