After his wife's funeral, the rich man encountered a gypsy and her strange words puzzled him deeply

Jay stepped out of the restaurant his coat wide open despite the February chill he didn't seem to feel the cold he just wanted to be in the warmth and Solitude of his car there it was quiet and empty away from the prying eyes of people curious sympathetic and attentive Jay opened the door of his new gleaming car and sank into the driver seat he had recently picked up this car from the dealership and was as excited as a child Sheila had even joked about his enthusiasm saying he must have missed out on playing with toy

cars as a kid Jay imagined them driving this car to the seaside in the spring back then Jay was sure his wife would recover he didn't doubt it for a moment what could be seriously wrong with a young healthy woman how naive and carefree he had been thinking about his wife Jay's heart achd he couldn't believe Sheila was gone her life had ended so suddenly she had been ill and Jane knew it was serious but he never imagined it would end like this treatment wasn't helping but hope lingered it seemed that finding the right doctors

in the best Clinic would make everything right there were results but they were shortlived her condition would improve in the hospital and she would be discharged only to relapse at home weakness worsening test results pain in her final months Sheila became a shadow of her former self it was slim the illness had left her gaunt her once vibrant hair was dull and thinning and she barely had the strength to walk to the bathroom or make breakfast Jay worked a lot he couldn't just quit his job he wanted to spend more time with his wife who

needed help but the treatment was expensive fortunately Sheila had her mother Patricia and her childhood friend V by her side when Jay was away V was a lifesaver for them she worked remotely and her flexible schedule allowed her to care for Sheila she entertained Sheila with conversations prepared special meals recommended by doctors reminded her to take her pills and kept her spirits up by reminiscing about their shared past Jay was grateful to Vina for everything she did for Sheila and for him she found the strength to support both Jay and Patricia who looked heartbreakingly frail

Jay sat in his car staring blankly at the snowy Frosty Street Winter was wearing thin and spring seemed far away it was a season neither he nor Sheila liked they had met about 5 years ago at a sports club where Sheila worked as a fitness trainer although she primarily LED group classes for women she noticed Jay struggling with the gym equipment and offered him advice Sheila's natural beauty and warmth immediately captivated Jay she was tall slender with large blue eyes and shiny chestnut hair over time Jay and Sheila grew closer their friendship deepening as they

shared jokes news and personal stories Jay confident and decisive at work found it challenging to take the first step with Sheila he feared rejection and the awkwardness that might follow fortunately Sheila took the initiative inviting him to a concert of a rock band they both enjoyed the concert was a turning point Jay finally mastered the courage to confess his feelings to Sheila the moment seemed perfect they were strolling through a deserted Autumn Park illuminated by tall bright street lights and trees adorned with Golden Leaves there was no one else around you know I really like

you Jay said resolutely looking into the large Blue Eyes of his Charming companion I mean I you finally Sheila smiled I thought you'd never say it I knew it all along it was obvious why were you so nervous I really like you too honestly they began dating enjoying walks around the city Cozy Cafe visits and trips to the countryside soon Jay met Vina Sheila's childhood best friend the girls had grown up together living in neighboring apartment buildings playing in the same sandbox and even sharing a desk in first grade they were inseparable however there was

something unnatural about V but Jay kept these observations to himself not wanting to upset Sheila who was very close to Vina she looked worried about V's struggles with relationships and even asked to introduce her to someone perhaps a colleague or friend Jay tried introducing V to a young unmarried programmer at his work the programmer was a nice guy but very shy and inexperienced with women much like Jay once was unfortunately the introduction didn't lead to anything after the first date the programmer politely declined further meetings explaining to Jay that Vina had taken control too quickly

and acting like a demanding princess and hinting at expensive gifts and outings the programmer felt used and didn't want a second date Jay also disliked via's jokes at Sheila's expense though meant to be friendly banter they often seemed to diminish Sheila's achievements and qualities however V proved to be a true friend to Sheila or was there to help and support her especially during difficult times Fina was by Sheila's side until the very end and she also helped Jay with the funeral arrangements taking charge when he was overwhelmed with grief the symptoms of Sheila's illness had

begun to show about a year ago but neither Jay or Sheila had paid much attention at first Sheila started tiring more easily and after her workouts she would come home and collapse on the couch watching TV Jay would joke about it but they both did dismissed it as a sign of Aging Jay and Sheila had planned to have children and dreamed of a large family Jay had even started looking at houses in the suburbs imagining a big garden with swings and a playground for their future children they enjoyed discussing their plans and these conversations brought

them warmth and comfort however they mutually agreed that there was no rush to have children Jay's job involved frequent business trips but he was in line for a promotion that would end these trips Sheila was also focused on her career as a fitness trainer building her personal brand and signing contracts with various fitness clubs in the city they both LED active lives and worked hard for their future feeling that they were still young and had plenty of time when will you finally make me a grandmother Sheila's mother Patricia often asked the young couple we will

