Nina, embarrassed, said, “We suspected you didn’t love Katya. We dressed like this to see your parents. Now, I feel ashamed.”

Nikita smiled, “I wasn’t offended. Katya hid things because she thought you’d find faults in me.”

Nina sighed, “We just love our daughter so much. We don’t want to lose her.”

***

Three months later…

“Mom, I’m so happy!”

Nina wiped away tears. “Forgive me, I’ve been overprotective. Parents always think they know best.”

Katya laughed. “If it weren’t for your control, I might’ve married a fraud like Denis. He’s in prison now for theft.”

Before Nina could reply, Liza burst into the room. Nina had taken Liza in after finding out she was an orphan, living with gypsies after her parents died in an accident.

“Nina, I see how hard this is for you, but I’ve gotten used to Liza’s voice. Maybe…”

Nina rushed into Nikolai’s arms, tears streaming down her face.

“Mom, Katya, look what I made! I did it myself!”

Liza handed them a card for the bride and groom. Katya hugged her. “Liza, you’re so clever! I’m proud of you, little sister!”

Liza beamed. “Little sister…”

Nina sighed. She and Nikolai had decided to tell Katya the truth on her wedding day. Today was that day.

“Katya, we need to talk seriously. I don’t know how you’ll react, but we’ve decided you need to know. Before anything else, your dad and I love you more than our own lives.”

Katya nodded. “This means a lot to me. Mom, I love you both so much. If anything, I know I’m adopted.”

Nina collapsed into the chair, overwhelmed. “How long have you known?”

Katya shrugged. “A few years. Mom, I really hope nothing changes between us.”

They sat in silence, embracing each other. The silence was broken by Liza.

“Mom, I met a boy on my way to the tutor! He’s so nice and can draw a crocodile!”

Nina sat up straight. “Lizochka, tell me everything about him! You know you must tell me everything!”

Katya chuckled softly and whispered in Liza’s ear. “Well, I’m with Nikita now, and you’re the oldest.”