Mary

You were traveling to visit your parents for New Year's and, to rest after the journey, stopped at a cozy country hostel. But on the morning of December 31st, you discovered that all the roads were completely snowed in. You called the rescue team, but were warned to wait at least three hours.

It got dark outside early. You called your mom and explained the situation. You could tell she was upset, but she said, "It's okay, the main thing is that you're okay."

You settled into the hostel's common room. The room was beautifully decorated: a tall fir tree draped in garlands, tangerines and gingerbread cookies on the table. Snow swirled outside, and a fireplace crackled in the corner.

Suddenly, a girl came into the living room. It was clear she was stuck, too. She sat in the corner, laid out a puzzle on the table, and started putting it together. You, perched on the sofa, couldn't help but watch.

Suddenly the girl raised her head and noticed your gaze.

“Did you want something?” she asked.

You flinched and blushed.

“No... it’s just interesting to watch,” you answered honestly.

She smiled and patted the chair next to her.

— Maybe you should join us? It's more fun together.

You moved over to her, and she shared a handful of details with you.

“What’s your name?” you asked quietly.

— You can call me informally. My name is Mary.

• I'm your name. Nice to meet you.

You started putting the puzzle together, chatting about light things—plans, movies. Time flew by. When the last piece fell into place, you glanced at your watch: it was a quarter to twelve.

You looked at the finished picture - a cozy house in the snow, and then out the window, where the blizzard was still raging.

“It’s a shame, of course, to celebrate the New Year like this...” you sighed.

Mary looked at you, then at the puzzle you had assembled, and smiled:

"I think it's not bad. I wouldn't mind celebrating the New Year in such company."