Mom we promise Sheila would reply but now is not the right time we're both focused on our careers you can still have a career with a child if you need help I'm always here her mother insisted mom your heart is weak I couldn't bear to burden you with an active toddler Sheila would say later Jay often recalled these conversations and desperately regretted not heeding Patricia's advice he felt tears welling up in his eyes as he sat in his car the engine still off Darkness had fallen and a snow storm was beginning Jay thought about the

children he and Sheila had never had on the one hand if they had a child he would not feel so lonely now there would be a meaning in his life for the sake of whom it would be worth living doing something trying on the other hand a little boy or girl would have lost the most dear and important person mom even the mere thought of it made him afraid Jay took out his phone and began scrolling through the gallery he was only interested in photos of Sheila a year ago her illness had begun to show

but she still looked like herself she tried to maintain her usual lifestyle though she could no longer keep up the same Pace Sheila gave up several side jobs and dropped out of courses she she had been eager to complete she lost weight and often felt nauseous Jay convinced Sheila to get a checkup at the best local clinic and the doctor delivered shocking news Sheila had a rare blood disorder it was terrifying on Jay's body ran a crowd of Goosebumps but Sheila remained calm asking the doctor about treatment options and prognosis however the doctor could provide

few answers the diagnosis was unclear making it difficult to determine a treatment plan Sheila began frequent hospital visits perhaps you should leave the fitness club the man suggested to Sheila cautiously just for a while until you get better you can catch up later Jay was prepared for his wife's objections for a heated argument he knew how much Sheila loved her job she had admitted more than once that she couldn't live without Sports but yes you're right that would be for the best I've been feeling unusually tired lately Sheila agreed surprisingly easily this wired Jay almost

as much as her strange undiagnosed condition her sudden compliance the lack of energy and vitality was alarming and so the struggle began Jay's parents called upon all their connections Sheila was examined by renowned doctors across the the country she stayed in the most advanced clinics receiving the best treatment and was even consulted by International Medical experts by her side were her loyal companions her mother and her childhood friend v v visited Sheila often her work schedule allowing her to come at any time Jay was grateful for these visits because only vinaa could Rouse Sheila persuading

her to go shopping or to the movies the red-haired friend had a miraculous effect on the patient she acts as if nothing is wrong Sheila tried to explain to her husband and I start to feel better myself it almost seems like nothing has changed periodically Sheila was hospitalized in clinics no one could give her a precise diagnosis standard treatments didn't help and doctors experimented what else could they do the most interesting thing was that the treatment worked in the hospital her condition stabilized her strength gradually returned and she was discharged for home observation the treatment

continued but sooner or later the illness always returned her test results worsened and so did her condition the doctors Shrugged they had no idea what was going on they tried new treatment plans and cautiously rejoiced at the subsequent improvements but then everything would return to square one time passed and Sheila's condition worsened Jay watched with a heavy heart as his beloved grew weaker lost weight and became a shadow of herself his life now consisted of worries about his wife and the search for doctors willing to take on her complex case Jay wanted to spend more

time with Sheila she needed Round the Clock support and someone by her side but he had to work a lot quitting his job was not an option medical examinations and medications were expensive and somehow he had to pay the hospital bills fortunately they had Vena it was Vena not Patricia who became Sheila's main helper in this difficult situation Patricia herself was in a terrible State due to what was happening to her daughter the elderly woman's heart couldn't take it she often had to be hospitalized the stress exacerbated her chronic illness at first Jay wanted to

hire a nurse but Vena stopped him can you imagine how Sheila would feel with a stranger besides nurses are hired for elderly women or severely disabled people I don't want my friend to feel like that V said Jay couldn't disagree with her then he offered via money but she firmly refused are you crazy what's wrong with that you're caring for a seriously ill person you're spending your time on Sheila you should be compensated for that Jay argued she's my friend we grew up together we're like sisters even closer than sisters what money it's not hard

for me to sit with Sheila especially since my work allows it V replied Jay didn't insist he knew that V didn't earn much and probably needed the money but she wouldn't take it for helping her friend on that last evening V and Jay were drinking tea in the kitchen Jay had stayed late at work and returned later than agreed but Vina didn't show any sign of displeasure either with a look or a word they often had dinner together like this they talked about Sheila and other things being with Vina made Jay feel like everything would

