The husband laughed at his wife's writing talent, convincing her that she was loser & left her soon

can one start life a new at the age of 33 this question had been haunting Amanda ever since her now ex-husband declared his intention to divorce his words were a real blow when she sensed his waning affection Amanda believed that a decade of marriage naturally cooled passion and romance and she believed that love evolved into respect tenderness and habit but Peter didn't see it that way it was a regular evening as usual Amanda was waiting for her husband from work she had cooked his favorite soup boiled potatoes and cleaned their apartment she loved being a

housewife taking care of her spouse and creating a comfortable home plus she had time for her favorite hobby reading and writing detective stories but she never shared her writings thinking that no one else would find them interesting once she show Peter one of her stories and he laughed you think you're a writer my Agatha Christie he jokingly said if you enjoy it keep going but remember not everyone is destined to be a great writer Amanda clearly understood that she even laughed at herself after all her husband is a connoisseur of classical literature and studies works

of ancient Greek and European philosophers he surely knows what is worthy of attention and what is not not Amanda persisted in her writing despite perceiving flaws in her work like weak dialogues poorly spun Intrigue and overtly obvious criminals yet an unparalleled pleasure was derived from her work progress she immersed herself in the text lived the described events and couldn't stop her writing hobby didn't interfere with her primary responsibilities recognized as an excellent home maker by both Peter and his mother Suzanne Amanda excelled in her domestic duties Suzanne who tasted Amanda's dishes with the scrutiny of

a Master Chef and instantly spotted any disarray seemed as if she might arrive with white gloves to check for dust on the bookshelves yet Amanda was confident that Suzanne would find nothing to criticize as she maintained the house to be cleaner than an operating room Amanda's life was serene devoid of strong emotions or shocks it seemed to be continuing smoothly until Peter expressed his desire for Freedom this evening Upon returning from work he washed his hands and entered the kitchen a typical routine Amanda served Peter a plate of soup and sat across from him after

eating two spoonfuls Peter pushed the plate away and said Amanda we need to talk I've been avoiding this conversation but I can't go on like this I want us to get divorced Amanda thought she might have misunderstood are you joking she asked quietly Peter shook his head in response he stood up and began to Pace the spacious kitchen I really can't do it it's the same thing every day you're not evolving you know you've stopped in your development Peter emphasized the last phrase and Amanda suddenly realized that he had already rehearsed this monologue in his

head setting the emphasis in advance he always did so before meeting with business partners or going to his bosses Peter continued I'm not satisfied with this you're only interested in cooking and cleaning you don't even leave the house and I I need something else I want to be thrilled you know I want to see my wife as a companion not just a housewife but we had an agreement once you said yourself that you didn't want me to work Amanda timidly objected that conversation had indeed happened they got married soon after Amanda graduated from the college

and received a diploma as a language teacher she passionately dreamed of working in a school loved children and enjoyed talking to them encouraging them not just to memorize the material but to think and reason Peter was just starting to work at his firm and he was earning quite well before their wedding he stated that a wife should be The Keeper of the home and not work as much as her husband I love you because you're calm sweet cozy if you become a teacher you'll turn into a mean woman who doesn't have time for the house

and her husband Amanda why don't you stay home and I'll bring you money at least until I'm back on my feet and then we'll see I owe you a mammoth you owe me a hearth and Amanda agreed she was deeply in love with him and would have accepted anything Peter offered at times she regretted not taking a job at the school where she interned as there was an open position but she had listened to Peter and followed his advice now it turns out I shouldn't have left my job how can one understand these men she

said to Peter Amanda that was a long time ago now you've changed there's nothing to discuss with you and your little writings you just sit there and invent stories no one wants to hear you should have a blog or an Instagram page but no you don't even do that anyway it doesn't matter what matters is that we're strangers we don't even have children that's why why I've decided we should get a divorce and me Amanda asked and looked at her husband's face he was handsome when they were first married with a chiseled face and piercing

gray eyes he's still handsome now albeit heavier which suits him his hair wasn't as thick though Peter approached Amanda and looked down at her she felt like a little girl being chastised by her parents for something she didn't do I've made my decision if you don't agree to a divorce we'll settle it in court Amanda trembled shivering uncontrollably as if caught in an icy wind Peter wrinkled his nose don't start a scene it's decided I won't change my decision we must each go our separate ways without regret or reminiscing about the past he walked out

of the kitchen leaving her alone she heard him unfold the couch in the living room she didn't know how long she sat there just staring at one point in front of her then she got up poured the leftover soup into the sink and washed her plate maybe he'll change his mind tomorrow we've been together for 10 years it's not meaningless he will surely reconsider Amanda thought as she laid in the now cold an empty marital bed however the next day brought no change Peter left early for work leaving Amanda alone she busied herself by tidying

the apartment washing the floors and preparing dough for pies she longed for distraction anything to avoid thinking about the previous day's conversation despite her efforts she couldn't stop thinking and decided to call her mother-in-law she hoped she could influence Peter as suzan often praised Amanda as a wonderful wife an excellent housewife moreover Amanda had no one else to turn to she had no friends her social life diminished after her wedding the only remaining interactions were birthday or New Year's greetings on social media it was possible to call her mom but she was too preoccupied with

her life she had recently married for the third time Sonora gave birth to her daughter early she was only 16 years old the school romance ended sadly the guy left Sonora after learning about the pregnancy and she hid her belly from her parents almost until the seventh month of course Sonora didn't need a baby at such an age and Amanda's upbringing was handled by her grandmother anyway the first person Amanda shared the bad news with was her mother-in-law Amanda what happened she asked calmly and Amanda decided that Peter had not told his mother about his

decision Peter said he wants a divorce Amanda's eyes brimmed with tears and I I don't know what to do Suzanne fell silent before saying I know he's been wanting to tell you for a long time he just didn't have the courage both women fell silent Amanda felt as though her heart had grown too large for her chest and was about to shatter but what did I do wrong why Amanda a woman should be not only a home maker but also a companion remember how I've told you this repeatedly Amanda couldn't recall such conversations with her

