Two Weeks Ago...
– Honey! I’m home!
I got back from work an hour earlier than usual, kicking off the uncomfortable heels that had been pinching my feet all day. Even though it’s Sunday, when you run your own business—however small—weekends and holidays are just a distant dream.
And so, I worked tirelessly, no matter what the calendar said.
My little beauty salon, offering standard services like manicures, makeup, massages, and hairstyling, was quite popular in our small town. There was no shortage of clients. Appointments were booked almost two weeks in advance just so ladies could see their favorite stylist.
I loved my job, my business. It was the only thing I had left from my parents. They were passionate about mountaineering, and three years ago, they were caught in an avalanche in the northern mountains of Atiarna. Their bodies were never found, along with dozens of others who had been climbing with them. It was this beloved work that kept me from breaking down and fading away back then. I threw myself into my business headfirst.
Five years ago, my father helped me set everything up and start this venture. He supported me and even brought in my first clients. Things took off quickly. I was proud that I had achieved so much on my own. I worked day and night to improve, advertise, and hire skilled staff.
Our apartment, a modest two-bedroom place on the outskirts of town, also came to me as an inheritance. Despite its size, it was incredibly cozy. I’d managed to decorate it to my taste, adding vibrant touches, paintings, and little figurines.
I lived here with Arthur. I met him a year and a half ago at a club. Tall, dark-skinned, with a charming smile, he stole my naive heart. My youthful innocence blinded me to the fact that he was a freeloader, a predator hunting for women’s affections—and wallets. I was happy with him. He was gallant, clever, showered me with gifts, and whispered endless sweet nothings.
– Honey, – I called again, surprised that he wasn’t there to greet me. I walked down the hallway and froze in front of the bedroom door. Soft music and a woman’s laughter drifted out from behind it.
I stood there, unable to move, already guessing what was happening on the other side of that cursed door.
– Elina, my treasure, – I heard his voice, – come here to me.
– You naughty boy, – a girl replied in a drawn-out tone. My best friend, the one I trusted with everything! – Your Fima will be back soon. I should go.
– She never comes home on time. Always working late, the workaholic! – he whispered, and I could hear the soft moans of my now-former friend.
– Stop it, Arthur! I really need to go.
I couldn’t take it anymore and flung the door open. The scene before me confirmed all my suspicions. Champagne, fruit, a rumpled bed, and the two of them, completely naked. I stood frozen in the doorway, drained of all strength, just looking around in disbelief.
How could he?! How dare he bring her into my home?! Into our bed?! That monster! That scoundrel! That vile man!
– Get out! – I found the strength to say, pointing at the door.
– Fima, it’s not what you think, – Arthur said immediately, spotting me and jumping up to hurriedly pull on his pants.
– I think it’s exactly what I see, – I snapped. – I’m such a fool! How could I be so blind?! – I whispered to myself, sinking into a chair and burying my face in my hands.
– Darling, she’s leaving. Elina just showed up, she... – Arthur started to make excuses, dropping to his knees in front of me.
– I said, get out! – I repeated in a steely tone. – I don’t want to see either of you ever again! Not you, not her! Get out of my house! Get out of my life!
I stood up, grabbed a crystal vase from the shelf—a gift from this very scoundrel—and smashed it on the floor with all my might. It shattered into pieces.
– You’re insane! – Arthur shouted, quickly grabbing my arms. – That thing was worth a fortune!
– It’s worth nothing now! Just like you! Get out! – I wrenched myself free from his grip and slapped him hard across the face. – And you too! And to think I called you a friend. Get out! – I screamed.
The girl didn’t even flinch. She didn’t rush to say anything either, just threw on a pink robe and walked over to Arthur.
– Arthur, sweetie, let’s get out of here. Why bother with this lunatic?
– Shut up, Elina! You don’t understand anything...
– Oh, I know you need her money...
– Shut up, you wretch!
– Ah, so it’s my money, is it?! – I exploded, finally putting the pieces together. How blind and naive I’d been! – You... you despicable man! – I choked on the pain and disappointment, struggling to find the right words. – Get out! And don’t you dare come near me again! Do you understand?!
Arthur whispered something to Elina, and the two of them bolted out of my apartment, leaving me alone in an empty space that no longer felt like home. I was devastated, crushed.
I sank to the floor, exhausted. I had no strength left; my head was ringing. No thoughts, just pain and a fog over my mind.
I don’t know how long I sat there. A doorbell snapped me out of my stupor.
