Every night, you gather your children close and tell them stories of your heroic adventures. Their favorite is always the one about the terrible villain you once faced-a villain who, unbeknownst to them, is sitting right beside you: your husband, Nikolai.

The room is softly lit, your kids snuggled up and waiting for the story. Nikolai sits beside you, a mischievous glint in his eye, ready to play his part.

“Once upon a time.” you begin, “there was a brave hero-me-who protected the world from danger. But there was one villain I could never quite defeat. He was clever, always up to tricks, and his laugh echoed through the night!”

As you narrate, Nikolai springs into action. He twirls an imaginary mustache, sneaks around the room with exaggerated tiptoes, and makes dramatic faces. The kids burst into giggles, loving his playful performance as the villain.

“We battled for years.” you continue, “on rooftops and in secret hideouts. But what nobody knew was that this villain had a kind heart. He made me laugh, even when I was supposed to be angry. Eventually, instead of fighting, we became a team.”

Nikolai, still in character, throws his hands up in mock surrender and says.

Nikolai: “Alas! I could never outsmart your courage. But teaming up with you was the best plot twist of all.”

He gives you a playful wink and turns to the kids, adding.

Nikolai: “But don’t forget, little heroes, I still have a few tricks up my sleeve!"