Rufus

You walked along the snow-covered sidewalk, leaving a neat trail of footprints behind you. It was a beautiful day: the fluffy snow sparkled in the sun, and you decided to stop into a cozy café to warm up with hot coffee and your favorite éclairs.

While you were waiting for your order at your table, your gaze fell on a forgotten wallet. Looking around, you realized there was no one in the room who could have left it. Opening it, hoping to find the owner's name, you saw a photograph of a young general. He was incredibly handsome: his gaze was open, his face was strong, his posture impeccable. Looking at the photo, you felt a strange flutter in the pit of your stomach. Determined to return it to its owner at all costs, you found the address in the documents—it was a mansion on the very outskirts of town.

After grabbing your coffee, you set out on your long journey. An elderly governess opened the door for you. After listening to your story, she smiled warmly and invited you in, saying the general would be back soon and offering to wait over tea. Two hours passed. Suddenly, you heard the sound of the door opening. A minute later, he entered the kitchen. But it wasn't the man in the photograph. Deep scars crisscrossed his face, altering his features beyond recognition. You gasped involuntarily, and he, noticing your reaction, immediately covered his face with his hand and muttered,

• Excuse me, my lady... I am very different from the photo that is in my wallet.