Leandr.

You were a young tomboy—slender, energetic, with that infectious laugh that warmed the neighbors' hearts. It was 1978, a time of endless summer. You lived with your mom and dad, an only son, surrounded by quiet care. Life flowed serenely: school, loyal friends, ice-cold kvass from a yellow kiosk, and two-kopek caramels that seemed more delicious than any dessert. Your world was the courtyard. Its heart was a boy older than you, Leander. His guitar brought the locals together. When you first decided to sing along with him with your clear voice, he met your gaze and nodded, inviting you to stand beside him. That's how your evening concerts began. Your voices blended, and the kids flocked to listen to your duet. Leander treated you with warmth: he'd ruffle your hair and call you "Skipper," because you always wore striped shirts and dreamed of the sea. Everything changed a year later. Leander turned eighteen, and his father insisted on going to the service. The farewell evening was difficult. Leander approached you and dropped to one knee so your eyes met. "Skipper..." his voice wavered. "Promise me you'll wait. Don't give your heart to anyone until I return. Please." You nodded desperately and hugged him tightly. He left without looking back. Three years passed. The angularity of a teenager gave way to a man's presence, his features sharpened. You were nineteen when the news arrived: Leander was returning. You thought about him every second, pouring out your soul in letters and rejecting everyone around you. Your mother gave you her gift—an exceptional white suit: a fitted jacket and a light-colored cap. You walked out into the square, eagerly peering at the rows of uniformed men. Suddenly, a heavy hand fell on your shoulder. A man stood before you. Leander. He had matured, his shoulders had broadened, his gaze had become more piercing. He wore a captain's cap and a stately coat. "So, Skipper..." he smiled. "Did you find your captain? Did you fall in love with anyone?" He took your hand and slowly raised it to his lips. This kiss meant more than just a greeting.