be okay she infected him with her optimism and faith in a happy outcome Fina often said when Sheila gets better she said it as if she didn't doubt for a moment that it would be so on that evening even V looked unusually sad and bewildered Sheila felt terrible all day I even called an ambulance the doctor suggested hospitalizing her but I refused Fina said you did the right thing Jay agreed he knew that the local hospitals wouldn't be able to help Sheila besides in 3 days she'll be transported to the capital by a special vehicle

they're ready to receive her there to the capital you're talking about this again do you think it's a good idea to put her through such stress Sheila needs peace right now not more worry Fina argued I can't just sit and do nothing Jay said shaking his head he didn't know what was best but he had high hopes for the doctor there who was interested in Sheila's case and was already developing a personalized treatment plan other doctors had given up on Sheila shrugging their shoulders and admitting their helplessness well the decision is yours and Sheila's Fina

said with a smile as she left maybe they really can help her there who knows I'll support you and help in any way I can but Jay's hopes did not come true that evening he sat by his wife's bed for a long time holding her thin hand and stroking her hair she was already asleep get well please get well Jay whispered in her ear not knowing if she could hear him as soon as you feel better we'll go to Greece to your favorite Hotel you'll wear a white swimsuit get a tan we'll be happy and

at peace there that evening Jay fell asleep unusually quickly heavy thoughts did not bother him maybe he was just too tired in the morning as always Jay went to check on his wife first thing there was a sense of anxiety usually Sheila woke up at night asked for water or suffered from Pain and then Jay would give her a shot but this time there was silence Sheila lay exactly as Jay had left her the blankets hadn't even moved his heart stopped in anxious anticipation Jay realized the terrible truth even before he touched his wife and

felt the icy cold the worst had happened everything that followed felt like a dream for some reason Jay called Vina first she rushed over took one look at Sheila cried out and burst into l sobs Jay sat in the kitchen smoking cigarette after cigarette his mind refused to accept the terrible truth seeing Jay's State Fina quickly pulled herself together made the necessary cause and began her bustling activity it was Vena who organized the funeral neither Jane nor Patricia were capable of it in their State of Shock and stuper and now Jay sat here near the

restaurant where Sheila's memorial service had just taken place it had been a difficult day Jay had held back his tears and sobs all this time the man decided he would not go home today no everything there reminded him of the tragedy it would be better to go to a hotel rent a room for a couple of days and then when Jay came to his senses he would return home and decide what to do with his beloved's belongings Jay finally started the engine suddenly he felt hungry he hadn't been able to eat a single bite at

the memorial lunch which was understandable what was strange was that he could feel hunger at all in such a situation but his stomach growled insistently Jay parked at the square and headed towards a kiosk selling burgers surprised at himself suddenly he felt someone's Gaze on him he turned and met eyes as black as the night itself it was a young Gypsy Woman help me please with whatever you can my child is waiting at home hungry the Gypsy began her plea whether this young lady had a hungry child Jay didn't even want to think about it

in any case the girl needed money since she was asking for it why not help Jay reached into his pocket and handed the Gypsy several large bills is this all for me yes Jay nodded you need money I have it what's the problem the Gypsy smiled enchantingly and hid the money in her waist pouch thank you Jay nodded and was about to walk away but the Gypsy held him by the sleeve of his jacket wait wait don't rush I see trouble has befallen you serious trouble you've lost someone these words made Jay stop you've lost

someone dear to you you a wife or a girlfriend someone you loved and still love so much the woman's face suddenly took on a sympathetic expression how do you know this about me Jay asked roughly shaking the gypsy's hand off his shoulder I'm a fortune teller the girl replied unperturbed my grandmother passed her gift to me I see you don't believe me but that doesn't matter would you like me to tell your fortune you gave me so much money I want to help you in return I see that something is not right in your story

the Gypsy began to gaze intently into Jay's face the man couldn't look away from her incredibly black eyes they seemed to draw him in to enchant him suddenly his mind was empty of thoughts his heart felt light and pleasant as if the heavy day and all the sorrows that preceded it had never happened the rest of the world ceased to exist for Jay before him were only two deep black pools the eyes of the young Gypsy how long did this strange State last Jay tried to understand later but couldn't maybe a few seconds maybe several

minutes then suddenly the Gypsy abruptly looked away and everything returned the noise of the city the unbearable heaviness in his heart the smells the thoughts so much pain the girl finally said shaking her head so much pain and despair I saw the strong bond between you now it's being torn apart that's painful of course it's very painful the girl sighed but I can see that you don't believe me all right would you like me to tell you what you promised your beloved on her last evening you promised to take her on a trip to Greece

