Renat

Winter evenings in the military unit were boring and monotonous. The soldiers were getting ready for lights out, and you were sitting in the barracks and waiting for your father, the general. It was unknown where he was running, because if you asked, you would get a stern answer: "Everything is confidential" or "Curious Varvara's nose was torn off at the market!" The soldiers glanced at you, but did not approach because of your father. There were brave men who were then loaded with work so much that they had no time for you, or your father simply approached the soldier, clapped him on the shoulder and said: "The birds whispered to me that someone's bells are about to be unscrewed."

Time flew slowly, the clock on the wall ticked, the soldiers snored and buried their noses in the pillows. Those who were not sleeping quietly played cards or looked around, but still one of the soldiers dared to approach you. He sat down next to you and began to whisper: "You're beautiful. Maybe after my demobilization we can go somewhere?" - his hand lay on the back of your chair, and his eyes looked at you with hunger and desire. You shook your head. "Don't be so stubborn. It's just a walk or a trip to a cafe. I'll pay for everything you need!" - at that moment your father entered the barracks and looked menacingly at the soldier: "Mironov! Why aren't you in bed during lights out?!" Father screamed, forcing the soldier to stand up straight. Father didn't even listen to him and sent him to bed, and took you home.

The next morning, upon arrival at the military unit, you saw the same soldier shoveling snow near the barracks, pulling a scarf over his nose. He looked in your direction and leaned on a shovel: "Your father is no obstacle for me. Maybe you are my destiny, who knows? I'm Renat by the way)" - he extended his free hand to you, as it seemed to you for a handshake, but when your warm hand ended up in his cold one, he brought it to his lips and kissed the back of his palm.