I didn’t react, assuming it was Arthur coming back. The bell rang again, followed by loud, insistent knocking. I got up and trudged to the door. Catching a glimpse of my reflection in the hallway mirror, I recoiled in horror.
My dark skin looked pale, almost greenish. My eyes were red, and my long, dark hair was a tangled mess. Even a scarecrow would look better than me.
I opened the door. Standing before me was a broad-shouldered, short man in a blue uniform, wearing a cap with the emblem of our bank and holding a black folder in his hands.
– Serafima Kirwood?
– Yes, that’s me, – I nodded.
– I have a notice for you.
– I’m sorry? What kind of notice? – I didn’t understand. – Who are you?
– Serafima, my apologies. I’m from the credit department of Atiarna Bank. I’ve been trying to reach you for two weeks to deliver a notification about an outstanding debt. But it’s been in vain. You never open the door, though I can always hear music and laughter coming from the apartment. Six months ago, a loan for two hundred and fifty thousand units was taken out in your name. It hasn’t been repaid even once. The collateral listed is your beauty salon, ‘Edelweiss.’
– That’s impossible, – I shook my head. – There must be a mistake. I never took out any loans, especially not with my salon as collateral.
– Ma’am, there’s no mistake. We’re a reputable organization. We’ve been forced to escalate this to the High Court to recover the debt owed to the bank. You have one week. Otherwise, your business will be transferred to us. Please sign here to acknowledge receipt, – he handed me an envelope and a paper, which I signed and returned to him. – Have a good day, and if I may offer some advice...
– I don’t need your advice, – I interrupted. – Goodbye. – And I shut the door.
– Just what I needed. What loan?! Where did this come from? I had more than enough money of my own!
With trembling hands, I opened the envelope. Everything matched. My name, surname, date of birth, passport details. All correct. The loan amount. The collateral. No reason for the loan was specified. Strange. But I hadn’t taken out any loans. I remembered that clearly. I was still in my right mind. A horrifying realization struck me like lightning. Arthur! Arthur must have taken out the loan using my identity! That scoundrel! So that’s where he got the money for expensive gifts, restaurants, and clubs... And I, naive as ever, believed in his so-called remote computer job.
There’s no way I could gather that sum in a week. It’s a full year’s profit for my salon. I knew this was the end. The end of everything. I wouldn’t even be able to sell the apartment in such a short time, and even if I could, it would only fetch a hundred thousand at most.
So, no matter how I looked at it, my business—the one I’d poured my heart and soul into—would have to be handed over. That damned fool! It’s all because of him! I hate him! How I hate him! I grabbed trinkets he’d given me off the shelves and hurled them to the floor. Vases, figurines, glasses, mugs. Everything crashed down.
– Argh! – A desperate growl escaped my throat. My hands clenched into fists involuntarily. My body arched as if struck by an electric shock.
Startled, I froze and stopped smashing things. I bolted out of the bedroom and hid in the second room, which used to be my childhood space. A small couch still sat there, and on the shelves nailed to the wall were dolls, plush bears, and bunnies, alongside books. The scent of childhood lingered here. I often daydreamed about how I’d decorate it for my own child one day.
I climbed onto the couch, curled up under a fluffy pink blanket with colorful swirls, and drifted into sleep.
***
The next morning, I woke up to my smartphone ringing.
– Hello, – I answered quickly.
– Serafima, we’ve got an emergency, – Mariella screeched into the phone without even a greeting. – One of our regular clients, Mrs. Alexandra, has her face covered in allergic breakouts. She was here for makeup yesterday and...
– But that’s impossible, – I jumped out of bed, instantly awake. – We always order hypoallergenic products from trusted suppliers.
– She wants to speak with you personally. Will you be here soon?
– I’m on my way, – I replied. – Offer Mrs. Alexandra some coffee while she waits for me.
I ended the call and rushed to the bathroom. I needed to pull myself together fast. Stripping quickly, I stepped under a cool shower. The water was refreshing and invigorating. I washed my hair, still a tangled mess and completely unmanageable. After blow-drying it in a hurry, I tied it into a high ponytail, then twisted it into a bun. I applied mascara to my eyes and a touch of gloss to my lips. Wrapping myself in a towel, I dashed out of the bathroom and into the bedroom to pick an outfit for the day.
I settled on a black short-sleeved blouse, mint-colored trousers, and sandy-colored ballet flats.
To match the outfit, I put on a wide green bracelet my father had given me when I was a teenager. I’d never worn it before, thinking it was tacky and out of place. But today, it complemented my look perfectly. Silver sapphire earrings completed my ensemble, and finally, grabbing my small black purse, I rushed out of the apartment.