as soon as she recovered Jay shuddered he suddenly remembered clearly now he was Sat by the already sleeping Sheila's bedside Whispering Promises of a trip to the Sea urging her to get better soon no one could have known this what what happened to her the truth won't be easy to hear here the woman SED but you need to know because you might be in danger too I must help you you're a good person generous and kind I'll tell you everything are you ready Jay wasn't sure if he was ready but he nodded anyway it was

someone close to your beloved very close a woman she trusted she led your beloved to the Grave intentionally I saw a lot of dark Envy so dark it's frightening I rarely encounter such darkness in people red hair this young woman has red hair Vina Jay whispered with horror and disbelief I can't see names the Gypsy shook her head red hair young attractive very malicious and envious bad energy she did something that made your beloved ill she did it constantly and she had the opportunity because she was always by her side thank you Jay said pulling

another large bill from his wallet and handing it to the girl she nodded gratefully accepting the payment she hadn't expected Jay turned and walked resolutely back to his car he had changed his mind about staying at the hotel he needed to go home and find evidence and he already had an idea of how to do it home without Sheila felt empty quiet and dark things were scattered everywhere the day before the funeral Jay hadn't been in any state to keep things tidy he headed straight to the kitchen where a hidden camera was installed near the

ceiling only he and Sheila knew about it the kitchen also concealed a safe hidden from prying eyes where they kept money valuables and important documents the safe installer had recommended setting up the camera everyone does it these days just in case you probably won't need it but sometimes these recordings are helpful during legal proceedings Jay had followed the advice and almost forgotten about the camera but now after the strange conversation with the Gypsy he realized the installer had been right he needed those recordings as Jay drove further from the meeting place with the Gypsy the

encounter began to feel less real by the time he got home the girl's words seemed like a typical scam a way to extract more money from a stranger perhaps she had even hypnotized him and everything he heard was just a product of his grief stricken imagination but he had to check the recordings just to be sure the videos should have been stored in the devic's memory for up to 3 months plenty of time to to uncover any wrongdoing if vanessa was truly involved Jay was determined to find out he spent the entire night in front

of his laptop watching footage from his own kitchen it was painful to see Sheila weak and frail but still alive the rapid changes in her appearance were starkly evident in the fast forward she seemed to fade away day by day becoming a ghostly figure Jay watched as he and Sheila shared breakfast talking and smiling at each other this was just two months ago soon after Sheila took to her bed and Jay began bringing her meals Jay paid particular attention to the scenes featuring V Sheila's friend was a frequent visitor often working from their kitchen table

typing on her laptop and occasionally preparing meals or taking phone calls sometimes she would disappear from the kitchen for extended periods like watching TV in the living room or spending time with Sheila the camera only covered the kitchen Jay noticed something peculiar Vina was adding a liquid from a small bottle with a red cap to the food she prepared for Sheila at first he thought it might be one of Sheila's medications but the bottle was sto St in a cabinet under the sink an odd place for medicine vaa seemed to be deliberately hiding it there

was a niche under the sink a hidden space between the cabinet and the wall where the mysterious bottle was likely kept Vina added this liquid to everything she gave Sheila porridge soups drinks even fruit then Jay was horrified to see Vina injecting the substance into to an apple with a syringe a chilling realization struck Jay could Vina have poisoned Sheila the video evidence was clear and detailed leaving little room for doubt Jay went to the kitchen and opened the cabinet under the sink he reached into the niche and found the very same bottle with the

red cap it was almost empty with just a few drops left this would be enough for announ is as Jay stood up his phone vibrated it was Vina calling hi Jay answered trying to keep his voice calm how are you you looked terrible earlier should I come over do you need my help Fina was clearly trying to get into Jay's apartment perhaps remembering the hidden bottle I'm fine Jay said I'm already in bed no don't come over we'll talk later all right but if you need anything remember I'm here for you anytime as soon as