mother-in-law but she decided not to argue I fully understand him and support his decision Suzanne continued although there's something you don't know two things actually it's better if you're aware first Peter wants kids and I want grandchildren you're already 33 you've been delaying this decision too long any wise woman would understand that every man needs an heir Amanda had never become a mother and it troubled her for the first 3 years they tried for a baby but pregnancy eluded them the doctors were equally baffled both spouses were healthy but tests continually yielded negative results but

tests continually yielded negative results much to Amanda's despair when Amanda turned 27 Peter suggested giving up on having a child if it's not happening it's not meant to be he told her calmly perhaps it's better to live for ourselves after all children bring headaches screams diapers and illnesses Amanda thought her husband had accepted the situation but now she discovered he too had dreams of Parenthood Suzanne continued there's another crucial matter I don't want to upset you more but it's best to clear everything up Peter has been seeing another woman for quite some time he introduced

her to me and now she's carrying my son's baby Peter being a man of integrity cannot live in two families believe me this decision wasn't easy for him either tears streamed down Amanda's face it turns out that all this time I was just a waste of an element in this Mosaic she thought bitterly Amanda you have to accept it Suzanne's voice lacked sympathy let Peter go you'll meet your destiny you're still very young Amanda and you have to accept it and move on thank you Amanda interrupted her mother-in-law and hung up accept it and move

on easy for her to say I'm I'm already 33 I have no looks no profession no savings what do I do where do I go Amanda had no answers in the evening Peter returned home in High Spirits Amanda wished he could at least Fain sadness but his Joy at impending Freedom was evident without even removing his coat or shoes Peter broached the topic of dividing their assets and Commander we need to resolve some legal issues I don't want to delay the woman was frightened by his words she had hoped that Peter an honest man wouldn't

leave her with nothing she had made a mistake once the apartment she lived with her husband was registered under his mother's name the money for the down payment on the mortgage was given by Amanda's mother and Suzanne at that time Peter had convinced her that the apartment should be registered under his mother's name and Amanda didn't argue now it seemed that the apartment wasn't considered jointly acquired property Peter explained this to Amanda with a faint half smile so I thought we should do the right thing legally the apartment stays with my mother I hope you

won't claim it in court but I'm ready to pay you the amount that your relatives gave you Amanda wondered where she should go perhaps to her mother's place but her mother was unlikely to welcome her with open arms Sonora was now happily living with her new husband who was 12 years younger and worked as a courier Amanda didn't know much about him only that he was exceptionally handsome don't look at me like that I'm not a monster I've thought of everything I'll leave you our house in the village it's not bad your money should be

enough repairs Peter said I have to go to the country Amanda recalled the house Peter had mentioned they had purchased it the summer before last the lot was inexpensive and they intended to build a cottage for summer vacations but to live there permanently the house had a furnace so Amanda knew she wouldn't freeze in winter but moving from a comfortable City Apartment at this place was a crazy thing Peter do you realize what you're proposing Amanda groaned if you don't like it sell the lot and buy something else Amanda you're an adult I can't keep

dealing with you forever it's time to mature Peter responded I won't be home tonight think about how you'll move and what you'll take we're going to sign the divorce papers next week don't do anything rash before she could object Peter hurriedly left the apartment Amanda's mother took the news of the divorce in stride it even seemed that she was uninterested in her daughter's life at all the air is fresh the produce is good maybe you'll invite Dan and me over she suggested when Amanda called to tell her about the impending move I will Amanda promised

thanks Mom you're welcome doll bye that was all the conversation Amanda disliked recalling the following weeks the divorce was Swift she had thought she might die of a broken heart after leaving the signing all the papers she had thought she might die of a broken heart after leaving and the signing of all the papers but that didn't happen Peter bid her farewell got into his car and drove off into his new free prosperous and happy life meanwhile she sat on a bench clutching the paper that marked the end of the marriage Amanda thought about Peter's

mistress she had already discovered who she was Peter's colleague whom Amanda occasionally spoke to told her the truth it appeared that Peter had started an affair with a new company employee about a year ago her name was Gina and she was only 23 years old Amanda found her social media page and started to scrutinize she's attractive no doubt Amanda thought bitterly when she saw photos of her competitor at 33 Amanda was starting to notice signs of aging in her reflection wrinkles the first strands of gray hair and a slightly less defined facial Contour Gina on

the other hand was stunning she wasn't shy about sharing photos with Peter and Amanda spent hours torturing herself by looking at them 3 weeks post divorce Amanda arrived at her new home Peter had been generous enough to help with the move hiring a small truck and letting Amanda keep the kitchen appliances and washing machine the modern appliances looked improper against the backdrop of the old furniture worn out walls and the shabby carpet Amanda felt like an alien in this house which felt uninhabitable she questioned her ability to survive especially in such conditions she felt an

overwhelming urge to lie down on the couch and never get up however after the movers left she wandered around the house gauging the extent of the Decay it was evident that the house needed a major overhaul despite it being warm May the house was cold damp and carried an unfamiliar smell akin to that of mushrooms after examining her new possession Amanda slumped into the armchair covered her face with with her hands and cried she felt lonely abandoned by the only person she had trusted and loved suddenly she heard a soft knock on the door startled

she wondered who could it be had she unpaid the movers but she had counted the bills multiple times before getting them Amanda wiped her eyes with her t-shirt's edge and listened again to the repeated knocking Rising she approached the door and asked who's there your neighbor open up a raspy male voice answered let's get acquainted Amanda tucked a loose strand behind her ear and opened the door standing on the threshold was an elderly man dressed in a large knit gray sweater his face was framed by a Long White Beard and bushy mustach he squinted at