I couldn’t bring myself to drive my sports car, so I hailed a taxi and was at my salon within fifteen minutes.
– Good morning! – I greeted, approaching the reception desk where a pale and frightened Mariella stood.
– Good morning, Ms. Serafima, – she nodded. – Mrs. Alexandra is waiting for you. And she’s very, very upset with our salon.
– I’ll talk to her. It’s just a misunderstanding.
– A misunderstanding? This dump of yours is the misunderstanding! – Alexandra approached us. She’d been a regular client since the salon opened. A sturdy woman in her forties, always impeccably groomed and outrageously wealthy for our town. Crossing her was a costly mistake. No one would wish to have her as an enemy. And yet, it was me—my salon—that had not only embarrassed itself in front of her but also harmed her health. I completely understood my administrator’s distress.
– Mrs. Alexandra, please, let’s go to my office. I’ll see if there’s anything we can do to fix this, – I offered, examining her face, marred by red spots.
– Oh, really? Are you serious?! – she threw up her hands. – Are you mocking me? I demand a refund for the services, plus compensation for emotional distress! And you’ll pay for my treatment! I’ll never set foot in your salon again!
– Of course, absolutely! We’ll refund all the money you spent on procedures yesterday, – I hurried to assure her. – But please, allow me to find out which product caused this reaction. I personally order all our products from the same supplier, and I wouldn’t want this to happen to any other clients.
– You dare make excuses! What ignorance! Let your technician explain it themselves! I don’t have time to sit around here! And mark my words, I’ll tear this salon to the ground if this, – she gestured to her face, – can’t be treated!
Alexandra covered her face with a veil.
– A bill for five thousand units, including emotional compensation, is already at the administrator’s desk.
With that, she stormed out of the building.
– Mariella, call Santiago, Laura, and Valencia to my office immediately! – I instructed the administrator. – And bring me the bill Alexandra left.
– Yes, Ms. Serafima, – the girl handed me an envelope and picked up the phone.
I strode quickly to my office and settled into the chair behind my transparent glass desk. For a few minutes, I just sat there, staring at the door. What kind of curse was this? First Arthur, then the notice about a loan I knew nothing about, and now this. A string of absurd coincidences? Unlikely. There was something else at play, and I’d figure it out. I had to!
– You called? – Santiago peeked through the door, always cheerful and upbeat. Tall, muscular, with skin tanned to a bronze hue and playful brown eyes, he wore white pants and a T-shirt that suited him incredibly well.
Santo was a favorite makeup artist among most of my clients. And it wasn’t just his professional skills that made him popular—his charisma and charm played a big part too.
Following him into the office was Laura, our accountant. A slender, short woman, she wore square glasses that hid her large blue eyes. She was dressed in a lemon-yellow sundress. With her came Valencia, our office manager, my right-hand woman and assistant.
– Sit down, – I nodded to the couch across from my desk. – I’m listening. What happened yesterday, and which product caused Alexandra’s allergic reaction? – I began.
– Ms. Serafima, – Santiago started, – yesterday was a standard procedure. All the cosmetics were from ‘Reos,’ the brand we always use. We applied a face mask. The expiration dates were fine. I checked them myself. Maximilian couldn’t have set us up like this. We’ve been buying from him for five years!
– Bring me that product! Now!
– Right away, one moment, – Santiago left the office.
– Now, Laura. When was the last delivery?
– A week ago, – she replied, checking her smartphone for the data.
– Okay. Good. Did the shipment arrive on time, Valencia?
– Yes, Ms. Serafima. As soon as you gave the order, I received confirmation that same day, and the goods were here within three days.
– Have you checked the other cosmetics?
– Not yet.
– Then what are you waiting for? Pull the entire batch immediately and bring it to me. I’ll take it to a lab!
At that moment, Santiago returned with a jar of the face mask.
I took it in my hands and turned it over. It looked the same as always: a sandy-colored jar with a brown lid. A transparent label with text. I studied it carefully, checking the ingredients, manufacturing date, and expiration date. Everything seemed fine. Except for one small detail—the label was applied unevenly, even bubbling in one spot. For a reputable company like this, that’s a serious oversight. They wouldn’t allow such a thing. Could it be counterfeit? But why would Maximilian send us fakes? I opened the jar and sniffed the contents. Vanilla scent. White color, thick consistency. I smeared a bit on the back of my hand.
Santo and Laura watched the whole process intently. Valencia returned with a box in her hands.
