A Child for a Friend When Lily was in the final months of her pregnancy, her younger brother left home, her father began drinking heavily, and Lily’s life descended into chaos. Each morning, Lily would air out the flat, clear empty bottles from under the table, and wait for her father to wake. — Dad, you’re not supposed to drink. You barely survived that stroke. — I’ll drink if I want to. Who can stop me? It’s the only way I can bear the pain. — What pain? — The pain of knowing I’m unwanted, Lily. Even you — I’m a burden to you. I’m a lost cause. I should never have married or brought children into this miserable life. You kids inherited nothing but weakness from me. Everything’s a waste, love. Drinking’s easier. Feeling worse by the second, Lily argued. — It’s not all for nothing, Dad. Others have it worse. — Worse, you say? You grew up without a mother! Now you’re about to raise a child alone, and all you’ll give them is poverty. — It’s not all bleak, Dad. Nothing is permanent. Anything can change in a moment. Lily recalled with a pang how happy she’d recently been, preparing to marry Ilya. The world had shifted, but she pressed on. That day, her father got drunk again. Lily cried out in frustration: — Did you drink the emergency money I’d tucked away? How did you even find it? You tore apart the whole flat, went through my things! — Everything in this place is mine — including that pension of mine you keep hiding from me! — So you drank it all? Didn’t you even think about how we’d get by? — Why should I care? I’m a sick man. You’re grown. Take care of me now! Lily searched the cupboards, panicked. — I know for sure there were two packs of pasta and a bit of butter yesterday. Where is it now? What are we meant to have for dinner?… She sat on a chair, face in her hands, utterly shaken. How was she to know her father’s “friend” Natasha had taken to getting him drunk and helping herself to what little food they had whenever Lily was out? With Natasha worming her way into the house, the family was coming apart at the seams. Lily spent the night in tears, hungry and exhausted in her bed. The next morning, Natasha breezed in with her heels, designer coat, and not a care. — Hello! I heard from my friend at the council you’re in arrears. They might cut your power off any day. What’s going on, Lily? Got anything for tea? Without waiting, Natasha rummaged in the cupboards. — No tea, no sugar — nothing in the whole place. Well, pregnant women need their vitamins! Let’s get to the shops. Lily avoided eye contact. — Auntie Natasha, I’m not making tea. You’d best leave. Natasha wouldn’t. — You’ve got problems, you do. I told you before, come live with me. This time I’m not asking — I insist. There’s nothing here for a baby: your dad’s a drunk, you don’t have food, and a new mum needs healthy meals. Pack your things. Come with me. Lily sat back down, dizzy. Tears slid down her cheeks as Natasha hugged her: — Listen, love. I know you resent me — my daughter stole your fiancé. But I’m not cruel. I can’t stand by and watch you suffer. Whether you want it or not, I’ll take care of you. Everything after felt like a dream — Natasha packed Lily’s bags and called a taxi. *** When Lily’s labour started, Natasha didn’t leave her side. — Remember what we agreed, Lily. I’ve told the staff you want to put your baby up for adoption. When she’s born, don’t hold her. Don’t look at her. Don’t feed her yourself. Lily, wracked by contractions, managed: — Auntie Natasha, I don’t care. I just want this pain to end. — Don’t forget, you’re in no state to raise a child. I’ve found a lovely couple to adopt her — they can take her home immediately. A few hours later, Lily delivered a healthy girl. — Three-point-three kilos. She’s perfect! — announced the nurse, swaddling the fussing newborn and whisking her away without even showing Lily. But the paediatrician frowned at Lily: — What is this? Such a beautiful, healthy girl, and you won’t even look at her? Bring the baby back, please. Mum, you should hold your daughter. Lily shook her head, upset. — I don’t want her. I can’t provide, I didn’t want this… There are people who need her more. I’ll sign her away… — At least look at your baby, please. Eyes squeezed shut, Lily felt something soft touch her hand. The nurse laid the tiny bundle beside her, and Lily finally looked at her daughter — tiny, vulnerable, peering up with hopeful eyes. The child’s little hands sought her, resting against her chest. — That’s it, Mummy. Give her a