Amanda and smiled revealing strong white teeth I live next door you can call me Mr O'Reilly the elderly man said extending his hand yellow spots marked his fingers leading Amanda to think he must smoke strong cigarettes Amanda she responded shaking his rough calloused hand how long are you going to stay with us Mr O'Reilly inquired forever Amanda choked out hastily wiping away unsolicited tears I'm I'm going to live here from now on Amanda felt like collapsing onto the floor and crying Mr O'Reilly looked at her in Surprise why are you so sad it's good here

the air is fresh and the food is good Amanda recalled her mother's recent words and sighed I've never lived in the village she suddenly confessed I my husband she broke down unable to contain her emotions Mr O'Reilly paused looking at her in Surprise then placed a comforting hand on her shoulder don't cry people live here and don't complain you'll get used to it Amanda hesitated why don't you come in let's have some tea I have a cattle Somewhere In A Box Mr O'Reilly smiled I'll pass on the treat you should come to us instead my

wife has been baking pie all morning we can chat don't be shy in this Village we visit each other whenever we want we also help each other out the idea of trying the pies appealed to Amanda she suddenly realized she was incredibly hungry when had she last eaten it seemed like yesterday morning and even then she hadn't been able to swallow a single bite really may I of course you must Mr O'Reilly nodded with a smile our house is just next to yours clean up calm down a bit and come over my wife will be

happy our children don't visit often and she misses having young ones around I'm not young I'm 33 years old Amanda replied with a hint of a smile I'm 83 Mr O'Reilly stroked his beard to me you're still a child he turned and headed for the gate Amanda looked at him in Surprise 83 years old she exclaimed she would have guessed he was no older than 65 she quickly washed her face with water combed her hair and tied it into a ponytail with no mirror in the house she resorted to using her powder compact her face

was puffy and her eyes were red yeah pretty girl she whispered to herself The Neighbors welcomed her warmly you're so thin poor thing Mr O'Reilly's wife said with a sympathetic look at Amanda you probably didn't eat properly in the city our daughter is the same subsists on cabbage leaves only you'll meet her when she returns Amanda enjoyed eating pies lean Berry jam and homemade flavored cookies the new acquaintances asked her about her past and how she ended up in the village initi Amanda was reluctant to share her sad story but gradually she opened up telling

them about Peter his mistress and their future child Mrs O'Reilly listened attentively to Amanda looking at her with genuine sympathy Amanda realized that her own mother had never shown her such attention often leaving her to handle school and college problems alone when the story was finished Mrs O'Reilly placed a warm hand on Amanda's pal and met her gaze Amanda expected Mrs Riley to deliver some profound wisdom that would instantly ease her pain like in movies or romance novels where an older woman imparts life lessons to a younger one well forget that jerk he was your

husband and now he's gone Mrs O'Reilly suddenly blurted out Amanda laughed nervously we were together for 10 years how can I just forget you won't forget immediately but eventually you will you'll even be glad you got divorced I also divorced my first husband when I was over 40 remember darling I remember I seized my opportunity then Mr O'Reilly wrapped an arm around his wife and kissed her cheek I recall you scolding me because I serenaded you under your windows and I haven't forgotten your serenades it was so embarrassing I couldn't look into my neighbor's eyes

can you believe it Amanda he sang so loudly that you could hear him in the next Village everyone laughed Amanda started to feel a little better comforted by the company of these kind people even when she was with Peter she was always on edge he would ridicule her in front of others criticizing her cooking skills and appearance insisting she needed to learn to take criticism now she felt at ease whether it was the sight of Mr and Mrs O'Reilly's love for each other or the feeling of home and warmth she didn't know but she felt

good what are you planning to do how will you live Mrs O'Reilly suddenly asked I don't know yet I don't know how to do anything I graduated from college a long time ago and haven't worked a day since do you know where I could find a teacher position Amanda responded I don't even know there's a school in the neighboring Village our kids go there but they don't need anyone a new teacher just started Mrs oy hesitated to the farm maybe Mr O'Reilly suggested what's she going to do on a farm she's a city girl Mrs

O'Reilly appraised Amanda what kind of farm we have a good Farm about 3 km away aindra runs it she is an incredible woman she started her business from scratch half the village works for her now Mrs O'Reilly explained Mr O'Reilly smiled his face beaming with pride for the businesswoman are there any vacancies on the farm Amanda asked hopefully there are always opportunities replied Mrs O'Reilly you should go see Kendra she might have advice for you she recently got married at 45 to a vet he's a good man goodlook and hardworking there was a City Slicker

trying to caught Kendra but she brushed him off Amanda tried to picture Kendra Smith for some reason she imagined a full figured woman with bright blue eyeshadow well groomed eyebrows raised in Perpetual surprise she even envisaged her dressed in a tweed jacket and a kneelength skirt you should definitely go it doesn't cost anything to ask Mr O'Reilly suggested she might have something for you don't be scared she's a wonderful woman half an hour later Amanda left for her new home Mrs O'Reilly handed her a bag of pies and reminded her to visit often and ask

me if you need anything I'll help you settle in and I can ask my husband for assistance don't be shy despite his age he still lifts a weight every morning Mrs O'Reilly was clearly proud of her husband making Amanda feel a bit lonely everyone seemed to have someone her mom had Dan Peter had his beautiful Gina and even Kendra Smith had found a spouse despite her age but Amanda was alone at home Amanda meticulously cleaned the old leather sofa and arranged her bedding she was certain she wouldn't be able to sleep in such unfamiliar surroundings

in situations like this she often found herself dreaming up new story lines a murder on the farm everyone is a suspect Amanda pondered why not it's an under represented theme after imagining some twists and turns for her potential plot she fell into a deep sleep the next day Amanda resolved to visit the farm first thing in the morning to meet the famed Kendra Smith she woke up at 6 struck by the unfamiliar quietness the usual city noise was absent replaced by distant voices and the crowing of roosters surprisingly refreshed she stretched feeling ready for her

