Marina tried not to think about prison. It was too painful. She turned the page in the album and saw a photo of her little boy, Ilya. She had raised him alone after getting out of prison. It was so hard. She worked as a cleaner, at a car wash, and sewed at night.
Now, as she thought about Ilya, she realized she’d spoiled him. She’d never said no to him, never complained about being tired. And now, he was ashamed of her.
“I get it,” Marina said, looking at Ilya’s picture on the wall. “I’ve spoiled you for 25 years, but this time, I’ll do what I think is right. Forgive me.”
She got up and took out her savings box. With her monthly salary, she had enough for a new outfit, a haircut, and a visit to the beauty salon.
At the registry office, Marina caused a stir. She always looked young for her age, and after the beauty salon, she looked even better.
The guests, especially the men, couldn’t help looking at the blonde in the beautiful blue dress. During the ceremony, Marina cried as she watched her son and his bride.
After the ceremony, Ilya came up to her. “So, you ignored what I said? I hope you’re not coming to the restaurant.”
“I won’t,” Marina said. “I’ve seen what I needed to.”
Just then, Vika came over. “Marina Anatolyevna, you look amazing! My parents want you to come to the restaurant with us.”
“Thanks, but it’s time for me to go,” Marina said.
“What do you mean? Ilya, what’s going on?” Vika asked, confused.
Ilya forced a smile. “Mom, come on. It’s my wedding. You can’t leave now.”