feed, — the paediatrician smiled as Lily’s hands trembled at the sight of her child for the first time. — She’s such a lovely girl, you know. She needs you, not adoptive parents. Understand? Lily wept, clutching her daughter and nodded. For the next two hours, Lily, unable to look away from her new baby, began to feel what it meant to be a mother. “Here’s the purpose to my life — my daughter. Doesn’t matter if Ilya’s gone, if Dad struggles… My daughter needs me. I’ll stay with her.” *** Lily awoke to Natasha in the hospital room. Natasha stormed in, gown tied tight. — Did you forget our agreement? You promised to sign the baby over — I’ve already arranged everything with a lovely couple! — I’ve changed my mind, Natasha. I’m keeping her. — You can’t! You have no money, nowhere to go! What are you going to do, beg on the streets? The baby woke up at Natasha’s raised voice and Lily got up to soothe her. — Don’t touch! I’ll feed her formula. Tell the nurses you have no milk, — snapped Natasha. Lily shook her head. — This isn’t your decision. She’s my daughter. I’ve changed my mind. I’m not giving her up! — You can’t do this! You promised! — Natasha gaped at her. — Leave. Natasha left. Lily’s roommate propped herself up, eyes wide. — Who was that? — My aunt. — Good grief. Don’t listen to her. You did the right thing. I’m Lara. If you need help, I’m here — the world’s not short of good people. — I’m Lily. — Nice to meet you, Lily. She looked like she wanted to snatch your baby and run. So strange. *** Just before Lily was discharged, another visitor called her to the hallway. It was her old friend, Sarah, now hugely pregnant. — Hi. Lily sat down cautiously. Sarah dropped onto the bench beside her. — I heard you had your baby. — Yes. A girl. Sarah hesitated. — You know Mum found a couple who’ll adopt your daughter. — And? — They’ll pay a fortune, Lily. Enough to buy a flat, even. Think about it. — You care? Sell your own child, then. Sarah pouted but clung to Lily’s sleeve. — Please, Lily — let me raise your baby! She’s Ilya’s daughter, after all! — You think you can handle two children? — You don’t get it. My marriage is falling apart! Lily stood to go. Sarah grabbed her, eyes wild. — I need this child, Lily! — Let go. A few hours later, Ilya himself appeared. — Had the baby? Can I see her? — No. Your own baby’s due soon — let Sarah show you! — We have to talk, Lily. Ever since you gave birth, I haven’t slept. I want to take my daughter. Sign her over and I’ll adopt her. Lily shook her head. — I’m nothing like you. I’d never abandon someone who needs me. You’ve wasted your trip — I will never give you my daughter! Ilya wouldn’t leave. — Give me the child! You had no right to have her without me! She’s mine! — You? A mummy’s boy? Ask your mother if you’re allowed first! Lily pushed past him, took her baby and went to the nurses’ station. — Please don’t let anyone see me. I don’t want any visitors. It’s like a revolving door in here! Epilogue The day she left the hospital, Lily hugged her daughter close. She wasn’t alone. Her roommate Lara was also going home, welcomed by her husband and mother. Lily paused, seeing the Resnikovs’ car. Ilya’s mother, Valeria, stepped out, eyeing Lily coldly. Lily shivered; Valeria looked ready to pounce. Lara came over. — Who’s that? — Ilya’s family. — They look like they’re waiting to ambush you. I told you Mum has a room ready for you. Come on. Lily agreed. She felt unsettled, too. *** Living with her new friends, Lily found unexpected love — Lara’s cousin John, a confirmed bachelor, began to court her. John proved himself kind and genuine. He married Lily, adopted her daughter, and even helped care for her troubled father. As for Sarah and Ilya — their marriage fell apart. Turned out Sarah’s pregnancy was fake; she wore a false belly the whole time. Natasha, desperate to cover for her daughter, finally confessed to her son-in-law that Sarah had suffered a miscarriage early on — and suggested a “solution”. — Ilya, love, don’t be angry at my daughter. Yes, there was a miscarriage, but you’re not blameless either. Another woman is having your child. So why not take Lily’s baby as your own? No need to upset your parents — let everyone believe it’s Sarah’s child. Ilya liked the plan. Everything unraveled, though, when Lily refused to give up her newborn — leaving her former friend and her mother trapped by their own deceit. Ilya’s mother, Valeria, furious upon learning the truth, threw Sarah out and made Ilya divorce her.

