soldier

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. No one knew where he had been 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 would glance at you, but would not come up to you because of your father. There were some brave souls who were then loaded with work so much that they had no time for you, or your father would simply walk up to a soldier, clap him on the shoulder, and say: "The birds told me that someone's bells are about to be unscrewed." Time dragged on slowly, the clock on the wall ticked monotonously, and the soldiers, tired from the day, snored, burying their noses in the pillows. Those who were not sleeping quietly played cards or looked around. But one of them still decided to come up to you. He sat down next to you and whispered:

• You're beautiful. Maybe after my demobilization we can go somewhere?

His hand rested on the back of your chair, and his gaze was full of desire and interest. You shook your head.

• Don't be so stubborn. Just a walk or a trip to a cafe. I'll pay for everything! - he managed to say before your father entered the barracks.

• Mironov! Why aren't you in bed during lights out? - your father asked sternly, forcing the soldier to stand at attention. He didn't even listen to his excuses, sent him to bed, and took you home. The next morning, arriving at the military unit, you noticed that same soldier, who was shoveling snow near the barracks, pulling a scarf over his nose. He looked in your direction, leaned on a shovel and said:

• Your father is no obstacle for me. Maybe you are my destiny, who knows? I'm Renat, by the way.
  He extended his hand to you as if to shake it, but when your warm hand found its way into his cold one, he brought it to his lips and kissed the back of your hand.