new life she could only hope that her job would be available Peter had deposited a small sum into her account but it wouldn't last more than 6 months Amanda didn't want to touch this money preferring to save it for a rainy day but that day hadn't come yet after quickly eating a cookie and sipping some mineral water Amanda washed her face and headed to her interview the farm was only 3 km from the village Amanda strolled along the road savoring the fresh air and light Breeze she passed a field sewn with sunflowers that hadn't bloomed

yet and imagined how enchanting it would be in July finding the farm was easy the first thing she noticed was a red brick bar despite the unfamiliar odor she admired the structure and quickened her Pace the administration building was modest consisting of just three rooms a semblance of a Lobby in the hall sat a young girl behind a desk typing on a computer she seemed fresh out of high school and was too engrossed in her screen to notice Amanda hello Amanda said cautiously startled the girl tore her gaze from the monitor oh I'm sorry I

didn't notice you Mrs Smith mentioned that I've been placing commas in correctly so I'm struggling to find all my Errors By the way I'm Mia the secretary the girl said Pride evident in her voice Amanda smiled I'm here for a job opportunity Mrs Smith was recommended that's great she always conducts the interviews herself please have a seat I'll check if she's available Mia stood up adjusted her short skirt and knocked on a door adorned with the name plate of the farm owner we have an applicant may she come in Sure Mia looked at Amanda then

opened the door hospit come in Good Luck Amanda felt her anxiety Rising her hands grew cold and clammy a lump formed in her throat she swallowed then walked on shaky legs into the office what can she do what does she know teach language and literature to cows and chickens as Amanda passed Mia the girl gave her a comforting smile and whispered just don't be afraid her words didn't exactly Inspire confidence in Amanda but she had no choice entering the office she found it plainly decorated shelves with folders along the walls and a table in the

middle seated behind the desk was a pretty woman who looked nothing like the image Amanda had conjured up the day before Kendra Smith was dressed in a white shirt a thin chain around her neck and sported a modern haircut with strands framing her face she gestured to her chair by the door have a seat let's talk Amanda obediently sat her Palms folded in her lap her back straight as I understand it you're applying for the milk position that's wonderful we're expanding production and we're short staffed let's start with the conditions I'm sorry Amanda interrupted her

instantly blushing with embarrassment I'm not here for the milkmaid position are you a zoo technician Kendra raised an eyebrow in surprise I don't recall any other openings no I Amanda stammered wishing she had prepared a speech in advance like Peter improvisation was not her strong suit I just came here to see if there's any work for me Kendra tapped her pencil on the table I apologize I forgot to ask your name Mia always forgets to introduce visitors she smiled Amanda I recently moved to the Village from the city for family reasons Amanda explained Kendra nodded

encouraging her to continue I'm currently unemployed I graduated from the college 10 years ago as a language teacher I didn't work after the wedding I stayed at home and now I'm divorced Amanda didn't want to be pitted but there was no pity in Kendra's eyes she was focused on her twirling a pencil in her hands I see so you have no work experience you have a liberal arts education and you've come to us Kendra clarified I'm sorry really Amanda jumped up that was stupid I'm sorry to bother you she moved toward the door wait Amanda

I haven't told you anything yet sit down I need to think Amanda returned to her seat Kendra leaned back in her chair I've already said we need labor and for the most part that's true as for administrative staff I like to keep it to a minimum just me and Mia but I've been considering hiring another secretary Mia is a good girl but she's not up to all the tasks yet sometimes she brings documents with mistakes I want to hire a tutor for her but I don't want to fire her I see that she has has

potential and the numbers of documents is growing she just can't cope physically how would you feel about becoming an assistant secretary it won't be easy as you'll technically be under a very young girl I'm ready Amanda almost shouted Kendra laughed I can see that and it's fine start part time and we'll see how things work out are you ready the pay won't be much but our employees can take a certain amount of free products milk meat eggs cheese Amanda nodded leaving the office Amanda smiled blissfully one less problem I had a job not in my

field but a job what did Mrs Smith say Mia asked with glowing eyes of curiosity she's hired me as a deputy secretary Amanda replied yay Mia exclaimed jumping from her chair I'm going to have a deputy that is great we'll work together why don't I show you everything here Mia leapt from behind her desk and opened the boss's door without knocking can I give the new girl a tour only ensure the documents are on my desk by evening Kendra replied they will be on the desk tonight Mia nodded the girl gave amander a tour introducing

her to the staff she chatted constantly displaying her enthusiasm for her work we have a state-of-the-art organization here better than in Europe that's what Mrs Smith's husband says he researches how and where they work then implements those strategies here with even built a cheese factory and plan to start producing new types of cheese Amanda listened attentively to Mia despite her scattered storytelling jumping from one topic to another it was evident she took pride in her work after bidding Mia farewell Amanda went home and shared the news with her neighbors Mrs and Mr O'Reilly who were

genuinely pleased for her and wished her good luck I told you Kendra Smith's a good woman just remember she's strict she could expel you for drunkenness and truancy there is a family living two houses down you'll get to know them both husband and wife drink there Kendra took them in out of pity they had a little girl and they had nothing to feed her she only asked them not to drink but they started drinking with the first paycheck so she kicked them out I felt sorry for the girl but not for them Amanda spent the

remainder of the day cleaning she discarded the old carpets swept and mopped the floor and hung cleaned curtains on the windows the house instantly felt more welcoming Amanda tried to avoid thinking about Peter but before going to sleep she checked his social media page he had posted new photos with his girlfriend they were at a restaurant Gina was wearing a beautiful sequin dress such a dress would look ridiculous on Amanda Amanda sighed and closed the browser there was no point dwelling on the past Peter had a new life now he's about to be a father