– Serafima, here’s the entire last batch. Even the box it was delivered in. I hadn’t thrown it out yet.
– Good, – I nodded to her. – Sit down. Tell me, who delivered this batch? Maximilian?
– No, Ms. Serafima. He called the evening before and said he was sick and couldn’t deliver on time. He asked if we could pick it up from the warehouse ourselves. So, I agreed.
– Okay, and who brought it? Did you go? – The girl shrank into her shoulders.
– Ms. Serafima, I thought you knew...
– No, or I wouldn’t be asking. Who delivered the goods? – I asked, enunciating each word clearly.
– Mr. Arthur. He was in the office. He overheard the issue and offered to help... He brought the entire shipment the next day, – the girl turned completely pale.
– I see, – I replied, closing my eyes. – This is some kind of cruel fate.
– What, sorry?
– Nothing. Go, get back to work. Leave all of this here. I’ll handle it from now on.
– Serafima, are you sure you’re okay? – Santiago asked, concerned.
– I’m fine, Santo. Go, work. Do you have enough products to work with?
– Yes, of course.
– Good. I’ll deal with this batch myself.
***
I turned the jar over in my hands, examining it closely once more.
Why on earth would he try to ruin me? First, taking out a massive loan without my knowledge, and now swapping out these skincare products. No matter how much I thought about it, I couldn’t find an answer. Shoving the jar into my bag, I called a taxi. I’d go to his place myself and get to the bottom of this. As painful as it would be to see him now, I had no intention of letting him—or anyone else—take my business away from me!
I grabbed the envelope with the bill from my desk and slipped it into my bag as well. Paying it today was essential, even though the amount wasn’t small. Thankfully, we should have enough in our accounts to cover it.
The taxi arrived quickly. The black sedan with tinted windows got me to my destination in just a few minutes. I asked the driver to wait and headed toward the bank: a tall glass building with a blue roof and neon signs that looked both imposing and a bit audacious. Security guards stood by the entrance.
– Hello! I need to speak with the head of the credit department. Could you tell me where to find them? – I asked one of the guards.
– Go up to the second floor, straight down the hallway, third door on the left.
– Thank you! – I nodded to him.
– Good afternoon, sir! – I knocked on the open door. – May I come in?
– Yes, ma’am, please come in! Have a seat, – a mustached man in an expensive blue suit and polished shoes sat behind an oak desk in a high leather chair. A gold badge on his chest displayed his name, “Gregory,” and his position. He gestured to the chair across from him. – I’m listening.
– I’m here about this loan, – I sat down and placed the paper delivered by yesterday’s visitor in front of him.
– And what’s unclear to you here? – He furrowed his brows. – The loan hasn’t been repaid, so we’ve been forced to...
– But I didn’t take out any loan! Do you understand? Someone set me up! – I raised my voice, then lowered it slightly. – Can I at least see the loan documents, my signature, anything?
– Of course! – He pulled open the top drawer and took out a thin paper folder. – Here. But there’s no signature of yours. The loan was processed through an online account.
– And you just handed over such a huge sum like that? Without a valid reason? The ‘Purpose of Funds’ field is blank!
– Ms. Serafima Kirwood, – he looked at me appraisingly. – We’ve known you and worked with you and your salon for years. For regular clients, we often waive these formalities.
– And that’s a big mistake, Mr. Gregory. A very big mistake. I didn’t take out this loan. I have a suspicion who might have done it in my name, but that doesn’t exempt me from repaying it, does it?
– Exactly. I’m sorry. But there’s nothing I can do. You have very little time.
– I know that! You don’t need to remind me! – I stomped my foot in frustration. – Can I take these papers? – I nodded at the folder.
– Yes, of course. These are copies. We have the originals. And I hope you’ll remain our client.
– Don’t count on it, – I snapped, rising from the chair. – Have a good day, Mr. Gregory.
– And a good day to you, Ms. Serafima.
I left his office and leaned against the cold wall of the hallway, clutching the cursed folder to my chest.
An online loan! Only Arthur could have taken it out. He worked from home and had access to MY computer. Damn it! How wrong I was about him. I trusted him. And now, no lawyer can help me. I can’t prove that I wasn’t the one at the computer that day. There are no cameras in my house, which means I’ll have to pay. But he’ll answer for the salon!
I went down to the cashier and requested to transfer five thousand units to Alexandra from my account.
– I’m sorry, ma’am, but your accounts are frozen. I can’t help you, – the cashier handed me some documents with a sympathetic smile.
– For what reason?
– Outstanding creditor debt, – she replied.
