Valentina appeared a few days after purchasing the plot. Surprisingly cordial, with a smile on her face and bags full of food, she entered Victor and Maria’s apartment as if she had always supported their dreams.
— “This should be celebrated! What a joy that you finally have your own place,” — she said, as if she had never criticized their plans before.
Victor and Maria looked at each other in surprise. Not long ago, Valentina had scoffed at the idea of buying a plot of land, but now she was acting like the biggest enthusiast.
During tea, she asked about every detail: how many meters the plot was, how many rooms in the house, who the neighbors were.
— “Six acres? Great! Lots of space for a garden and… for guests” — she added significantly.
Maria felt a twinge of anxiety, but she remained silent.
First trip to the plot
The following Saturday, Valentina “accidentally” joined them. She immediately started handing out advice: where to put a table, where to plant flowers, where it would be best to build a nativity scene.
— “I could put a chair here and read” — she said half-jokingly, but her tone was quite serious.
Maria felt more and more clearly: these visits are just the beginning.
Ludmila joins the game
Soon after, Ludmila, Victor’s sister, called. Her voice sounded overly sweet.
— “I heard about your plot, but you’re lucky! We’re off with the kids next week, maybe we’ll come for a few days. Fresh air, nature, perfect for a vacation!”
Maria gritted her teeth.
— “Ludmila, this is not a guesthouse. We are just starting to get settled.”
But Ludmila pretended not to understand and promised to “bring food for everyone.”
Confrontation
One evening, Maria couldn’t stand it.
— “Victor, I understand that this is your family, but we cannot allow everyone to use our plot as if it were common property. We have been putting it off for two years, we have given up on so many things. I want peace and quiet, not uninvited guests.”
Victor sighed heavily. It was hard for him to go against his mother and sister, but he knew Maria was right.
The following weekend, Valentina and Ludmila actually stood at the gate with their bags, clearly ready to stay longer. Maria met them and said firmly:
— “We bought this house, not together. We welcome guests with joy, but not as co-owners. Please respect that.”
Valentina was speechless and Ludmila laughed nervously. Then, for the first time, Victor spoke in a hard voice:
— “Maria is right. We saved every penny. If you want to come, fine, but on our terms.”
Ending
There was a heavy silence. Then, without a word, Valentina turned and slowly walked towards the car, and Ludmila followed her, muttering something under her breath.
Victor and Maria stayed at the gate, tired but united. The cottage wasn’t large or luxurious, but it was theirs. And for the first time they felt that they had their place on earth.