and I I need to adapt to my new circumstances Amanda remembered her grandmother's favorite parable about two frogs one frog trapped in a tub of milk gave up and drowned the other frog strove to escape even when it seemed hopeless she churned the milk into butter with help of her legs and escaped Amanda wanted to be like the second frog even if it seemed hopeless she would act according to her circumstances and see if she could churn her own butter she'd already found a job next she'd see what comes before bed she pondered the future

of her detective story suppose the protagonist is a farm owner framed for murder how would she clear her name could her competitors be involved the next day Amanda started her new job she quickly adapted to her new role the woman familiarized herself with the archive devising a system to easily locate necessary documents Amanda also enjoyed her job and conversing with Mia despite the girls's occasional inattentiveness and verbal blunders her enthusiasm and commitment to the Farm's well-being were contagious Amanda often visited different parts of the farm to understand its operations better she was Keen to learn

everything about the production process her busy schedule left little time to contemplate Peter at home she managed to write a few pages of her detective story on weekends she carried out minor house repairs painting walls removing old wallpaper and cleaning windows she planned more significant repairs for the future despite her fatigue Amanda noticed she looked healthier than before her complexion was fresher wrinkles smoothed and extra pounds melted away like ice cream in July Sun her hair even glistened and curled slightly as if she frequented a beauty salon Amanda attri attributed these changes to the country

air and soft well water one Saturday morning Amanda sat on the porch with tea and a book she had purchased new detective novels in town although she didn't have as much reading time as before her new life suited her well she read less but enjoyed it more from the corner of her eye Amanda spotted motion at the gate a little girl about 5 years old was standing by the fence biting her index fingernail while looking at Amanda hi Amanda greeted she hadn't seen this girl before even though she thought she already knew all the local

children the girl was quiet then removed her finger from her mouth shily waving and smiling what's your name Amanda asked Kelly the little girl replied do you want to visit Kelly nodded come on in the gate is open Amanda invited the girl Kelly hesitantly opened the gate and walked up The Path towards Amanda upon reaching the porch she stopped Amanda noticed she was staring at a plate of cookies as if Spellbound help yourself Amanda picked up the plate and offered it to Kelly the girl looked at her in disbelief then slowly reached out and took

one cookie immediately shoving it whole into her mouth you choke be careful Amanda laughed only then did she notice the girl's hair was Tangled and the there were dirty spots on her face her clothes were also in poor condition her t-shirt was in need of washing and her jean shorts had long since lost their appearance I won't choke the girl said can I have some more Amanda nodded Kelly took another cookie and hid it behind her back as if afraid Amanda would change her mind thank you the girl said quietly you're welcome who's your mom

where is she mommy's home and Daddy's home mommy's name is Christine and daddy's name is HH they're still asleep Amanda was surprised it's almost noon at this time almost no one in the village is still asleep how did the child manage to sneak out of the house perhaps I should take her back to her parents they might already be looking for her Amanda didn't have an opportunity to find out where the little girl lived oh Kelly hello Mr O'Reilly stood at the gate upon seeing the old man the girl smiled revealing a missing front tooth

and swiftly ran towards the fence with her arms spread wide Mr O'Reilly effortlessly lifted the girl into his arms so you've come to get acquainted Kelly nodded Mr O'Reilly then addressed Amanda I'll go feed Kelly join us for dinner this evening Amanda looked at Mr oidy in Surprise wondering about the girl's relationship with him and why hiden never mentioned her before she took a sip of her cooled tea and resumed her reading that evening Amanda discovered that Kelly was the daughter of a couple that Kendra had fired for alcoholism Christine and HH seemed normal Mrs

O'Reilly began HH went to the city for a few months to earn money started drinking there and eventually dragged Christine into it you know how women drink they drink to lessen the man's guilt and then they end up drinking themselves to death that's what happened to them the whole village feels sorry for Kelly her mother neglects her she rarely makes something to eat when they go on a bender Kelly stays with us we've written to child services but they don't care perhaps it's better to have parents than to be in an orphanage Amanda sighed she

felt a deep Pang of Sympathy for the little girl realizing her own life's difficulties paled in comparison there are practically none Mr O'Reilly replied she's starting school soon and no one is teaching her she's 6 years old and she can't read or write and Her speech is poor a Adrien could already read at that age do you remember honey Mrs O'Reilly nodded Adrien was her first son from her first marriage Mr O'Reilly regarded him as his own child and often boasted about Adrian's achievements Adrien had trained to be a physicist and was now a university

lecturer from that evening Amanda took an interest in little Kelly the girl began visiting her in the evenings and they would enjoy tea with candy and cookies during another trip to the city Amanda even brought her a doll KY was so Overjoyed that she almost cried it was the first time Amanda had seen a child cry from happiness it turned out that Kelly had almost no toys just an old plastic doll long missing its eyes and one hand that she had inherited from her mother Kelly indeed had difficulty speaking Amanda began to work with her

using skills she had learned at the college surprisingly the little girl was very talented she absorbed knowledge like a sponge soon she could write her name on a piece of paper and recite a couple of poems Kelly began spending increasing amounts of time at Amanda's place Amanda even set up a cozy sleeping area for on a folding chair purchased cheaply from a farm worker looking at Kelly Amanda longed for a child of her own she found that her maternal love was not wasted on Kelly at times she wished she could kidnap her from her parents

and keep her herself forever fate decided it all a fire broke out in the house where Kelly's parents Christine and HH lived the fire likely started from a lit cigarette dropped on the floor k Kell's parents perished in the fire but neighbors managed to rescue Kelly in time it was discovered that Kelly had no other relatives Amanda despaired will the girl end up in an orphanage Kendra aware of Amanda's unofficial guardianship over Kelly helped resolve the issue she assisted with the guardianship service and Amanda became Kelly's legal guardian at first it was difficult Kelly constant

