The story continues

“I want you to give me the money back,” Maria said quietly. A heavy silence fell in the room. Krystyna narrowed her eyes, staring at her daughter-in-law as if seeing her for the first time. “You have a vivid imagination, Maria. I would never—” “So where is the money?” Krystyna stood abruptly. “You’re crossing the line!” she raised her voice. “I’m not a stranger in this house!”

“And who is Łukasz to you?” Maria asked, equally quietly but with emphasis. “A stranger?” Krystyna turned, grabbed the remote, and turned up the volume on the television. “The conversation’s over.” Maria left, her hands trembling. She didn’t get a confession. But she did get confirmation. That evening, Jan returned. Maria waited until Łukasz went to his room and closed the kitchen door. “We need to talk.”