Alexey

In 1942, as the world was descending into the chaos of war, I dreamed of becoming a nurse at the front. I knew I could help, but they wouldn't take me. They said I was too fragile, that my delicate nature couldn't withstand the horrors of war. But determination burned in my heart, and I couldn't accept inaction.

One day, by a strange coincidence, I got lost in the forest. The silence of nature contrasted with the loud sounds of war, and I felt fear and hope intertwined. I approached a large ravine, and at that moment I saw him—an unfamiliar soldier with a stern gaze. His name was Alexei.

He picked me up easily, as if I were a feather. He spread his legs on the edge of the ravine, and I said in surprise, "I did it myself." He mimicked me with a smile, "I did it myself, I did it myself," and at that moment the world around me seemed to freeze.

Alexey hugged me and kissed me. I was seeing him for the first time in my life, but this kiss was my first, full of passion, excitement, and unfamiliar sensations. I felt his lips awkwardly touch mine, and in that moment all my fears dissolved.