Alin A
Nothing Happens Just Like That

   Dedicated to R.E.S.
   Life is what you see it like.
   Death is as well.
   Each story desires to be told.
   Should you leave your comfort zone, the new possibilities will open to you
September 2009 – August 2014

   © Alina, 2014

Review from the publisher

   Brief, but vividly bright Alina’s novel «Nothing happens just like that» arises interest from the very laconic and mysterious prologue. Two built up plotlines have nothing in common with place of events, time or heroes. Though, it is just the first impression.
   While reading these two seemingly different destiny descriptions – one takes place in Russia during war and post-war period of 1940-s, another unfolds abroad in present days – one involuntarily compares their daily round, feelings and fate. An intrigue on what really interconnects all these heroes remains to the very last chapter and strikes the readers by unusualness of proposed point of tangency, sacramental deep sense, resembling the works of Steven King.
   Nothing appears excessive – neither meetings, nor dialogs or deeds…
   Nothing happens just like that! This plain, but for some scaring truth was depicted by Alina in a unique narrative style, constraining to think over – what is predestinated for a man by a destiny, are we able to control it, how strong are our capacities, how broad are the bounds?
   Apart from unconventional plot and mixture of narrative styles, from the first to the third person, review of sightseeing attractions and historic events, one points out legerity of author’s phrase, at times running to ingenuousness, frankness and a wish to share with the readers the mysteries of the world and its structure, mysteries of her soul and emotions.
   It is noteworthy that these are the very first steps in Alina’s work – the more touching the novel’s dedication appears. It is evident that, viewing such debut, further works of an author shall be read voraciously, considered and debated.
   We would expressively wish Alina success in her work, hoping to face complete version of a novel and to read the new books as fast as possible. Indeed, nothing happens just like that – every story desires to be narrated.

Bookvika

//-- * * * --//
   I have a feeling I’m being watched… since a month ago or so. Anywhere I go, anything I do. Even my home doesn’t seem to be a safe place for me anymore.

   A month ago, I invited my best friend Susan for a lunch. We went to our favourite restaurant “Asian”, which offers a divine view to one of the most beautiful cities in the world – New York. Many people dream of getting here and realize their, as they say, “American dream”.
   I was born and raised here. I believe that’s why I take everything for granted. I have even stopped noticing the privilege, the beauty and the majesty that surround me.
   Since I had no appetite but still needed something to eat, I decided to order a salad with avocado and shrimps, which was as delicious as always.
   – Come on Adri, you must be kidding! A shrimp salad? Why don’t you order what I did, a steak with pommes?
   – No, I have no appetite and shrimp salad is nourishing enough.
   – Well, if you say so. How are you? How is it with Alen?
   No, I could no longer pretend that all was fine and who else should i trust if not my best friend.
   – Well, it’s over.
   Sue nearly dropped the glass of water she was holding. Anytime she experienced a shock, Sue would drop anything she had in her hands. Alen and I were to Sue the dream couple. In her opinion, we had the ideal relationship and were an example for her. Now, however, I felt as if I was betraying my best friend for shattering her picture of an ideal couple. If only Sue knew, how sorry I was…
   The waiter brought our order and I thought it was the right time for changing the subject of the conversation.
   – And how are you? When are you planning to hand over your report? I will come to listen to you with a big pleasure. Eventually, not every day there is an opportunity to listen to the story of the birth of different accessories and perfume.
   And then for the first time, I had this feeling of being watched.
   I looked around but saw nobody.
   – Honey, don’t interrupt and stop shrinking the started threads. Listen, but may be it will get better and somehow be settled?
   – No, Sue, it won’t. Alen is moving to Philadelphia today. He got a new job there. Unfortunately, everything that has a beginning has its end as well. But let’s be positive. The end of something means the beginning of something else, doesn’t it?
   After speaking, I again had this strange feeling.
   – Is something wrong? You look kind of pale, – Sue looked really concerned.
   – No, no, it’s ok.
   – Looking at you one wouldn’t say so.
   Hastily glancing at the watch, I forced myself to swallow at least half of the salad and said that I had a lot of work to do and had to run, leaving Sue sitting with a dazed expression on her face.
//-- * * * --//
   I just needed to get away. Where to? It didn’t matter, what mattered was just to get rid of that annoying feeling of being watched.
   In order to get at least a bit distracted and to bring my thoughts in order, I decided to have a walk along Manhattan.
   Shutting my ears with the earphones and listening to one of the melodies, which had this magic ability to calm me down, e.g. “The story of one love” by Louis Miguel, I moved along Central Park towards Manhattan.

