AMANDA
While looking at these photos, I realized that I can't figure this out without Adam, so I called him and asked him to come over.
- It's all because of that damn whiskey. - well, of course, it's easier to shift the blame onto alcohol than to admit that I can't let go of it. That I need it. I couldn't stay in the office, so I descend to the first floor, put the photos on the table, and head to the kitchen to make coffee. Or maybe another glass of whiskey. I'll decide on the spot. Whiskey turned out to be the quicker option, so I grab the bottle, sit at the table, and start flipping through the photos again.
- There must be some reasonable explanation for this. - what the hell could a reasonable explanation be when my parents were watching my every move? They seem like some kind of maniacs.
Thinking about my parents twists something inside me, as instead of dealing with their funeral, I'm trying to unravel a mystery from seven years ago.
But when I take a photo taken through the window of our house that night when I completely gave myself to Adam, my thoughts return to that moment.
7 years ago...
We lie naked in each other's arms, unable to say even a word. What happened changed our relationship forever. I genuinely rejoice that it was Adam who became my first husband, and when he pulls me closer and says:
- You are beautiful. - it feels like another orgasm runs through my body. I lift my hand with the ring he gave me and run it over his cheek. I see how the guy looks at my finger and realize that this is the thing I will always wear.
- I will never take it off. - I don't know if these words are necessary, but I want him to have no doubt that this part of his feelings will always be with me.
We fall asleep just before morning because we talked about us all night. But when the alarm rings at 7, I realize there are two hours left until my parents arrive.
- Adam, wake up. - I kiss him on the nose, causing him to scrunch his face adorably. He flips me onto himself and opens his eyes.
- Can I book you for every morning for the rest of my life? - his voice is still sleepy, and this makes a smile appear on my face.
- I'll think about it, but right now, it's better for you to go. I'm not ready to introduce you to my parents. - I kiss him on the lips and climb out of bed. By the time I have a shower and put on my pajamas, Adam has managed to wake up and dress.
- Will we see each other tonight? - he locks me in his arms again, which brings a strong desire not to let go.
- Of course. - I kiss him first and then walk him to the door. After the guy leaves, I go to the kitchen to make myself breakfast.
- Damn, I should have offered him too. - well, as always, smart ideas appear much later than needed. So, I prepare an omelet, and just as I sit down to eat breakfast, my parents arrive, along with another couple about their age.
- God, they brought friends too. - I try to quickly disappear from sight, but my dad's voice stops me:
- Amanda, good that you're not asleep. Meet Mr. Korniyov and his wife, Mrs. Svitlana. - The man looks about 50 years old, his wife appears younger, with dark hair and a very familiar gaze.
- Nice to meet you. - I smile at the guests and try to somehow evaporate from here.
- Amanda, we've heard so much about you. - Mr. Korniyov approaches me and kisses my hand. - Will you find time to have coffee with us? - but why is he so attached to me?
- She will gladly have coffee with us. Right, dear? - my dad's look makes it clear that refusing is not an option, so I have no choice but to agree.
- I'll just change. - Dad smiles at me and leads the guests to the kitchen. Only now do I notice my mom standing by the front door, too pale, too paralyzed. She looks at me in a way that makes my heart drop to my feet. I approach her and touch her shoulder, causing her body to jolt.
- Mom, are you okay? Did something happen? – she turns her face to me and starts to cry. I hug her for the first time in a long time because I have never seen her like this.
- Ami, forgive me. I love you so much. I'm sorry for everything. - I look at the woman who gave birth to me and don't understand what could have happened for her to apologize now? But before I can ask anything, she bypasses me and heads to the restroom, leaving me with no choice but to change and go out to the guests.
My memories are broken by voices at the front door. I know Adam must have arrived already, but I hear not just his voice. I decide not to guess and simply open the door. The scene outside does not cheer me up at all. Adam stands with his back to me, his whole body tense, and his hands clenched into white fists. Opposite him stands my parents' friend, whom I saw seven years ago but somehow remember well how strangely he behaved.