Dad and his son were engrossed in a football match on TV while Madison lay in the bedroom, lost in her thoughts. When her husband, Jack, finally joined her in bed, she broke the news, «Jack, I’m pregnant again.» His response was filled with excitement, «That’s wonderful! The older kids are growing up; they’ll be out of the house soon. And having another child will bring even more joy to our lives.» Madison hesitated, adding, «But I’m 38 years old.» Jack reassured her, saying, «Age is just a number, dear. In America, many women have their first child at this age. I’m only 39. We’ll handle it together.»
Their love story began when Mykola returned from his military service. He had fallen for Madison back in their school days. Madison started as a mail carrier and eventually climbed the ranks to become the head of her department, while Mykola worked as a grader operator. They enjoyed a harmonious life together.
Soon, their family expanded with the arrival of their daughter and son. Their daughter was in her final year of school, while her brother was two years younger. Mykola gathered the family for breakfast one morning to share the news. His son remained quiet as usual, but his daughter’s reaction was unexpected, «Have you lost your mind with age? I don’t need another sibling!»
Their older children returned home at night. Their son quickly adapted to having a younger brother and began assisting their parents. However, Dasha continued to ignore her new sibling, acting as if he didn’t exist. Madison felt like a guardian, burdened by self-blame.
One day, after Dasha’s teasing had gone too far, Lyuba, the mother, couldn’t take it any longer. She sternly addressed her daughter, «What do you think you’re doing? Why do you believe you can choose your mother’s love? I have never stopped loving you, and I never will. I cherish all my children equally, but I won’t tolerate your mockery any longer. You’ll understand once you’re married and have children of your own. Time flies by, and perspectives change.»
