18 little love stories: ‘The children I feared I would never hold are my love story’

We asked our writers and readers to submit a short love story to celebrate Valentine's Day. The themes they chose run the gamut of emotions — romance, acceptance, joy, heartache — and every submission has a strong heartbeat

'When the chemo shut down my ovaries, the doctors told me motherhood might never be mine.'

My brilliant aunt would give me an alibi

Although I’m an atheist, I do believe in God...mothers. My aunty Norma is fierce, funny, brilliant, and brave. She’s always my champion, even when I don’t deserve it. Unconditional love, the really special kind — like if I ever need an alibi, I’m safe in the knowledge Norma would lie to authorities for me. And have a go-bag ready behind the sofa. Love you, godmother, and thanks for EVERYTHING.