Anton’s Selfish Path

Anton always lived on his own terms. While others buried themselves in studies, he focused on business. He resold cars, collected computers, and chased deals relentlessly. Then he met Albina, a humble honor student studying a foreign language.

They fell in love, married, and soon welcomed their first child, Dimka. A few years later, their daughter Lenochka arrived. Albina devoted herself fully to motherhood, caring for two young children.

A Controlling Marriage

Albina suggested hiring a nanny, but Anton refused. “Children should be raised by their mother,” he insisted. He poured money into himself—buying cars, TVs, and nights out with friends—while dismissing Albina’s small needs.

Time passed. The children grew, and Albina felt lonely and exhausted. When she asked Anton to spend time together, he always claimed he was busy—yet found time for friends.

Finally, Anton blurted, “We’d better get a divorce. I’m tired of this family life. I need freedom.”

Albina pleaded, “What about the children? What about me?”

Anton shrugged. “You’ll be fine. You’re a mother. You’ll handle it somehow.” That evening, he moved out, taking all his belongings. Albina’s comfortable life collapsed overnight.

Struggling Alone

Albina found work as a cleaner at a shopping mall, leaving the children with a neighbor. She took extra night shifts, balancing work and home with great difficulty.

“Mommy, why are you always at work?” little Lena asked. “I miss you.”

“I’m sorry, sweetheart,” Albina sighed. “I need to earn money for food and clothes.”

“And Daddy? He earns a lot. Why doesn’t he help?” Lena asked. Albina had no answer. Anton had vanished from their lives.

An Unexpected Inheritance

One day, Albina learned that her grandfather had quietly invested in multiple companies over the years. He left his entire inheritance to her beloved granddaughter. Albina was stunned.

Remembering her grandfather’s advice—“Save your pennies, they’ll come in handy someday”—she decided to use the money wisely. She enrolled in professional development courses and invested in a small business, opening a neighborhood café.

The Shocking Encounter

One day, while welcoming guests, Albina froze. Anton stood at a table with a young blonde. She approached calmly.

“Good afternoon. What would you like to order?” she asked.

Anton looked up, shocked. “Albina? Are you working here as a waitress?”

“Yes, I work here,” she replied calmly. “So, what will you have?”

“Two cappuccinos and croissants. I thought you were still a cleaner,” Anton smirked.

Albina served the order without a word. Anton tried again, “You’re doing well… maybe serving coffee is your calling?”

She stayed silent. When he asked about a proposal, she smiled, “As you can see, I’m working a bit on the side.”

Anton’s companion laughed. “Everyone is in offices, and here you are, among the people.”

Albina calmly said, “Enjoy your meal.”

Finally, Anton asked, “So you’re the owner?”

“Yes, this is my café. Enjoy. If you need anything, ask the waitress Lena,” Albina said.

She walked into her office, feeling Anton’s stunned gaze follow her. It was clear she had finally moved on, stronger and independent.