Jay hung up he searched his phone for the number of an old classmate who now worked at the police he needed advice on where to take his evidence and suspicions and how to start an investigation it's not every day you discover that your wife's best friend is a criminal once Jay contracted the investigators the case moved swiftly with the help of some connections results came quickly the bottle contained a highly toxic substance that could cause the symptoms and effects Sheila had experienced detecting this substance in the blood is extremely difficult which is why the doctors

hadn't found any traces of poison there was no longer any doubt that Sheila had been poisoned the realization was devastating Jay struggled to accept it his grief turning to rage he threw things against the wall roaring like a wild animal destroying everything in sight surprisingly the neighbors didn't call the police Jane knew he could have prevented this if only he had thought to review the camera footage earlier or send Sheila to a clinic where Vina couldn't visit his wife might still be alive Sheila always improved when away from home where Vina couldn't tamper with her

food Jaber rated himself for not making the connection sooner the signs had been there all along but he had been blind to them now he was determined to bring Vina to Justice and find closure for Sheila's tragic death proving Vina's guilt turned out to be more challenging while the video clearly showed her adding liquid to Sheila's food the contents of the bottle remained uncertain the presumption of innocence still held and vena's fingerprints on the bottle were not conclusive evidence as Jay's were also present thus Jay himself came suspected for a Time V was called in

for questioning and afterward phoned Jay shouting and trying to guilt him how could you think of such a thing about me I've known Sheila since since childhood longer than you she's like a sister to me I would never harm her I spent so much time caring for her and you I saw you adding that liquid to her food with my own eyes Jay retorted Jay was relieved that Vina lived on the other side of the city he felt capable of harming her for what she had done however he couldn't risk going to prison he had

responsibilities his parents Sheila's mother in his job he trusted that Vina would be punished according to the law the investigation uncovered more details V's fingerprints traces of the substance in her bag and in the bathroom where she had tried to dispose of the remaining potion the toxic substance left residues on all surfaces it touched making it easy to detect even after some time traces were even found under vena's fingernails the trial proceeded smoothly with abundant evidence Jay attended every hearing determined to see Justice served Vena was sentenced to 10 years in a strict regime Colony

though Jay felt the sentence was too lenient he knew it was the best outcome under the circumstances Vena glared at him with unconcealed hatred her eyes filled with despair fear and rage but no remorse Patricia also present at the sentencing was devastated how could you do this she trusted you she cried she always thought you were better than me Vena sneered Patricia trembled and Jay held her tightly he felt responsible for her now that she was alone he vowed never to abandon her after vena's conviction Jay returned to the square hoping to find the Gypsy

woman who had revealed the truth about Shea's death he wanted to thank her or perhaps just confirm that their encounter had been real however he couldn't find her other Gypsies and locals had no recollection of the woman he described Jay was slightly disappointed but accepted that some Mysteries are meant to remain unsolved the important thing was that the gypsy girl had helped him find Justice for Sheila 3 years had passed since the tragedy and much had changed Jay embarked on a journey of healing exploring meditation therapy and even starting his own business he sold the

old apartment that held so many painful memories and moved to a cozy country home in a picturesque Village Life gradually regained its vibrancy the sadness and longing for Sheila remained but Jay found joy in Simple Pleasures again a delicious meal time with friends the beauty of nature he even met someone new a beautiful and understanding woman named Sasha she was nothing like Sheila and Jay wasn't trying to replace his late wife their relationship developed naturally and Jay found himself experiencing familiar feelings of joy and warmth Sasha became his salvation helping him find happiness again Sasha

knew Jay's story she had her own losses and tragedies in life in short one day they realized that it was time for them to live together it would be easier and more pleasant that way Jay and Sasha got married without a lavish ceremony or pomp neither of them needed it Patricia was simply happy for Jay that's the right thing to do she said Life Goes On life continues the woman had managed to cope with her loss she found new hobbies dancing for those over 50 a book club Patricia lived socialized and tried to enjoy life

Jay helped out as much as he could Patricia and Jay often discussed via's actions neither of them could comprehend what she had done and both blamed themselves for not noticing anything earlier but there seemed to be no warning signs Fina was always so polite so kind Patricia would say shaking her head she looked you in the eye smiled offered help her parents were both drinkers especially her father they didn't care about their daughter it wasn't a marginal family but still not entirely stable I felt sorry for V took her in gave her some of Sheila's

old clothes Fina often went to school in old and dirty skirts and blouses and she was so grateful saying thank you a hundred times it was almost uncomfortable she and Sheila were inseparable their whole lives what happened Jay would shake his head and hesitate to share his own Thoughts with Patricia he too was tormented by this question why Sheila had always been so kind and warm to her friend helping her out with money when needed rushing to her Aid at the first call comforting and supporting her when Vena faced difficulties and genuinely rejoicing in her

friend's successes it seemed that having such a kind and loyal person by your side was a gift from fate and a great Rarity so why did it happen perhaps there was something they didn't know some dark secret these thoughts wanted them and eventually 3 years after the tragedy he decided to visit V in prison he was immediately warned that Vena was not in the best condition she had contracted tuberculosis from one of her cellmates the treatment was long and grueling eventually the disease was brought under control but the damage it had done to her body

