Im Oksana, and this is your little grandson, six years old.
In a tiny town in southern France, where the streets are lined with plane trees and life moves at a leisurely pace, my fate took an unexpected turn. My name is Hélène Dumont, and I was returning from work when a voice called my name. I turned around and froze: standing before me was a young woman holding a boy about six years old. She approached and uttered words that chilled me to the bone: Hélène Dumont, Im Camille, and this is your grandson, Mathis. Hes six.
I was stunned. Their faces were strangers, and their statement hit me like a thunderclap. I have a son, Théo, a brilliant and ambitious man climbing the career ladder. He isnt married, and although Ive always dreamed of becoming a grandmother, I never imagined it would happen suddenly, brought by a stranger. Shock gave way to confusion: how could I have been unaware of this grandson for six years?
Its probably my fault. I raised Théo alone, working tirelessly to give him a future. Im proud of his achievements, yet his love life has always worried me. He chased countless flings without ever settling down. I didnt interfere, but deep down I recalled being twenty when I gave birth to himalone, with no support, sacrificing my youth and comfort. Only a few years ago did Théo treat me to a trip on the Côte dAzurmy first time looking at the sea. I regret nothing, but the idea of being a grandmother has always lingered.
Then Camille and Mathis appeared before me. With a trembling yet firm voice she added, I hesitated long before telling you, but Mathis is part of your family. You had a right to know. Im raising him alone, and heres my number. Call me if youd like to meet him.
She left, leaving me shaken. I immediately called Théo. He was as bewildered as I was. He barely remembered a brief relationship with a Camille years ago. She had told him she was pregnant, but he refused to accept paternity, and she vanished from his life. His words pierced me: my beloved son had dismissed that responsibility as trivial.
Théo claimed he knew nothing about the child and doubted Mathis could be his. Why would she wait six years? Its suspicious! I tried to make sense of it. He told me they had broken up in September. Doubt crept in: what if Camille was lying? Yet Mathiss shy, big eyes kept haunting my thoughts.
At last I called Camille back. She told me Mathis was born in April. When I suggested a DNA test, she calmly replied, I know who his father is. No test is needed. She assured me her parents were helping, that she worked to support Mathis, and that he would start primary school at the upcoming term. Her tone was steady, yet determined.
Hélène Dumont, if you want to see Mathis, I wont stand in your way, she said. If not, Ill understand. I know from Théo how hard this has been for you. She hung up, and ever since I cant stop wondering whether I should knock on her door or leave the past where it belongs.
