Galimgim

Epilogue

Years passed, and Christian and I finally tied the knot. Three years into the marriage, we still didn't have children.

Sometimes, we talked about starting a family. But maybe it was the stress, or how busy I always was with work, that made it difficult for us. Still, we waited patiently. If it was truly meant for us, we believed God would give us what our hearts longed for.

And one day, He did. After two years of waiting, we were blessed with a healthy baby boy. I was exhausted, sweaty, and far from looking my best, but Christian hugged me tightly and kissed me anyway.

That was when I realized how hard it is to be a parent. Sacrifice became a part of every day. I took a leave from work to care for our child, and six months later, I finally returned. Christian didn't want to let me  go back so soon---he worried about my health---but I assured him I was fine. I was eager to work again, though a part of me knew my life had changed forever.

We hired a nanny, but as our son grew, I couldn't help but marvel at him. He had inherited our genes, yes, but he had his own spark too. He loved science---strange for a child so young. He would sit in front of the TV, completely absorbed in experiment shows most kids his age wouldn't even understand. I tried encouraging him to play with his toys, but he always went back to science.

Christian and I became his role models. We did our best to lead him the right way---at least, what we thought was right. And yet, the thought of him going to school a few months from now felt unreal. I wasn't ready to let him go, but life doesn't wait. Growth never stops. 

We were proud parents, especially when Vladimir—our little boy—would beam with excitement and say, "When I grow up like Daddy, I want to be a scientist!" He was only four, but he already had a dream. It took me years to discover mine, but there he was, already so sure.

I became emotional after that. The thought of him spending time away from me brought tears to my eyes. Christian held me close, kissed me gently, and comforted me.

Then we found out why I had been feeling emotional: we were expecting another child. Our hearts rejoiced. Vladimir was the happiest of all---he had always wanted a brother or a sister.

When the day finally came for Vladimir to start school, I let him go with confidence. He could already read and write with our guidance. I was proud of him. I was proud of myself too.

Not long after, Christian asked me to take another leave from work. My first trimester were delicate, and he wanted me to take extra care. He was there every step of the way, making me feel cherished and loved.

And I realized---this is my life now. A life with Christian. With our children. With love at the center of everything.

An incredible life.