   I could not help wondering about the history of origin of my city, which the New-yorkers themselves call “Big Apple”. How and why the nickname “Big Apple” or “City of Big Apple” appeared, no one knows exactly. There are a few versions.
   New York tour guides from Brighton Beach say, that the association between the „apple“ and New York arose, because the first tree planted by the first settlers and which gave the first fruit, was the apple tree, and therefore the apple became the symbol of New York.
   Another version is clearly of a French origin. In 19th century, in New York, there were quite many brothels and a fresh and young prostitute was call an apple. This naming was floated by a french aristocrat Evelyn Claudine de Saint Emerdon, who immigrated to New York and opened one of the first salons, where the young men from wealthy families could meet up with the girls, who were called “Apples of Eve”.
   Another version explains that this name originated in 1920-s, and was used for the first time by a sport columnist of “New York Morning Telegraph” newspaper John Fitzgerald. At this time, New York racetracks enjoyed great renown. Fitzgerald used to say, that in New Orlean, he had heard from the jockeys the following expression: “The horses love apples, and horse racing in New York is a “big apple”. He picked up this expression and was using it in his story about New York racing world. He named his chronicle “Around the Big Apple”. Therefore, at the intersection of Broadway and West 54th Street, one can see the plate “Big Apple Corner”, established in honor of John Fitzgerald.
   But the most often told story was the proverb, which was common among the jazz musicians:
   “On a tree of success there are lots of apples, but if you manage to win New York city, you got the big apple”. John F. Kennedy himself said the following about New York: “Most of the cities – is a noun, but New York – it is a verb”.
   The city was called New York in 1664 in honor of the British King James II – the Duke of York, when the British finally conquered the island, which before was called New Amsterdam or New Orange.
   How it had changed since that time! I recalled the photos of the city taken in early twenties, which I had seen in the album of my great-grandmother, to understand, see and feel the development of the city as of a living organism.
   My great-grandmother, Satenik, who at the age of 16 migrated from Western Armenia during the great Armenian massacres, used to tell my grandmother, and she in her turn to me, about her first impression of arriving in America.
   But one thing definitely remained unchanged: New York has been and remains the embodiment of poverty and super wealth, as well as of impossible possibilities.
//-- * * * --//
   Returning back to the work, I still couldn’t concentrate on anything.
   And again, I had the feeling of being watched, even here on the fifteenth floor of the building near to the Central Park, which is leased as offices.
   But how is it possible when I am all alone in my office?
   I am most probably worn out and need a break. Yes, exactly, a vacation, that’s what I need. I will go to my boss right away and tell him that next week I am off for, at least, ten days.

Àlen

   On Thursday, I booked a ticket to Hawaii.
   I love Hawaii, despite the fact that too many memories are associated with Alen.
   Oh Alen, why did we have to complicate our lives? After all, everything was so perfect, too perfect to be true.
//-- * * * --//
   Two years ago I flew to Hawaii with Sue.
   We were making fun of ourselves and telling that it was our honeymoon without our husbands, although none of us had a date for the last half a year.
   These kinds of jokes are typical for me and Sue, and yet sometimes, we need no words as we understand each other even without them.

