“And son, not only do I not know who your father is, but I don’t know who your mother is either; I ran away from the village then so that people wouldn’t know the truth,” the woman confided in her son, her voice trembling with emotion as tears streamed down her face.

Tonia and her young son arrived from Polissia to a quaint Kherson village, eager to begin a new life by starting a farm. They settled on the outskirts of the village, in a modest mud hut. Life was tough for a single woman with a child, and everyone could see it. Tonia, a widow, was determined to make it work, despite the challenges. People initially gossiped, but eventually quieted down, recognizing her hard work and good nature.

Tonia’s genuine warmth and sense of humor endeared her to the villagers, and what was once a strange place became their home. As her son Ivanko grew up, Tonia worked tirelessly to provide him with a better future. She encouraged his academic pursuits, hoping he would escape the village life she had grown accustomed to. Her prayers were answered when Ivanko earned a scholarship to a prestigious institute, setting him on a path far from their rural beginnings.

Years passed, and Tonia lost track of her son’s life events. She was surprised when Ivanko arrived one day with his wife, having married without her knowledge. Overwhelmed with emotion, Tonia couldn’t find the words to express her feelings. She felt a pang of hurt that her son hadn’t sought her blessing for his marriage. Despite his attempts to reassure her, Tonia couldn’t shake off the sadness.

Later, in a moment of vulnerability, Tonia revealed a long-held secret to Ivanko. She confessed that she didn’t know who his father was, nor did she know who his mother might be. She recounted finding him abandoned as a baby and raising him as her own, shielding him from the truth. Ivanko was stunned by the revelation but was quick to embrace his mother, recognizing her unwavering love and sacrifice.

Touched by his mother’s honesty and devotion, Ivanko began visiting her more frequently. He realized the depth of her maternal love and the sacrifices she had made for him. Through her revelation, Tonia and Ivanko forged an even stronger bond, cherishing each other’s presence and the years they had together.