– I see, – I sighed. – Thank you.
– You’re welcome, ma’am.
I walked away from the counter on shaky legs, stumbled over to a pouf, and collapsed, utterly drained.
My head spun from everything that had crashed down on me in a single day. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. And yet, someone I loved, someone I built future plans with, had treated me so cruelly.
– Miss? Are you feeling okay? Can I get you some water? – one of the bank employees approached me.
– Yes, please, if you don’t mind. My head’s spinning.
– It’s the heat. I’ll be right back. – She walked over to a water cooler and filled a glass with cold water. – Here, drink this.
– Thank you, – I nodded.
– Feeling better?
– Yes, thank you.
– Good, – the girl walked away, and I sat for a little longer before leaving the bank. Now, I was headed to the person who orchestrated all of this.
The taxi was waiting for me by the driveway, the driver sipping coffee from a paper cup.
– Ma’am, hop in. I’ve been waiting, – he opened the front door for me.
– Sorry, circumstances held me up, – I nodded gratefully and got into the car. He closed the door, got in himself, and started the engine.
– Where to now?
– Chamomile Boulevard, number nine, please.
– As you wish, ma’am, – the driver punched the address into the GPS, and we smoothly pulled away.
The whole ride, I mulled over what to say to Arthur. How to accuse him while also proving that I knew he was behind all these events?
But nothing sensible came to mind. I was angry at myself for ever trusting him.
– We’re here, – the driver snapped me out of my thoughts. – Should I wait?
– No, don’t bother. I don’t know how long I’ll be.
– Then that’ll be 30 units for the ride.
I nodded, paid him, said goodbye, and stepped out of the car.
– Good luck, ma’am, – the driver called out before speeding off.
I sighed heavily and walked toward the building entrance. I knew the code; it hadn’t changed since my last visit, and I easily got inside. Climbing to the third floor, I kept rehearsing phrases and playing out the encounter in my head.
I stood in front of his door for a few minutes. Finally, I took a deep breath and pressed the doorbell hard.
He opened it almost immediately.
– Fima? – Arthur stood before me in gray sweatpants and a white T-shirt. Still as handsome and attractive as ever. Chocolate tan, dark hair, golden eyes.
– Can I come in? – I asked.
– Yeah, of course, – he stepped aside to let me pass. – Come into the living room.
I took off my shoes and walked into the living room, settling into a chair by the window. He followed like a shadow, closing the door behind him.
– Here’s the thing, – he started. – I know why you’re here.
– But... – I tried to interrupt.
– Fima, listen, – he dropped to his knees in front of me. – I can explain everything. Elina, she came after me, you know, she chased me...
– And you think I’ll believe that, Arthur? I know everything! Everything! You’ve been with her for a while, the music, the fun... But honestly, I don’t care about that anymore. I’m not here for that. How do you explain this? – I pulled out the bank notice about the debt from my bag, followed by Alexandra’s claim and bill. – Nothing to say?
– Fima, – he looked at me, flustered. – I’m sorry...
– Sorry? Are you out of your mind? You’ve ruined me! Do you get that? – Tears welled up in my eyes. – How could you? I trusted you, I... I loved you, damn it! – I slapped him hard across the face. – I hate you! I hate you!
I stood up and started pacing the room.
– Serafima! – He caught me and held me tightly in his arms. – It’s a terrible coincidence... I didn’t mean for this to happen, I swear.
– How dare you, you scoundrel! You still have the nerve to make excuses? No one but you had access to my online account, and you delivered the last batch of cosmetics too! Our salon is in deep trouble... because of you!
– I wanted to save you...
– Save me? – I looked at him like he was insane.
– Save me from what, Arthur? This is my life’s work. This is my soul. And you know, if you have even a shred of conscience, pay off this debt. The loan you took out from my account hasn’t been spent yet, I hope?
– I... I, of course, I’ll pay... You just don’t understand... – He sighed and ran a hand through his hair.
– What am I supposed to understand? Arthur, you’ve taken everything from me... And you know what’s the worst part? You’re not even denying it... This was all planned from the start. I’m such a fool. Such a fool!
– Don’t say that! – He stepped closer and tried to embrace me.
– Don’t come near me, got it? Forget my name, my phone number. I can’t stand the sight of you!
I broke free from his grasp and ran to the door. Thankfully, it wasn’t locked. I raced downstairs, skipping three steps at a time, burst out of the building, and found myself on the noisy street.
There was a park ahead, and I headed there. Being close to nature always calmed me down.