   It was our dream to afford a vacation in Hawaii.
   And now, when I had my well-paid job in one of the biggest and best real estate agencies, and in addition I was very successful, I decided to make a special gift for Sue’s birthday and invite her for the vacation.

   Here we are, coming out of the airplane and the first feeling we had, was how the warm humid air cuddles us and envelopes down to the lungs.
   At the baggage pick-up section, we were welcomed by the Hawaiian dancing girls, who at the end of the dance gave to all the travellers a necklace of lovely smelling flowers. It’s a peculiar kind of their own way to show their hospitality to the visitors, and their own way of sending a greeting message to all the people who arrive from all over the world and speak different languages.
   The Hotel “Four Seasons” was one of the best on the whole island. I booked a suit room, which could easily accommodate six people.
   The day tended to an afternoon, when we arrived at the hotel. Having unpacked the suitcases and taken a shower, we made ourselves nice.
   It took about two hours, and when we felt hungry, it was still too early to go to a restaurant. So we decided to drink sweet cocktails in the hotel bar.
   Immediately after a few sips, we could already feel the alcohol not only in our stomachs, but also in our heads.
   But why bother? We are on the beautiful island and do not have to get up early the next morning, so why not relax to the fullest.

   And here HE came in, dressed up all in white. Even being blind, it would be impossible not to feel his charm and charisma. He was with a few guys, as it turned out later, with his best friends. The most surprising was that, when they entered the bar, all the guys sat at the table next to ours and he walked straight up to our table and asked if we would like to join them. Just like that, so simply and directly, as if we were already familiar with each other.
   If the same thing happened in New York, we’d definitely react differently. No idea what exactly affected us, the atmosphere of the island or the alcohol, but to our surprise, we agreed.
   – Drinking alcohol without the company of man can be dangerous, – said one of the guys, when we joined them.
   – Especially for such beauties, – added the other one.
   – Oh, really? Somehow we didn’t realize it, – said Sue.
   – What exactly, that you consume alcohol or that you are without a company of men? – asked the third guy.
   – That it might be dangerous, – I intervened.
   – Well, lovely creature, believe me, it is not quite safe. After all, men are like sharks, patiently waiting for their victims.
   – Guys, stop it immediately. Your black humor can be misunderstood, and the girls might think we ourselves are those sharks, – said the guy who invited us to their table and introduced himself. – I am Alen. And these are my three best friends. We know each other almost from the cradle. This is Jonathan, and as you may have already noticed, he is a fan of black humor. This is Richard – he loves nature and birds, and he even writes a book about them. And this is Mathias. The thing that he enjoys the most in his life is food and cooking. We have a small tradition: every year we discover a new place for a vacation. Now it’s your turn.
   – I am Adriane. And this is Susan. We are best friends since our school time. And this is our kind of honeymoon, – I blurted out before thinking what I was saying, which is quite typical for me.
   When I finished the sentence, the guys’ faces got longer from surprise and disappointment. And then I realized what I had blurted out.
   – Well, and as all of you may have noticed, Adri is also a big fan of the humor. We are not lesbians, who just got married.
   One could see the ease on the guys’ faces.
   – Well, not that we have anything against the minorities, but it would be a damn shame, if such beauties wouldn’t be interested in the opposite sex.
   – By the way, about minorities, does anyone of you know what a legend says, I mean, where they come from? – Sue decided to show off her knowledge.
   From the surprise the guys’ eyebrows crawled to their forehead.
   – What? Is there even a legend how they appeared? Asked Alen.
   – Of course there is, and it reads as follows: once upon a time, when the gods and the humans lived together on the earth, all the people were like Siamese twins, to be more exact, a man with a woman, a man with a man and a woman with a woman. These people were more powerful than the gods, and realizing their power, they started threatening the gods. Zeus decided to give them a lesson and his lightning split them in half. As a punishment, he scattered them all over the world, so that people would spend all their lives looking for their second halves. And apparently, the first female halves found each other on the island of Lesbos, and hence got their names.

