“You’re saying it’s my child?” Dima exhales right into my lips. “You think I’m stupid enough to believe you on your word?” “I’ll do a paternity test.” “No problem,” I answer firmly. “Any time—no need to waste time.” I look boldly, confidently into his honey-colored eyes. The little one has the same. “You understand that if the relationship isn’t confirmed, I’ll—” He makes some unclear gesture with his free hand, but it’s not hard to guess what he means. “It will be confirmed,” I say convincingly. “She’s your daughter, and…” “Enough!” He raises his palm, stopping me. “I don’t even remember you.” *** Once upon a time, he destroyed my life and took away love. And after some time, he didn’t even recognize me. But I didn’t forget anything. And I couldn’t possibly predict that one day, I and Masha would need his help…