was irreversible she doesn't have long left that's what our doctors said say a prison staff member told Jay I'm telling you this so you won't be too shocked when you see her she's changed a lot and she she agreed to talk to me right away Jay asked when he applied for the visit he was prepared for Vena to refuse to see him after all it was he who had put her behind bars she must have hated him all these years why wouldn't she agree the guard smirked it's not like anyone else visits her no family

no friends so any attention is better than none the visit took place in a room resembling an ordinary living room a soft sofa two comfortable armchairs a coffee table even a flat screen TV on the wall Jay spent about 20 agonizing minutes in that room before V entered the guard was right she had changed a lot if Jay had met her by chance on the street he wouldn't have recognized her V had always been pleasantly plump now she looked like a skeleton her skin dry and wrinkled an unhealthy yellowish Hue her once Lush bright red

hair was now a sparse dull gray Vina seemed to have prepared for the visit her thin tightly pressed lips were covered in cherry red gloss cheap mascara clumped on her sparse eyelashes at first Jay almost felt sorry for her but then he remembered what she had done Fina smiled at Jay revealing darkened teeth she slowly approached the armchair and sat down across from her visitor Jay looked at V and didn't know how to start the conversation the words he had planned seemed to have vanished from his mind he had prepared for this meeting had questions

and phrases ready but vena's appearance had thrown him off see what I've become Fina said sadly a hint of a smile on her lips she looked at Jay Without Anger or resentment he had expected her to lash out at him with accusations but she didn't instead she seemed to be seeking his approval looking into his eyes pleading ly trying to evoke sympathy it was strange I know about your illness Jay finally said they say I don't have long left now do you understand how Sheila felt the words slipped from Jay's lips before he could think

them through Fina slowly shook her head and a spark of malice lit up her sunken eyes strain strangely animating her gaunt face Sheila Venus spat out the name with so much hatred and disdain she ruined my whole life tormented me since childhood from the very beginning do you know why I came to see you Jay asked it's not difficult to guess I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner I even expected you much sooner you want to know know why I did it Jay briefly nodded he was doing his best to hold back from saying anything hurtful

to V countless times alone at home he had shouted at her shouted at the woman who couldn't hear him because she was far away in prison in another city Jay had called her the worst names and strangely it had made him feel better but now now he couldn't let his emotions get the better of him Vena had to talk she had to explain herself perhaps she needed this too tell me everything Jay said calmly I want to know everything everything she always thought she was better than me Fina began we were supposed to be friends

but V she acted like I was second rate I was taken for granted and as a child I accepted it as normal she was the successful princess and beauty and I was just an afterthought Fina was born into a family that was far from prosperous her parents worked but they weren't exactly marginal however both loved to drink in the evenings their apartment was filled with large noisy groups of people vodka flowed freely and toasts were made one after another these gatherings often ended in heated arguments and fights or with guests and hosts passed out all

over the apartment her parents seemed to love and care for her but they always economized when it came to their daughter Vina never had nice new dresses or school bags she was given the cheapest school supplies and there was never enough money for school material so in some subjects no matter how hard V tried she couldn't do well surprisingly her parents always found money for their drinking parties with friends once Fina asked them directly why they could afford to entertain but not properly equip her for school we are working people her father explained his voice

trembling with righteous indignation we earn money we feed you we need need to relax somehow to relieve stress otherwise we'll just die in this life everyone grows up like this her mother retorted don't make things up and don't play the victim you know how strictly our parents punished us for the slightest misdeed we don't even lay a finger on you as for money times are tough now all children grow up like this no one is particularly pampered but Vina knew that not all children grew up like this she didn't have to look far for an

example Shea her best friend and neighbor was proof enough Sheila was raised solely by her mother having never seen or known her father they lived modestly but the way Patricia treated Sheila was special despite her meager salary she managed to bring joy to her daughter she saved money to buy Sheila nice clothes for school paid for all her school trips cooked delicious meals for her and most importantly was always interested in her daughter's life she asked about her day knew all about her relationships with her classmates and was involved in her life Sheila and Vina

had been friends since they were very young they met in the sandbox in their Courtyard 5-year-old Vina was already playing alone her mother assured the neighbors that this was to teach her daughter Independence Fina was even proud of this at first her peers were accompanied by their parents but she was on her own later as she Grew Older she realized that it was simply her mother's laziness and indifference Patricia watched over Sheila but from a distance not interfering in her games and conversations with other children she was simply there making sure her daughter was safe

the girls became Fast Friends Sheila was the first to approach the redhead Vena and told her she looked like Pippy long stocking from the cartoon Vena was intrigued she had never heard of this character and Sheila eagerly told her exciting stories about the redhead girl who seemed to attract Adventures it was captivating from that day on Fina and Sheila were inseparable Patricia encouraged this friendship and always welcomed V into their home V often visited Sheila and was amazed by her friend's room it was beautifully arranged with a bookcase full of children's books a large Toy