A Child for a Friend

When Lily was in her final months of pregnancy, her younger brother left home, her father took to drink, and from then on, her life became nothing short of misery.

Each morning, Lily opened the windows to air out the lingering stench, cleared empty bottles from beneath the table, and waited for her father to awake from his drunken slumber.

Dad, you really shouldnt be drinking. Youve only just recovered from a stroke.

Ill drink if I want. Whos to stop me? Its the only thing that dulls the pain.

What pain?

The pain of knowing Im of no use to anyone. Not even you. Im a burden, Lily. Im a hopeless man, never shouldve been born, never shouldve wed or had children to pass on nothing but weakness and poverty. Its all for nothing, my girl. Easier to just drink.

Already in low spirits, Lily found herself growing angry.

Not everything is for nothing, Dad. Plenty of people have it worse.

How could it be worse, Lily? You grew up without a mother, and now youre set to have a child with no father, wholl know nothing but hardship as well.

Things arent as bleak as all that, Dad. Nothing lasts foreverthings can change in a moment.

Thinking back on how shed once been happy, betrothed to Elijah, Lily sighed with sorrow. The world had shifted, but life had to go on.

That very day, her father drank himself into another stupor. In frustration, Lily shouted, Did you spend the money I put away for emergencies? How did you find it? Did you turn out the whole houserifling through my things?

Everything under this roof is mine, her father declared. Including the pension youve been tucking awaymy pension!

And youve wasted it all? Did you think about what well live on?

Why should I? Im not well. Youre grown, let it be your concern now!

Lily rummaged through every cupboard.

I know for certain there were two packs of pasta and a block of butter left last night, and now theyre gone! What on earth are we meant to have for supper…?

She was shocked and dropped into a chair, covering her face with her hands.

How could she have known that Aunt Natalie, visiting when Lily was out, had been sneaking drink to her father and pilfering food every chance she got?

Like a sly fox, Natalie had slithered into their lives, tearing the little family further apart.

That night Lily cried herself to sleep, heartsick and weary, with an empty belly.

The following morning, someone knocked at the door: it was Natalie. Dressed in a fashionable cloak and smart boots, she didnt even bother removing her shoes as she breezed in.

Morning, Lily. My friend down at the council says your bills are overdue and the lights will soon be cut off. What on earth is happening? Now, shall we have some tea?

Without waiting for an answer, Natalie went straight to the kitchen where she began rifling about in cupboards and the larder.

Ill make the tea myselfyoure expecting, like my Sophie Good heavens, you havent even got any tea or sugar. Honestly, the place is as bare as old Mother Hubbards cupboard. Come on, lets nip to the shop.

Lily avoided Natalies gaze. Aunt Natalie, I cant offer you tea and I really think you ought to leave.

But Natalie wasnt to be deterred.

You do have problems, that much is plain. Remember how I once suggested you move in with us? This time, Im not askingyou simply must come home with me. Theres no place here for a child; your fathers always drinking and theres nothing to eat! You need fruit and good food, not to mention a roof over your head. Gather your thingsno buts.

Lily sat down, dizzy, and tears pricked at her eyes. Natalie wrapped a sympathetic arm about her.

Listen, my dear, I know how you feel about me, and I dont blame youafter all, my own daughter took your fiancé. But Im not a monster, and I cant just let you go on living like this. Willing or not, I shall see youre taken care of.

What followed seemed a blur: Natalie helped Lily pack, hailed a taxi, and off they went.

***

When Lilys labour began, Natalie hardly left her side.

Listen closely, Lily. Ive told the midwives youll be putting your child up for adoption. When the time comes, dont hold her, dont nurse her. Just look away.

In pain, Lily only managed to groan, Oh, Aunt Natalie, I dont care. Just let it endthis hurts so much.

Dont forget what Ive said. You cant manage alone. Ive even found you a good couple looking to adopt immediately.

Some hours later, Lily gave birth to a baby girl.

Seven pounds three, healthy as can be, the midwife said, bundling up the wailing newborn and carrying her off without so much as showing her to Lily.

But the paediatrician shot Lily a severe glance.

Whats this now? Wont even look at your own baby? Miss Evans, bring her back and let her try the breast.

Lily shook her head, distressed.

I dont want to. I havent the means to care for her. There are others who need her moreIll sign the papers…

Dont be daft, at least look at your baby.

Lily squeezed her eyes shut, but suddenly felt something soft and tender brush her hand.

The nurse placed the infant beside her; she wriggled, nosing to nurse, and Lily at last looked at her daughter.

So tiny and helplessher eyes half-shut, her tiny fists searching Lilys chest.

Well, Mum? Time to feed your girl, the doctor coaxed with a smile, brightening as Lily shivered at the thrill and awe of meeting her child for the first time.

Such a pretty thingyoure who she needs, not strangers.

Lily wept as she drew her daughter close and nodded.

For the next two hours, Lily could not take her eyes off the newborn as they lay side by side, wonder and love growing with every breath.

That was when her instincts awoke.

There it is, she thought, “the meaning of my lifemy daughter. Whether Elijahs left or Dad keeps drinking My girl needs me, and I shall stay with her.

***

Lily woke to the sound of Natalies voice.

Natalie, in a dressing gown, had just entered the maternity ward, her expression stern.

Have you forgotten our agreement? she whispered. You promised youd put the baby up for adoption. Ive made all the arrangementsshe can go today.