The rustling of leaves in the trees, the squirrels hopping from branch to branch, unafraid to take food from passersby, distracted me a little from my dark thoughts. But I couldn’t accept losing my salon to the bank. I’d still fight for it. I’d try. I’d do my best. And Arthur? I’d forget him like a bad dream. Never, ever again in my life would I trust anyone. I’ve had enough. Life has punished me harshly for my trust. I need to be more cautious. You can only trust yourself. You never know who might stab you in the back.
I trudged back to my building. And there, another disaster awaited me.
A truck pulling out of our courtyard suddenly reversed and crashed into my car! The alarm blared instantly, lights flashing. But the driver didn’t seem fazed; he kept backing up. In seconds, the front bumper crumpled like a cardboard box. I just pulled out my key and pressed the button to silence the alarm, then shuffled toward the entrance on shaky legs. I didn’t have the energy to deal with this too.
– Miss, I’m so sorry! Miss! – On the first floor, a young man, the driver of that cursed truck, caught up with me. – I didn’t see your car. Please, don’t be so upset. I’ll take it to a repair shop myself. I’ll pay for the damages. My engine stalled, and the truck rolled back on its own. I swear!
– Do whatever you want. I don’t care anymore, – I waved him off and continued up the stairs.
– Come on, miss, you can’t just say that. It’s your car...
– Young man, why don’t you take a hike? – I stopped and asked. – I said I don’t care. I’ve already lost practically everything without it. Take it for yourself if you want!
And I bolted up to my apartment. The elevator, of course, wasn’t working today, just to spite me. I don’t remember how I made it to the seventh floor and into my apartment, but only there did I finally feel safe. Leaning against the front door, I breathed heavily, smearing tears across my face. I’d never felt this awful before.
Dropping my bag by the entrance, I went to the shower. I needed to clear my mind and body. I soaked under heavy streams of water for a long time, switching between hot and cold.
The water calmed me a little. After getting out of the shower, I found the strength to brew a cup of tea. I sat with it in the kitchen until late at night. My head felt heavy, a ringing in my ears. I understood, with absolute clarity, that my life would never be the same again.
***
The days leading up to the court hearing flew by in a blur of tasks and worries. I sent all the skincare products for testing, and three days later, the results came back: all of them were expired. And in that face mask, they found traces of herbs that cause skin burns.
When I confronted Arthur with these results, he just shrugged helplessly, trying to explain something, but he never admitted guilt. Yet I knew with certainty that he was behind it all. I couldn’t understand why he’d swap the products for expired ones. He’d already pushed me to the brink of bankruptcy—why complicate things further?
I managed to consult a lawyer I knew, hoping I could still keep the salon in my possession. But there was only one option: repay the debt. I didn’t have that kind of money, and gathering the sum in just a few days was impossible.
I stood in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection. In these few days, I’d lost weight, grown pale, and looked haggard. I barely recognized myself.
Just before leaving, my phone rang.
– Hello, – I answered.
– Ms. Serafima, good morning, – Mariella began. – Max is here. He brought a batch of products. Says no one ever picked it up.
– What? How did he bring it? What about the expired batch?
– I have no idea where Arthur got that from. Unfortunately...
– I understand. Please accept it with Valencia. I’ll be there only after three.
– Alright. Good luck, – the administrator wished me.
– Thanks, – I replied and hung up.
I took a taxi to the courthouse. My lawyer, who had promised to help as much as he could, was already waiting for me there.
– Good afternoon, Mr. Sergio.
– Good afternoon, Ms. Serafima. You look so pale. Are you feeling alright?
– Yes, I’m fine. It’s just that so much has happened all at once...
– I understand. Don’t worry. Everything will be okay.
– I don’t believe that, – I shook my head.
– Hey! – A painfully familiar voice sounded behind me.
– You? – I turned around. – What are you doing here? How dare you show up? Come to hurt me even more? Or did you find the money you stole from me?
– I came to support you. And... I’ve missed you, – Arthur took a step toward me.
– You think I’ll believe you after everything you’ve done?
– No, – he shook his head. – But let me...
– I won’t let you. Leave. Or I’ll have you prosecuted!
– No, – he said firmly. – You can’t prove anything, – he whispered. – I’m sorry again, – he touched my hand, sending a shiver through my body. – But it had to be this way. In time, you’ll understand. Forgive me, – he clenched his fists until they cracked, turned sharply, and walked away.
– I don’t need your apologies! – I shouted after him, wiping away unbidden tears.
– Serafima, it’s time. The hearing is starting, – my lawyer called to me.