L cried called for her parents and refused to eat Amanda even took her to a city psychologist but after a few months Kelly began to open up and smile more often she enjoyed playing with dolls and asked Amanda to read her stories at night she didn't call Amanda mom but the psychologist advised not to push it give her time to adapt she'll realize that you love her don't demand anything the child has suffered a terrible trauma he advised Amanda who heeded his counsel while Amanda was at work Mrs O'Reilly cared for Kelly in the evenings

they would go out to meet a weary amander returning from work each time upon seeing her foster mother Kelly would run to her bouncing joyfully with each step in these moments Amanda felt absolute happiness despite losing her husband and radically changing her life life she found joy in this girl she loved with all her heart perhaps her true happiness lay here who knows Amanda's grandmother always said that God works in mysterious ways often taking something away only to give something back in Amanda's case what she gained seemed far more significant than her lost relationship with

Peter her work was going well she had not only formed a friendship with Mia but also with Kendra with a salary increase she began saving for some Home Improvements she continued writing her novels hesitantly sharing them thinking that no one would be interested in her writings Peter neither wrote nor called her not even for her birthday while this saddened Amanda she chose not to dwell on it she spent her birthday with Kelly Mia Mr and Mrs O'Reilly Mrs O'Reilly baked a honey cake Mia gifted her a set of pretty dishes for the kitchen and Kelly

Handmade a card after blowing out the candles on the cake Amanda felt an unusual sense of Peace it was as though all life's puzzle pieces had finally fallen into place this was a feeling she had seldom experienced in her past with the party guests departed Amanda tucked Kelly into bed and retreated to the porch for some quiet reflection above her constellations sparkled brightly the breeze carried the sweet scent of wild flowers and hay and crickets serenaded from the grass she closed her eyes and made a wish for a man to enter her life someone she

could love sincerely someone who would love her and accept her along with Kelly as she looked up at the sky it seemed to her that the brightest star Winks at her knowingly the distant song of a Nightingale seemed to be a positive Omen a few days later Kelly fell sick the weather had been cold and Kelly had rushed out of the house in only a light jacket Amanda chided herself for not being more Vigilant Mrs O'Reilly tried to comfort her saying that all children fall ill and it's not the parents fault my throat hurts the

girl complained looking up at her foster mother it feels like a cat is scratching ing it with its claws can you stay with me she coughed to validate her words Amanda gently stroked the girl's head of course I'll stay with you at home sweetheart I just need to call work before the weekend Amanda brought her work home she had to complete some reports despite finishing the reports she encountered a problem with the internet connection which prevented her from submitting them she called the local internet provider and was informed that the connection would only be restored

in the evening in despair Amanda phoned Mia I spent the whole weekend on reports and Kelly is running a fever Amanda nearly wept I'll ask a neighbor to babysit and be right there with documents Amanda don't Mrs Smith is on her way from the city I'll call her and she'll take your documents on a flash drive Amanda hung up and turned on her laptop she quickly located the necessary documents and transferred them to a flash drive clutching the drive she ran to the gate just as Kendra's car rounded the corner after handing over the flash

drive with documents Amanda apologized to her boss for her absence Amanda it's all right kids get sick it's completely normal Kendra reassured her nothing terrible will happen during a couple of days of your absence Amanda spent the rest of the day caring for Kelly she read her fairy tales served her tea with rasbery Jam which Mrs O'Reilly brought and checked Kelly's temperature every half hour Kelly was coughing but felt okay and even asked to go for a walk by evening which Amanda firmly denied the next morning Amanda was awakened by a call from Kendra good

morning Amanda good morning is something wrong Amanda responded to which Kendra laughed no nothing happened happened thank you for the paperwork as always everything is done perfectly but I wanted to ask you something Amanda began to feel uneasy fearing she had made a mistake and would lose her job yes I'm listening she mumbled into the receiver you seem to have inadvertently saved not only the reports but also the detective book onto your thumb drive I found a document with just a number on it I opened it thinking it might contain additional report details suddenly Amanda

felt a chill she had forgotten to delete her detective novel from the flash drive she was sure she would be mocked as the village writer she remembered Peter's words not everyone can be a writer well it's just something I found on the internet you know there's a lot of stuff posted Amanda rambled Kendra interrupted her why nonsense I just wanted to know the author's name to find out more of their detective novels I finished reading it this morning I couldn't put it down Mia's reading it now and she likes it too do you have anything

else Amanda was speechless Peter was the only person who read her work because she was apprehensive about sharing it online Amanda what is it Kendra seemed taken aback by Amanda's silence did I ask something wrong no not at all Kendra stammered swallowing a lump that had suddenly formed in her throat she felt this whenever she was anxious during her time at the college she sometimes found herself speechless when faced with the sternest of teachers so do you have any more novels by this author or at least tell me his or her name I'll download it

myself Kendra I Amanda took a deep breath then blurted out I wrote it you did wow I'm really speechless do you have more well yeah I just don't show it to anyone you see my husband he says I mean he said I'm not very good at it my husband on the other hand loved your novel trust me he knows a lot about detective stories Kendra interrupted amander I insist you share your work if you're shy I won't tell anyone but it's really well written is the main character based on me she also owns a farm

and even looks similar Amanda blushed yes from you Kendra laughed I really liked it I'd be happy if you could email me your work just don't show it to anyone else Amanda whispered can my husband see see it Kendra asked okay he can Amanda sighed Amanda thought to herself I've embarrassed myself Kendra was probably just joking who could possibly like my talentless writing but there's nothing I can do I've already promised her my work Amanda sent two finished detective stories to her boss's email apologizing in advance for any disappointment a few days later Kelly fully

recovered and Amanda went to work upon arrival Mia greeted her with excitement you're a real writer no I just write for fun Amanda mumbled wishing she could disappear no way why didn't you tell anyone I was reading and I couldn't stop I even guessed who killed the man I immediately realized they were competitors and the investigator was so cunning he knew right away didn't he he he wanted the criminals to expose themselves the way he cornered them at the end was brilliant Mia rambled on while Amanda stared at the documents on her computer monitor trying