Ive changed my mind, Aunt Natalie. I wont give her away.

But you have nothing, Lily! Not a pennywhere will you even go with her?

Home. I wont be a burden any longer. Ill manage by myself.

Lily saw Natalies face twist into a mask of fury.

You must be mad! No moneywhat will you live on, then? Out begging on street corners?

Natalies raised voice woke the baby. Lily got up and reached for her.

Dont touch her! Natalie demanded. Ill rock her and feed her formula. Well tell the midwives youve no milk.

Lily shook her head.

This isnt your decision, shes my daughter. I said Ive changed my mindIm keeping her.

You cant! You gave your word! Natalie spluttered.

Out, please.

Natalie left in a flurry. Lilys ward companion, quiet all this while, lifted her head.

Who was that, then?

My aunt.

Goodness gracious. Dont listen to her. You did rightstanding up for yourself. Im Laura. If ever you need anything, Ill help. The world isnt all hard.

Im Lily.

Pleased to meet you, Lily. That woman looked as though shed snatch your baby and run. Odd sort, she is.

***

Before discharge, Lily received another visitor, this time out in the corridor.

Her former friend Sophie, heavy with pregnancy, looked uneasy as she waited.

Hello.

Lily sat on the bench, carefully.

Sophie sat beside her.

I heard you had the baby.

Yes, a little girl.

Sophie wrung her hands.

ListenMums found a couple who desperately want a baby, and I know themtheyre wealthy, very kind. Theyre offering ten thousand pounds. Imagine! You could get a room somewhere, maybe even put a deposit down on a flat.

Ten thousand? Lily replied, feigning surprise. Well, since youre so concerned, why dont you give them your own baby, then?

Sophie pouted, but kept hold of Lilys sleeve.

Wait, Lily. Give her to me! Ill look after her, shes Elijahs daughter, after all.

Think you can manage two children?

You dont understand, Lily! My whole familys falling apart!

Lily sprang up to leave, but Sophie clung madly to her arm.

I need her, Lily!

Let go.

A few hours later, Elijah himself burst in, catching Lily off guard.

Well, have you? May I see the child?

No, you may not! Sophies about to have yoursgo mind her!

We need to talk, Lily. Ever since you gave birth, I havent been able to sleep. I want to take our daughter and adopt her myself.

Im not like you. I could never abandon someone who needs me. Youve wasted your tripIll never give you my child!

Elijah, too, was strange and wouldnt leave.

Give her to me! You had no right to have her without me! Shes mine and Ill get her one way or another!

You? Ask your mothers permission first, mummys boy! Lily retorted, pushing past him with her daughter, heading for the nurse’s station.

Please, could you stop anyone else coming in to see me? This is not a public placeI dont want to see a soul!

Epilogue

On the day she was discharged, Lily walked out holding her daughter tight.

She wasnt aloneLaura left at the same time, greeted by her husband and mother. Lily paused as she saw the Carters car parked outside.

Out stepped Elijahs mother, Valerie Carter, craning to inspect Lily with a sharp, wolf-like glare.

Lily felt a chill run down her back.

Her would-be mother-in-law glowered, looking as though she might pounce.

Laura, noticing Lilys anxiety, came and stood with her.

Whos that, Lily?

Elijahs parents.

Shes glaring at you as if shes lying in wait. Theyve all got it in for yousomethings not right here. Remember I told you Mums saved a room for youcome and stay with us.

Lily nodded. She couldnt shake the unease that haunted her.

***

Living with her newfound friends, Lily found love in the most unexpected placeLauras bachelor cousin, John, began to court her.

He proved a kind and good-hearted man. Not only did he marry Lily and adopt her daughter, but even took it upon himself to help Lilys troubled father.

As for Sophie and Elijah, their marriage soon dissolved. It turned out Sophie had faked her pregnancy with a cushion, deceiving all the Carters. In the end, Mrs. Natalie Carter, desperate to protect her daughter from scandal, revealed that Sophie had miscarried very early on. She had even concocted a plan to pass Lilys baby as Sophiesto keep up appearances.

Elijah, son, dont be angry with my Sophie, she pleaded. Its true about the miscarriage, but you, too, have a child elsewhere. Why dont you and Sophie adopt Lilys baby? No one need know, we can pretend Sophies still expecting, and take Lilys child as our own when shes born.

Elijah loved the plan. All would have workedbut Lily ruined everything by refusing to leave her newborn behind, trapping her former friend and aunt in their own lies.

Valerie Carter was disgusted at her daughter-in-laws deception, threw Sophie out, and made Elijah divorce her in due course.