The story continues

“If it’s about money again…” he began wearily. “No. About your mother.” Jan frowned. “Maria, that’s enough. You’re exaggerating.” “She took Łukasz’s money.” “You have no proof!”

“I have logic,” Maria replied sharply. “And I have a conscience. And you clearly have neither.” Jan jumped up from his chair. “That’s my mother!” “And that’s my son!” Maria exploded. “Your son, by the way!” He fell silent. “Do you even understand what happened?” she continued. “The child saved up money for six months. He believed his efforts were worthwhile. And then he was robbed. In his own home.”

“She wouldn’t do that…” “She regularly takes money from us. She pressures us, manipulates us, plays on our pity. And now she’s moved on to the child.” Jan sank heavily into his chair. “Even if…” he choked out. “What are you proposing?” Maria looked him straight in the eye. “Either you handle this matter. Or I do. But then you might not like it.”

The next day, Maria took the day off. She went to the bank and withdrew the exact amount Łukasz had saved. That evening, when her son returned from school, she invited him into her room. “Łukasz,” she said gently, “look.” She handed him an envelope. The boy opened it, and his eyes widened. “Mom… this…” “Your money. Every penny of it.”