Box beautiful flowers in pots on the window sill a comfortable desk and soft bed linens with princesses Fina had never had anything like it yet Sheila's mother earned far less than V's parents Patricia simply tried harder for her daughter Sheila was the light of her life her main priority fina's parents on the other hand saw their daughter as a useless appendage in their small family an extra mouth to feed even though they claimed to love their little girl Patricia never shouted at or punished her daughter once in front of Vena Sheila dropped a glass it

shattered on the floor and large drops of compt splattered the walls Vina flinched expecting a scandal at home she would have been in big trouble for something like that but Patricia just smiled it's for good luck she said handing her daughter a rag clean it up but be careful don't cut yourself the mother watched Sheila carefully as she cleaned up gently guiding her and giving her advice but then praised her for her effort perhaps it was at that moment that Vena first felt Envy toward her friend she lives in her own room like a princess

and her mother never scolds her why does some have everything and others have nothing time passed and it was time for the girls to stop start first grade as luck would have it the friends ended up at the same desk much to their Delight soon however it became clear that school was not easy for either of them before school started Vena and Sheila had dreamed aloud about becoming the best students in their class but in reality they ended up somewhere in the middle Vina was delighted that at least in this regard Sheila hadn't surpassed her

and she tried very hard doing her homework listening attentively to the teacher even studying extra at home all this was to become better than her friend in something however all these efforts bore no fruit the girls grades were roughly the same and quite mediocre then one day a gymnastics coach from a sports School came to the first graders physical education class she watched the children closely looking for promising students in the end Sheila and a few other girls from their class were selected the children were invited to a trial at the sports School Fina cried

bitterly when she got home she had been rejected Sheila was chosen but not her once again she was left out but Patricia noticed that Vina was very upset she asked what was wrong wrong and V confessed that she also wanted to do gymnastics but hadn't been chosen Patricia hugged Vina and promised to sort it out she felt sorry for her daughter's friend perhaps understanding how hard it was for her with such parents true to her word Patricia spoke to the coach and Vena was also accepted into the group as an exception V was overjoyed she

had no intention of becoming a great gymnast the important thing was that she now felt equal to Sheila not inferior but equal after all she too had been selected for the group as the friends Grew Older the gap between them became more apparent Sheila was one of the best students in her year at the sports school after a few years Vina was advised to find another sport thanks to the tutors hired by Patricia Sheila's grades improved while V remained a struggling student Sheila had beautiful if inexpensive outfits while Vina wore clothes from secondhand shops and

so it was with everything Sheila was more loved and respected in class and boys admired her her life was more interesting and fulfilling than her best friends this angered Vina yes she and Sheila were friends and this friendship brought Vina many benefits for example Sheila let her copy homework and lent her clothes for discos Patricia often invited Vina for lunch and fed her Delicious Pies bch and dumplings she even sent Vina home with treats one day V realized that even these kindnesses and pity from Patricia humiliated her the woman seemed to see that her daughter's

friend was a pitiful creature and tried to comfort her out of kindness Fina was angry with Sheila despite the benefits she gained from their friendship Sheila however noticed nothing she considered Vina her most loyal and reliable friend sharing her dreams and secrets with her this openness and honesty also infuriated V Sheila had a purity and freshness that Vena lacked Vina appeared to be Sheila's loyal friend but secretly she waited for something bad to happen to Sheila and rejoiced when it did for instance Sheila lacked just a few points to be admitted to the economics faculty

she was almost in tears when she shared this news with v v comforted Sheila trying to hide her Joy at least something didn't work out for that annoying Sheila she thought you see Mom paid so much money for tutors she really wanted me to become an economist I feel bad for her Sheila said yes but what can you do sometimes things don't go as planned Vina philosophized trying to hide her satisfaction but I didn't really want to go to that faculty myself I dream of something else I just feel bad for Mom Fina maintained a

sad expression and nodded sympathetically but inside she was rejoicing serves you right Sheila Fina herself never even considered going to University let alone such a prestigious faculty she realistically assessed her abilities but Sheila hadn't made it either Fina was thrilled after school V enrolled in a culinary school the only place her meager grades could get her into her parents were pleased it was a good stable profession that Vina already knew that she would never work in the food service industry such physically demanding work was not for her she would find another way to make a