   All four of them turned to be a lot of fun and had great sense of humor, and that made the evening stunningly easy.
   The bar turned to a restaurant and the restaurant in its turn – into a club.
   But the feeling that we were together with complete strangers was absent, it felt as if we knew each other for the whole life.
   Alen was the most charming guy I had ever met. He had unusually big eyes, in which one could draw in. I realized that I was losing control over my feelings. And the most horrible thing was that I couldn’t hide it.

   It was about four in the morning, when we came back to our hotel room. Despite the fatigue, I couldn’t fall asleep for a long time. I was excited and spent nearly an hour in the bathroom. After sitting in a warm bath for good fifty minutes, I decided to get back to the bed with the hope that I would fall asleep. But another surprise was waiting for me – a beautiful bouquet of thirty – five snow white roses with a note: “Thank you for the unforgettably beautiful evening. Wish it would never end. With love. Alen”.
   I couldn’t believe my eyes.
   – So-me-one is fal-l-ing in lo-ove, – Sue gave me a big smile with a flame in her eyes.
   – Don’t be silly. I don’t even know him, – most of all, I was trying to convince myself than Sue.
   – Adri, you can’t cheat me. Look at yourself; you are all glowing like a disco ball. And I like to see you happy, even though we have planned to have some fun without guys, because after all, it’s our honeymoon, – and we both burst into laughter.
   There could be no consideration about falling asleep.

Îleg

   A man named Hitler decided to take over the world and, obviously, he was resolute about it. Many young people joined the army voluntary. Some of them never came back. If the family was lucky enough, they would receive the body or at least its parts.
   Despite the horrors of the war that were shocking the whole world, Masha was feeling herself the happiest person in the whole world. She just turned seventeen, and met love of her life.
   The whole town was talking about the Krasnov family, before they even moved to Sverdlovsk from Perm. Evgeni Krasnov was to be the new leader of Sovkhoz. Oleg was the youngest son of the family. The two older sons joined the army a year ago.
   Masha saw Oleg the day they arrived to Sverdlovsk. He looked kind of skeptical and did not seem very happy. But all of this didn’t matter to Masha, as she was sure that he was the one she had been waiting for all her life. He had such impressive big eyes, it seemed one could drown himself in them.

   One week passed since Oleg with his family moved to this town. Everything was unfamiliar, no friends or even acquaintances. Oleg felt lonely, and in addition, his innate shyness. But for it, he could go up to that girl with the beautiful long hair and talk to her.
   “Life can be so complicated! Or maybe it is not complicated at all, but we complicate it?” Oleg was talking to himself. “What is the best way to approach her?”
   He was rehearsing speeches whole nights through, but all in vain. He never had the courage to talk to her.
   One night, while preparing for the next speech rehearsal, he suddenly realized that no words were needed. Smile. Here is the answer.
//-- * * * --//
   From now on, the only thought that swirled in her head was about Oleg. He managed to get into her blood vessels and reached the heart.
   Masha did not know how to attract his attention.
   Sveta, Masha’s best friend, tried to help her in every way with her advices, but Masha lacked courage.
   – Masha, don’t be a coward! Ogle, wave at him. Otherwise, how can he understand that you like him?
   – Oh, Sveta, I cannot make the first step, like a street girl.
   – Don’t make me laugh, and what do street girls have to do with it. I don’t tell you to throw your arms around him. Just give him a sign, that’s all.
   One afternoon, when Masha was helping her mom tidy up the garden, Oleg drove by on his bicycle. He smiled at her. At this moment, Masha felt how she blushed and prayed that her heart wouldn’t jump out of her chest.
   They both realized that in the midst of the impossible, there is always something incredible hidden.