– Yes, let’s go, – I sighed, casting one last glance at Arthur’s retreating figure. My heart ached unbearably.
I followed the lawyer. The hearing passed in a haze. Sergio did an excellent job. I barely spoke. He took the lead, submitting a statement that my account had been hacked by fraudsters who took out the loan in my name.
The judge, a tall, thin man in a blue robe, nodded sympathetically and took notes. In the end, he decided to postpone the hearing for a week to investigate the fraud claim.
My hopes that this would be the end of it were dashed. I wasn’t sure I could survive another hearing.
The next day, when I arrived at work, I saw all my employees standing aside while the entrance doors were sealed, with a police officer stationed there.
– What’s going on here? – I asked him.
– Court order. The salon is sealed until all circumstances are clarified.
– But you have no right. The case is still ongoing.
– Unfortunately, ma’am, it’s precisely during the investigation that the salon has been closed. If everything is resolved in your favor, the seals will be removed. For now, you’d better leave and not interfere with our work.
– Serafima, what’s happening? – Santiago approached me. – Is this because of Alexandra?
– No, – I shook my head. – It’s Arthur.
– Arthur? – Santo looked surprised. – But what did he do?
– It’s a long story, – I brushed it off.
– Well, judging by everything, we’ve got time. And know this: we won’t abandon you. We all love and support you, right, everyone? – He turned to the rest of the colleagues standing under a tree.
– Absolutely, – they nodded in unison.
– And you know what, – Santo suddenly rubbed his hands together. – There’s a great restaurant nearby. It’s usually empty in the mornings. Let’s go there, and you can tell us what’s been going on. You’ve been out of sorts for a week, and now this.
I didn’t really want to talk about my troubles and problems at work. I wasn’t used to complaining to anyone. But Santiago was right. I owed them an explanation. After all, in a week, they might be working under someone else entirely. They deserved to know.
– Well, since they won’t let us into work anyway, let’s go to the café, – I gave in.
– Great. Colleagues, we’re heading to ‘Saturn’! – Santo exclaimed and offered me his arm. – May I?
– Of course, – I smiled.
Santiago was the only man in our predominantly female team. Always attentive and polite. Someone would be very lucky to become his wife. I, however, never saw him in that light. He was a good friend to me. And, it seemed, not just to me, but to the other girls as well.
***
We settled into a corner on soft couches, ordering coffee and pastries. I don’t know what drove me at that moment, but perhaps the weight of the burden that had fallen on me could no longer be contained inside and was bursting to come out.
I needed to share with someone, to pour my heart out. I told my team everything. Everything as it was. And finally, I breathed a sigh of relief. It felt as if a weight had been lifted from my soul.
Everyone was saddened at first, of course. They started offering words of support, one after another. I realized that we weren’t just a good team. We were an amazing, genuine, and close-knit group. Santo assured me that everything would work out and that no one would take my position as leader away from me... I could only nod awkwardly. I never imagined I’d find so much warmth and sincerity here. The girls convinced me that I’d been cooped up at home and work for too long and suggested we unwind at a club.
– Serafima, – Valencia urged me, – you desperately need a reset right now. You need to relax, to disconnect from all your problems for at least an hour. Come with us tomorrow. They’re promising a fun program and a foam party. It’ll be a blast!
– She’s right, – Mariella chimed in, – come with us! When was the last time you had a night out?
– I can’t remember, – I replied thoughtfully.
– Then that means never, – she concluded. – So, it’s settled. Tomorrow at eight in the evening, outside the ‘Fiery Panther’ club.
– Are there even fiery panthers? – I asked, surprised.
– Probably, – she shrugged. – I’ve never seen those animals. So, tomorrow at eight?
– Tomorrow at eight, – I gave in.
– Perfect. Just make sure you pick out something to wear, – Mariella chirped, – a shorter skirt, brighter makeup.
– Alright, alright, – I smiled.
– Smiling suits you so well, – Santo winked at me. – By the way, ladies, don’t you need a bodyguard for tomorrow?
– Santo! Come on! It’s supposed to be a girls’ night out, – Valencia protested.
– I’m not against having that kind of protection, – Laura smiled flirtatiously and glanced at Santo, who looked away and turned to me.
– Serafima?
– I think if we’re going as a whole team, we should take Santiago too. What do you think, girls?
– Of course! – exclaimed Juliana, our hairstylist. – Let’s take him!
– Then it’s settled. Tomorrow at eight outside the nightclub, – Santo summed up.
