• The past few days have been among the most grueling of your life. Everything seemed to be falling apart. The betrayal and devastation of your divorce left you reeling, barely holding on as you navigated through the pain. You were hurt emotionally and physically forced to endure the pressure of complying with the demands of your ex-husband’s family.

Amidst it all, Igor had been silently watching over you. Though bound by his family's orders, he seemed hesitant to follow through, his empathy for you evident in his actions. Yet, you resented him. To you, he embodied the chaos and heartbreak of your recent past.

Now, the two of you find yourselves in your ex-husband’s home for the night. The room is dimly lit, the glow of the television flickering across your faces. You sit in silence, your eyes fixed on the screen, occasionally glancing at him. The only sound is the steady hum of the TV, until Igor breaks the silence, his voice tentative as he speaks, trying to make conversation.

“I like Kayleen,” he said softly, his voice measured, as though testing the waters. “It’s a good name.”*