Ìy first longterm relationship

   Things were developing fast, too fast for me. After another evening spent with Alen, his friends and Sue, Alen asked me for a date. We went to the most romantic restaurant I have ever been.
   – You look concerned —, was the first thing Alen said.
   – Do I? It…just everything is somehow too good. And I don’t recognize myself. Usually it would take me at least two weeks till I make up my mind to go out to a date.
   – Not in my case —, said Alen, giving me one of his charming smiles.
   – It seems so.
   – You know, with you I feel like I found my home again. You make me feel very comfortable and confident, and I have this strange feeling of knowing you.
   This last sentence of his made me feel totally confused, because I could say the same thing about my own feelings.
   – Tell me about yourself, I want to know more about you.
   – Well, there isn’t much to tell.
   – Where are your ancestors from? From your appearance, one can see that you have a mixed blood.
   – And who nowadays doesn’t have it? From my mother’s side, I have Armenian blood flowing in me, and from my father’s side – French. But I consider myself an American, as I was born and raised in America, to be more precise – in New York.
   – Half – Armenian and half-French of an American origin. It should be interesting, to grow in a blended family, and with different cultures. I’ve heard a lot about France and the French, but I don’t know so much about Armenia.
   – According to the legend, on the second day when God created the Earth, first he planted the soil and then emptied a sieve, but inadvertently, he knocked over all the stones in one fell swoop, and this is how they were all in the same place, in Armenia, which is considered to be the land of stones. One of the attractions of the country is the church, carved out of the rock. And Armenia is the first Christian country, which in 301 accepted the Christianity as the state religion.
   – Interesting. I’ll have a go and see it. And what are your passions that you love the most?
   – I love to travel, to discover new countries, cities, new culture and their cookery. And in general, next year I plan to travel around the world.
   Alen laughed and added:
   – If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.
   – Well, I do believe in the possibility of a choice. As well as in that the whole life is not planned in advance and it does not depend on the will of God, but on the people to whom He has given life. I believe that each of our act, every thought creates our future.
   – And isn’t it frightening to live with such a philosophy; it’s scary to think of something as it may suddenly come true.
   – No, it’s not scary; it’s interesting. After all, this is the only way a person becomes the owner of his thoughts, and not vice versa.
   – And what about the past lives, do you believe in them?
   – Well, I somehow haven’t thought about it, but at least I do not want to believe, that there is nothing after death, – I philosophized.
   – And I believe in past lives and I think the feelings that I have for you are one of the many evidences of it. I feel like I knew you during one of my past lives.
   All this talk seemed to me a bit odd. On the other hand, there are so many things which human beings do not have a clue about, and yet it does not prevent their existence.
   – Who knows, maybe yes, maybe… – at this point, he closed my mouth with his soft lips. I did not feel the ground under my feet, and millions of butterflies tickled my stomach. Kiss left taste of opium and stupefied my mind.

   Our first kiss. According to one version of the origin of a kiss, in ancient times, people believed that the soul and the breath contain all the power of man. Therefore, the connection of breath of kissing ones was called the wedding of the souls. How very romantic!

   – I forgot to warn you; in my world, there is no place to a word NO. I guess I’m the most optimistic person on this planet.
   Once again, I lost control over myself. I had no idea how to react. Alen was very special.
   – And what do you do?
   – I am an estate agent.
   – I can’t believe my luck, – Alen jumped up. – I will take over the position of the Managing Director of the bank at one of our branches in New York. And, as you understand, I will need a house there.
   Everything happened too fast for me. I wasn’t able to find the brake pedal, and did not even want to find it.
   – Can I count on your help?
   – Of course, here is my business card. Give me a call, we can arrange a meeting, and I’ll show you a couple of houses.
   – Excellent! By the way, – Alen looked at the watch, – you can congratulate me. Thirty-five years ago, at exactly this time, Alen Moore came into this world.
   – Oh, – was all I could say.
   I was confused.
   – I’m so sorry that I do not have a present for you.
   Alen laughed out loudly.
   – Of course you have! You, you’re my gift from heaven. I knew it from the first moment I saw you in the bar.
   He reached out and took my hand in his. Again, million butterflies covered my stomach.
   – I know all that I have said before may sound strange, but I know that I do not need to pretend with you or hide my true feelings and play. I know I can trust you and be myself.
   This whole situation was more than unusual for me. But at the same time, I could not do anything about myself, and was more and more falling in love with this extraordinary man.
   It was the most memorable and romantic moment; and at the same time, the most madcap vacation in my life. Two weeks passed like two days.