to focus does anyone really like what she writes it can't be Peter wouldn't cheat he knows literature very well in the evening Kendra returned from the city and summoned Amanda to her room Amanda have you considered publishing something let's give it a try Amanda protested no way the publishing house would laugh at me do you know how many manuscripts they receive daily and me with my little books you should give it a shot Kendra interrupted there's no harm in trying no I don't want to Amanda declined looking down I really don't you know amander I

can't force you but I believe that a person who hides their talents is committing an unforgivable sin if I had doubted myself I wouldn't own this Farm people laughed at me saying I was a woman entering business but look at the result we have jobs ad cheeses have won competitions and we Supply restaurants now go home your daughter must be waiting Amanda walked home leisurely enjoying the perfect weather as she passed the sunflower f she paused for a moment they always filled her with optimism what Amanda appreciated most about sunflowers was how they always turned

towards the sun people often abandon their dreams looking everywhere except where they want to go maybe I should heed Kendra's advice so what if I receive a negative review after everything I've been through recently a little criticism won't phase me after taking care of from Mrs O'Reilly Amanda took care of her daughter putting her to bed she then selected two of her favorite novels the first was recently completed and had been read by Mia and Kendra the second was written about 5 years ago inspired by a news item about a highly expensive stamp she began

imagining how a person intending to steal that stamp would behave the result was a captivating story about a protagonist who dedicates a lot of time devising the perfect stealing plan Amanda sent the manuscripts to two Publishers and went to bed however sleep eluded her as she contemplated her possibly presumptuous actions it was the long awaited weekend Mrs O'Reilly left early in the morning to see her son in the city she asked Amanda to check on Mr oilly mentioning his complaints about his heart and a persistent headache despite her concern Mrs O'Reilly had to leave for

her son adrianne's birthday Amanda agreed to help her weekend plans involved spending time with Kelly walking into the woods and doing crafts an activity Kelly loved they frequently spent their weekends searching for beautiful Twigs flowers and cones in the forest at noon Amanda visited Mr O'Reilly he appeared cheerful dismissing his wife's concerns as an exaggeration just a headache he grumbled B I'll rest watch TV and you can come over in the evening we'll have tea all three of us in the evening Mr O'Reilly's house was lit but when Amanda knocked she didn't hear the usual

sound of the man's footsteps is he sleeping Kelly asked I don't know sweetheart Amanda nodded letun knock loudly Kelly started pounding her fists against the door still there was no answer maybe he went out she suggested stay here dear Amanda instructed then she ran off the porch and peered through the master bedroom window the sight made her blood run cold Mr O'Reilly was lying on the floor unable to rise resembling an overturned Beetle Amanda hurried back to the door and pushed with all her strength but it wouldn't budge she rushed to the neighboring house where

Ferguson and Mandy lived they didn't interact often but they always exchanged pleasantries fortunately Fergus was in his vegetable garden Ferguson help something's wrong with Mr O'Reilly she cried without hesitation Ferguson rushed towards her asking what is it I knocked but he wouldn't open the door I looked through the bedroom window and he's lying there Amanda stammered and Mrs O'Reilly is not home Ferguson managed to open the door effortlessly upon entering Amanda found Mr O'Reilly lying on the floor with oddly cloudy and uncom comprehending eyes a tear streamed down his left cheek Amanda noticed the old

man's face had become strangely asymmetrical as if one side had been ironed flat his left cheek swelled with each breath resembling a billowing sail call an ambulance Amanda shouted after the ambulance arrived Amanda left Kelly with Mandy and Ferguson and she herself accompanied Mr O to the hospital in the emergency room a distraught Mrs O'Reilly was already waiting for them accompanied by a tall man around 40 years old Mrs O'Reilly I'm sorry I didn't follow I went out with Kelly for the day Amanda almost cried in despair feeling responsible for what had happened come on

if it wasn't for you he would have been lying there alone Mrs O'Reilly burst into tears burying her face into her son's chest Adrien the man introduced himself looking at Amanda Amanda the neighbor I've heard a lot about you Adrien nodded well all we can do is wait the doctor arrived an hour later with good news the stroke had likely happened just before Amanda's visit it's reversible I think he'll be on the men soon of course his age is a factor but as far as I understand there are no serious health problems and we have

done everything necessary said the doctor Mrs O'Reilly sighed loudly Adrien was still speaking with the doctor about something but Amanda couldn't hear him she held the Weeping Mrs O'Reilly and felt relieved that things could still turn around Mr O'Reilly remained in the hospital for almost a month Amanda visited him regularly Mrs O'Reilly stayed at her son's house in the city to be close to her husband when Mr and Mrs O'Reilly returned home Amanda immediately visited them with Kelly the only reminders of what had happened was slight weakness in Mr O'Reilly's left arm and an unsteady

gate however the doctors assured that these would improve over time Mr O'Reilly joked about his condition and chided his wife who tried to do everything for him I'm not helpless I can do it myself he grumbled but Amanda noticed the boundless warmth in his eyes when he looked at Mrs O'Reilly and felt a twinge of Envy she wished she had a man who would stay with her till her last days and look at her with the same affection even when she reached 60 70 80 years old 3 days after Mr O'Reilly was discharged Amanda was

returning from work as she approached her gate she noticed a stranger drawing closer she recognized Adrien standing with a bouquet of roses in his hands hello Amanda I completely forgot to thank you if it weren't for you my father might not be with us he handed the bouquet to her and smiled I've heard a lot about you you're a very good woman what am I good at Amanda side nothing remarkable not everyone could take in someone else's child Adrian said looking down at his feet clearly embarrassed and change her life like that that's why I

think you're good I've been dreaming of meeting you for a long time I think my mom secretly dreams that we will get married can you imagine Amanda laughed it's just she doesn't know me well come in I'll go get Kelly we can have tea I baked a cake yesterday using your mom's recipe by the way the evening turned out to be very pleasant Adrien discussed his work about students who don't want to grasp the basics of such a simple and intriguing science as quantum physics Kelly announced that she will definitely become a physicist when she