The next day, I didn’t wake up until closer to noon. My body had shut down from all the stress and decided to catch up on sleep.
I spent the rest of the day tidying up and getting ready for the club outing.
Despite the girls’ requests, I kept my makeup subtle but a bit bolder than usual, adding a touch of gold glitter to my eyeshadow. From my closet, I picked out a short turquoise dress that hugged my figure and slipped on black high-platform sandals.
I twirled in front of the mirror. Not bad, I thought. I let my hair down, styling it in loose waves over my shoulders, securing it lightly with mousse. Then I called a taxi and headed to the club.
The girls were already gathered, laughing and chatting about the latest gossip.
– Good evening! – I approached them.
– Good evening! – The girls looked me over appraisingly. – You look amazing.
– Thanks, girls. And let’s switch to first names. It feels awkward if you keep using formal address in a club. We’re all around the same age, after all.
– As you wish, – Valencia smiled at me. – It does feel better this way.
– Ladies, hey there! – Santo strode up to us with a wide step. He hadn’t changed his signature style, dressed all in white again.
– Hey! – I turned to him.
– Wow! – he exhaled. – Serafima, you look stunning. Please, – he offered me his arm.
The girls giggled.
– So that’s who you’re planning to guard, – Mariella teased.
– Ladies, I love all of you, – Santo laughed. – But our lovely Serafima needs support right now.
– Sure, of course, – the girl nodded.
We entered the club as a lively, noisy group.
The massive hall had tables and soft couches lining both sides, with a dance floor set up in the center. The club was just getting started. Musicians were tuning their instruments, colorful beams of light danced across the room, and the bartender greeted everyone who approached with a friendly smile.
– Ladies, I’ll grab some cocktails, – Santiago helped me settle onto a couch. – They’re absolutely amazing here.
That evening truly helped me unwind and take my mind off things. I was incredibly grateful to my colleagues for it.
The following days dragged on with routine. I worked a lot from home, handled orders, and researched articles on navigating crisis situations.
Friday crept up unnoticed.
I went to the hearing feeling completely calm and prepared for any outcome. I tried to stay positive, holding onto hope until the very end. But my hopes were not meant to be fulfilled.
The verdict stated that no evidence of fraud was found. The witness we named, Arthur Alre, had never lived at the provided address and wasn’t even registered in the city. All my requests were denied, and the decision was made to transfer ownership of my salon to the bank.
– I’m so sorry, ma’am, but there’s nothing more we can do, – my lawyer patted my shoulder sympathetically and left the courtroom.
I followed behind.
The entire salon team was waiting for me outside.
– So, did they let you keep the salon?
– No, – I shook my head. – The salon now belongs to the bank. I’m sorry, everyone. Forgive me, but I can’t talk right now.
– Serafima, we’ll keep fighting, – Santiago called after me.
– It’s pointless, – I muttered and walked away.
I was already in my neighborhood when two fire trucks, a police car, and an ambulance sped past me with sirens blaring.
A shocking scene awaited me in my own courtyard, where they were all battling a fire raging through the windows of my apartment and the one next to it.
I stood frozen across from the entrance, stunned and struck by yet another blow.
– Fima, dear, what a tragedy, – Aunt Nina from the third floor approached me.
– What happened? – I asked, realizing I now truly had nothing left. Nothing at all.
– Matviivna either forgot to turn off her iron before heading to the market or something else, but it flared up badly. They say your place took a heavy hit. Don’t lose heart, child. You can stay with me while you get repairs done...
– Thank you, Aunt Nina, but I won’t stay here any longer. There’s nothing left for me in this city.
– What are you saying, child! You’re still young. Beautiful. Everything will work out.
– Maybe, but not here. This city has caused me too much pain.
– Do you need a doctor? – my neighbor showed unexpected concern. – There’s a medical team on standby...
– I’m afraid even they can’t help me.
I took one last look at the windows of my former apartment, where flames devoured my past life, and walked away from the courtyard.
I felt a quiet relief that, when leaving for the court hearing, I’d dressed comfortably—gray jeans and a green cotton shirt, with sneakers on my feet. In my fabric backpack, I’d tossed my documents, makeup bag, wallet with all my savings and cards, smartphone, and headphones.
Well, I definitely had enough money for a one-way ticket, and I’d figure things out from there. It was time to start a new life. As far away from this city as possible, maybe even this country.
I vaguely remember how I got to the train station; I think a taxi took me. On shaky legs, I made it to the ticket counter, bought a ticket, found my train, and climbed onto the top bunk.
The train started moving gently, carrying me away from this city.