— The woman who will soon bring a fresh start to our family is here! My mother-in-law and my husband’s pregnant mistress were there at the anniversary. When my hubby stood up and said something that made me shudder, the guests were shocked
Me 
I’m Anna, and I have a hard time explaining what happened to me that night. My husband Alex and I were walking home from a terrible trip to the clinic. I was told that my chances of becoming a mother were extremely slim. The world shrank to the doctor’s white coat and the cold chart on the wall. Alex sat next me, not moving, not making eye contact.
On the way home, there was a heavy silence between us. I tried not to scream when I saw the lights whiz past the window, but he only held the steering wheel and muttered, “Mother will tear us apart.” I was aware that he was right.
On his father’s birthday, I felt totally cut off from my own family for the first time. I sat at the big table with fifty people under the tablecloth, my smile frozen and my hands shivering.
His mother, Sofia, ruled the room like a queen at a ball. Her cold eyes went right through me. During the celebration, she raised her glass and uttered something that would always stick in my memory:
“It is expected of all the women here to have children and carry on the family tradition.” Finally, our Alex will have a child!
I was treated as if I didn’t exist by everyone. At the door was a young, pregnant woman who would eventually become the mother of his child. After giving her a tender embrace, Sofia joyfully introduced her to the guests:
“This is the individual who will give our family continuity.”
Alex got up and said something that made me shiver, shocking the guests.
“This is a misunderstanding,” Alex finally stated. He spoke in a firm voice, yet I shuddered. — That girl was someone I knew. But that was a long time before we were married. We haven’t spoken to each other since our split. I didn’t know she was pregnant. I just now found out about it. Moreover, this decision was not mine.
He looked at his mother:
— Mom, you went too far. You have no business putting on this spectacle. This is my life. Additionally, if you attempt to keep me away from Anna, you will fail.
I didn’t move. My heart was pounding and my ears were ringing with blood. Instead of shouting, I turned and made my way to the door.
My tears stung, but I held on. Outside, the air was cold and sharp. I took a few steps after hearing footsteps behind me.
— Anna! — Alex moved in front of me and replaced me. – Listen carefully. I didn’t know she was expecting a child. I also don’t know if it’s mine. I advised her to get a DNA test. If it turns out to be my child, I’ll take the blame. But that doesn’t change anything between us.
I said nothing. He took hold of my hands.
— I treasure you. Furthermore, it makes little difference if we can conceive or not. We are a family. I won’t let anyone destroy our belongings. Not even the past.
I looked into his eyes and for the first time that night I felt like I could still breathe.