grows up Amanda was astonished by how a simple Village boy like Adrien was able to achieve such Heights in science she shared this sentiment with Adrian I've always loved physics despite being being a bully smoking since I was 10 and always getting into fights I never missed a physics or math class Adrien confessed it was late in the evening when Kelly went to bed Amanda walked Adrien to the gate he took her phone number and promised a call inviting her and her daughter to visit him in the city anytime to Amanda's surprise Adrien began to

call her almost daily initially she thought he was just being polite or showing gratitude but over time she realized that he genuinely liked her he started visiting his parents more often and even spent his vacation in the village something he had never done before Mrs O'Reilly joked behind his back oh Amanda before you know it he'll propose and you'll be my daughter-in-law and Kelly my granddaughter as the New Year approached Amanda received a letter from a publishing house she was too scared to open it for a few hours and finally asked Mia to read it

for her just tell me if I was rejected that's all okay I'll read out exactly what it says Mia said wriggling with impatience can I open it go ahead Amanda moved to the window watching large snowflakes fall she recalled a glass ball from her childhood a gift from her grandmother it enclosed a house with a snowman nearby when shaken tiny sparkling snowflakes would rise and slowly settle on The house's roof and the snowman's hat Amanda cherished this toy but unfortunately lost it during a move I should get something similar for Kelly she mused aloud Amanda

Amanda Mia shouted causing Amanda to jump what they want you to send your other works they're ready to publish your books are you kidding me Amanda raced to the computer scanning the Letter's text Mia was right oh my God how could this be she embraced Mia kissing her on the cheek they want to publish me what's going on Kendra peaked out from her office are you girls starting the New Year's celebration early Mrs Smith Amanda's books will be printed you can put them on the Shelf Mia exclaimed in excitement and joy a smile spread across

Kendra's face congratulations Amanda you didn't believe me but I was right I hope you'll give me your first autograph on New Year's Eve Adrien visited his parents Amanda and Kelly were invited as well the party was a success they decorated the Christmas tree in the yard and Kelly recited poems about Santa Claus and the snow Maiden when the Clock Struck midnight Adrien kissed Amanda directly on the lips leaving her stunned sorry I've wanted to do this for a long time he mumbled looking into her astonished eyes if you've wanted to do it for a long

time you could have tried sooner she laughed playfully punching him in the shoulder about time added Mr O'Reilly squinting slightly I thought you'd never muster up the courage 6 months passed Amanda's life continued as usual she still worked on the farm but Adrien was pushing for a move to the city he had officially proposed to her and she had accepted but she didn't want to rush things one Saturday morning as usual she woke up before Kelly to prepare breakfast suddenly she heard a car pull up Amanda looked out the window and was startled to see

Suzanne her former mother-in-law standing by the fence Suzanne was staring intently at the house as if trying to see through the window Amanda set aside the bowl in which she was whipping eggs and milk for an omelette wiped her hands on the towel hanging on the back of the chair and went to greet the unexpected guest surprisingly she felt calm with no lump in her throat cold hands or sweaty Palms Amanda approached the gate good morning Suzanne Amanda greeted respectfully hello Amanda I see you're settling in well I told you it would be beneficial Amanda

tried to recall when her mother-in-law had said something similar but she couldn't yes it's quite good here what led you here why don't you let me in Suzanne asked unexpectedly come in Amanda opened the door and gestured invitingly Suzanne walked past leaving a trail of expensive perfume in the kitchen Amanda poured her former mother-in-law some tea and sat down across from her Suzanne you didn't just come here for no reason did you Amanda decided to break the silence first not for no reason that's correct the woman sipped her tea and frowned I think it's time

for you and Peter to reunite what Amanda nearly dropped her Cup in Surprise what do you mean stop playing These Foolish Games Amanda things happen between adults I see what's happening with my son and his girlfriend what exactly Amanda inquired reaching for a poppy seed roll she's exploiting him using him Peter's lost weight become nervous you won't believe it he's taken to drinking it turns out she lied about being pregnant too she's caught the poor boy on this lie Suzanne lowered her voice and he often tells me that he regrets his decision about the divorce

but he doesn't dare to approach you himself so he sent his mother to negotiate Amanda raised an eyebrow it's not what you think Suzanne slammed her cup down on the table the Amber liquid splashed across the white tablecloth causing stains to spread he's in agony it's painful to watch him you you know Peter asked for a divorce and I didn't object it's been a long time I know everything I've done my research spoken to the locals while looking for your house I know you've taken in a foster child that's fine it's a problem that can

be solved what do you mean outrage began to simmer in Amanda's chest it's someone else's child and you know it well I hope you've had your fill of playing mom and are ready to come back you haven't succeeded as a specialist or as a mother try at least to succeed as a wife Peter is ready for your comeback go away Amanda stood up quickly looking down at her mother-in-law just leave or I can't be responsible for my actions Amanda I didn't think you are so foolish where else will you find a husband especially at 34

with another person's child in your arms I've heard she's the daughter of Alcoholics leave Amanda was struggling to control herself I will leave but know that you'll regret this Suzanne Rose majestically from the table stay in this filthy house then with that the woman left slamming the door behind her annoyed Amanda thought that she might have awakened Kelly sure enough the girl appeared in the kitchen door way who is it a bad woman not bad Amanda mused just not smart go wash your face sweetheart your favorite omelette is coming soon okay Mom Kelly headed towards

the sink leaving Amanda Frozen in her tracks tears welled up in her eyes it was the first time Kelly had called her mom Amanda knew that she would never give her child to anyone else she would soon be the wife of the best smartest man in the world and her books would be published as her grandmother used to say wishes do come true they always do the most important thing is to believe that they will