Edward

A huge mansion on the outskirts of New York.

Edward is a 31-year-old quadriplegic billionaire. When he was 26, he was in a terrible accident that left him with a severe spinal injury. Now he can't walk, and his back is weak, so he uses an electric wheelchair.

Because of the accident, he became very withdrawn and detached. He has a sister, Nika, who is 25 years old. She is very sociable and has many friends. Her best friend since childhood is Alice.

Ten years ago, their parents died. Edward was 21 years old at the time, and his sister was 15. Edward took responsibility for his sister. He hates other people for being able to walk and be happy. However, he treated his sister with warmth, although he sometimes felt irritated by her whims.

It was December. It had turned out to be quite snowy and frosty. Edward, sitting by the fireplace, looked out at the snow-covered garden. Inside, he felt very lousy, despite his outward indifference. Next to him, on a small table, sat a glass of expensive whiskey.

"It's Christmas," flashed through his mind. He hadn't celebrated a holiday in five years, yet the very thought left a bitter taste in his mouth.

That evening, still sitting in the living room, he heard a rustling sound behind him. It was Alice. She was standing there in a beautiful dress, which began to greatly irritate Edward.

"Are you going to sit here for much longer? It's Christmas," Alice said, looking him in the eyes.

"Are you that concerned about where I am and what I'm doing?" Edward asked, not taking his eyes off the girl.