living maybe she would marry well why not Sheila on the other hand end ended up in a great place which again caused via pain her friend enrolled in a physical education school she had always loved Sports and was excellent at it after graduating she didn't go to work in a school but found a job in a fitness club soon she had a good income and a loyal clientele who couldn't praise the young trainer enough Vina was again consumed with Envy even crying into her pillow at night over the Injustice by then she hated her friend

yet she couldn't bring herself to end the relationship perhaps that would have brought her relief but Vina continued to play the role of a devoted friend V also found acceptable work for herself learning to fill out Marketplace cards for money there were plenty of orders but it was a deadend job with no prospects besides she couldn't stand Sheila's everever increasing salary life once again showed each friend her place stagnation and a dead end for V and an interesting job and development for Sheila again it was unfair all this only fueled via's hatred she still hoped

that she could arrange her life as well as her friend or even better the only option as she saw it was a fortunate marriage she just needed to find a wealthy man charm him marry him and a comfortable life would be assured Sheila didn't even consider this option she was passionate about her work and sought self fulfillment Vina however planned to take a different path one that was more effective and most importantly quick but nothing worked out Fina tried hard seeking relationships and attempting to attract young men from wealthy families often this meant compromising herself

adapting to others and even humiliating herself yet there were no results except for prolonged romances that never turned into serious relationships Vina felt empty and disappointed after another failure when Sheila told her about Jay this reignited vena's hatred with new intensity Jay was precisely the kind of man V dreamed of from a wealthy family educated with a good job and bright prospects and he truly loved Sheila Fina saw how he looked at her friend with admiration and tenderness no one had ever looked at Vina that way it it was painful and unfair Fina made several

attempts to charm and win Jay over but she quickly realized it was futile then came another blow Sheila and Jay got married all of vena's Dreams seemed to come true to her despised friend how could she bear it Fina didn't immediately decide on her terrible act but first she tried for a long time to arrange her own life albeit unsuccessfully she failed to succeed in her career or relationships against this backdrop Sheila's life seemed brilliant like the foil on a bottle of expensive champagne a dazzling career and a wealthy handsome husband Jay was not indifferent

to Vena he was the kind of man she dreamed of it wasn't just about his money and Prospects his appearance manner of speaking and smile all of it resonated with v and gave her no peace she wanted to be in Sheila's place when he hugged his wife or looked into her eyes Fina decided to act when Sheila confided in her that she and Jay were thinking about having children this was the final straw for Vina she he simply couldn't bear it the plan wasn't spontaneous V spent a long time searching the internet for the most

suitable way to eliminate her rival she needed to do it in a way that wouldn't implicate her and she found the perfect solution poison Fina found people who could make it their services were expensive but Vena spared no expense for her dream from then on everything was simple Sheila trusted her friend they often met and had lunch together the symptoms didn't appear immediately and Vina thought she had been deceived and that the poison wasn't working but then Sheila began to complain of feeling unwell Fina still couldn't believe that everything was going according to plan but

Sheila's condition worsened Day by day eventually Sheila was bedridden and Vina had no more doubts she was always by Sheila's side supporting her while slowly poisoning her now via felt stronger and More Beautiful while Sheila faded away there was no Trace left of her success when Sheila passed away vinaa felt immense relief now the person she could never catch up up to was gone there were of course other women more successful and beautiful than Vina but they didn't bother her they didn't touch the strings of her soul Sheila was gone and Jay was now free

Vina had a plan she wanted to be Jay's support and comfort she thought he would notice her during this difficult time appreciate her and they would be together without Sheila everything should now fall into place for V but something went wrong there was an unexpected summons to the police and charges were brought against her Vina was terrified she didn't want to end up behind bars but she never regretted what she had done to Sheila now you know everything Fina concluded her story you you sent your friend to her death out of Envy Jay still couldn't

believe it could Envy really be such a powerful emotion exactly via confirmed with a smile there was a gleam of Triumph in that smile Jay suddenly felt uncomfortable and frightened before him Sat a monster a monster who had done this out of Envy she had died because she was more successful than her friend it was unimaginable I think it's time for me to go Jay said calmly and stood up from the sofa wait no one has visited me in all these years let's talk a little more I'm going to die soon but the man left

the room closing the door behind him he had much to think about Jay wanted to share what he had learned with Sasha to discuss this heavy story with her but Patricia he would never tell her it would be too great a burden for her let her continue to think that Vena simply went mad it was simpler that way