From the kitchen that overlooked the living room, I observed the heart warming scene unfolding before me. A gentle smile played upon my lips as I witnessed Erdem and Ezio engrossed in a serious conversation about the intricacies of a floor puzzle. It had taken some deliberation, but I finally mustered the courage to extend an invitation to Erdem, and his eager acceptance had brought him to us even before the break of dawn. He arrived bearing bags filled with toys and gifts, most of which I had politely sent back, convincing him to introduce them to Ezio gradually, with time. Now, as I busied myself with preparing breakfast, a twinge of guilt settled within me, knowing that I had unintentionally kept my son away from such boundless happiness. Yet, the joy radiating from Ezio's eyes filled my heart with a profound contentment. As for the barren desert within me that was slowly attempting to quench its thirst just in the presence of him, it frightened me. As Erdem’s gaze briefly fell upo

Every passing moment after Erdem left that day, served as a stark reminder that no one could ever replace him, that his place in our lives remained untouched and unoccupied. The thought of seeking a replacement, of imagining someone else in his stead, was an inconceivable notion. And I realised that after three years, in that defining moment, as our gazes intertwined, a bittersweet realization washed over me, stirring a longing I had tried to suppress—the undeniable truth that my child had been missing a vital connection, a father's love, Erdem's love. Even if I could never accept him in my life, my child needed him in his.It was a pang of longing mixed with a cocktail of emotions that cascaded through my heart. The wounds of our separation, the untold stories, and the unspoken words resurfaced, demanding to be acknowledged. At that moment, I understood that the void within our lives could only be filled by the presence of him, by the love Erdem brings with him. In that moment, I mad

As we walked towards Vesna's house, the weight of Ezio in my arms reminded me of the precious bond we shared. His drowsy eyes fought to stay open, his small body surrendering to the embrace of sleep. Beside me, Erdem walked in sync, our proximity filling the air with tangible energy. Though Ezio longed to be held by both of us, his little fingers tightly clung to the fabric of Erdem's sleeves, drawing him closer.With each fleeting touch, a surge of electricity coursed through me, igniting a familiar sensation that had lain dormant for far too long. I had truly forgotten how electrifying even the simplest of his touches were. As we neared Vesna's house, my heart quickened, anticipation mingling with a tinge of apprehension. Ezio’s eyelids grew heavy, and his head nestled against my shoulder, his soft breaths warming my neck. Sensing his fatigue, Erdem paused and smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of tenderness and understanding. “Let me carry him now,” he whispered, his voic

"Mama! Mama! Look," I heard Ezio's voice filled with excitement, drawing my attention away from the book in my hand. I looked up, my eyes lighting up as I saw him rushing towards me, his small hands clutching a vibrant bouquet of wildflowers. With his messy hair and radiant smile, he was a vision of pure joy.Setting the book aside, I extended my hands to receive his precious gift. "Are they for me?" I cooed; my voice filled with tenderness. Ezio nodded vigorously, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "They are very beautiful. Thank you, my world," I whispered, overwhelmed by the love that radiated from his innocent gesture. His smile grew wider, illuminating the already sunny day even more.“Papa helped me for you.” I noticed Erdem approaching from behind Ezio, a proud and gentle expression on his face. Our eyes met briefly."He did?" I murmured, my gaze shifting between Erdem and Ezio. A sense of gratitude filled me as I realized the depth of their connection. Ezio nodded, his admi

I stepped back, my eyes tracing every detail of Ezio's attire. The waistcoat fit snugly against his growing frame, accentuating his youthful stature. I adjusted it, ensuring it sat perfectly, symbolizing his place within our lineage. As my fingers brushed against the intricate buttons, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. The ceremonial sash, adorned with vibrant colours, rested gracefully on his shoulder. Its presence spoke of the responsibility that would one day rest upon his young shoulders. I straightened it with care, making sure it hung just right, a visual representation of the weight he would bear as he stepped into his role as the future leader of our pack. With reverence, I placed the traditional Serbian cap, the šajkača, upon his head. Its iconic shape framed his face, adding an air of dignity and determination to his countenance. It was a symbol of our heritage, a tangible connection to our ancestors and the legacy they had passed down to us."You look so handsome,"