Party for the Soldiers

   It was the middle of autumn, when the army was planning to stay in the same town where Masha lived. They were going to stop and destroy the enemy. All the locals were very pleased that the heroes would visit their city, and decided to organize a small party in their honor. Masha was among the organizers. Music and dancing were her responsibility. Oleg had to organize food and drinks.
   Masha already noticed that Oleg was looking at her every time he got a chance and that made her even more timid. Finally, he pulled together all his courage to approach and talk to her.
   – Hi, you have very beautiful hair.
   – Thank you, – said Masha, embarrassed.
   – Will you do me a favor, please? Promise me the first dance.
   Maria could not believe her ears. All that she could do was just nod as the sign of an agreement.
   The party was planned to start at seven in the evening. At six o’clock, Masha began to prepare. She loosened her hair, painted her cheeks with a rouge, put on her only glad rags – the dress with the little forget-me-nots, which perfectly matched the color of her eyes.
   – Daughter, what a beauty I have.
   Of course, the feelings of Masha to Oleg could not be escaped from such an observant woman like Anna Pavlovna was. But she decided not to show her awareness. If Masha wants to, she will share it with her.
   By nature, Anna Pavlovna was an inborn psychologist. If she were born at a later time, she would undoubtedly become a superb expert in this field. But she was destined to be born in the year 1910. When she was sixteen, her parents married her to, as they believed, a good match. Valery Ivanov was an educated young man, who was ten years older than Anna. Prominent, pleasant in communication, Valera was specialized in mechanical engineering. He almost never drank and, it seemed, that his only aim and sole purpose was to escape to the capital. But when he met Anna, for some unknown reason, he changed his mind.
   A year later, Masha was born, Maria Valerievna Ivanova. Unwittingly recalling her past to the point where Anna became a mother, she suddenly thought about the origin of the word, which is identical in almost all languages of the world. Anna remembered that somewhere she had read about an interesting version of its origin, which just crashed into her memory: “Mama” – the first word of a human who comes to this world. Maybe it was the first word of all mankind. Perhaps with this and other likewise “infant” words, our language began in ancient times. And the Romans used the word “mamma” for a woman’s breast, feeding her baby with milk.
   With the birth of Masha, the life of the spouses acquired a different meaning. The parents doted their new born daughter, who became the meaning of their existence.
   And now, she has become quite a young lady, and was going to a party in honor of the soldiers.

   Ten to seven, Masha was at the tent, where Oleg was waiting for her just at the entrance. When he saw her, he gave her one of his mind-blowing smiles, and like a true gentleman, offered her his arm.
   – You look great.
   Maria could not answer. Her heart began to beat like a locked bird, her hands got cold, and the whole body was covered with goose bumps. She just smiled and looked down at the toes of her shoes.
   Blissfully, they circled in the dance under the song “I love you life” performed by Mark Bernes.
//-- * * * --//
   They enjoyed spending their free time in nature, just lying on the grass, holding hands, kissing and dreaming. They dreamed of their future lives, about their children and even thought of their names.
   – You know, I often reflect on the fact why God allows the wars, disasters, famine and all other evil to happen.
   – Masha, dear, think yourself; people would be so bored in a completely perfect world, and besides, all the good and bad things are so interconnected with each other, that one wouldn’t exist without the other.
   – Maybe; but so much suffering around, so many deaths.
   – And you just imagine that the death is only kind of a state, exactly like life is.
   – You know, for my grandmother, everything was simpler: do a good thing and go to heaven; otherwise, you will not escape the fire of hell. What do you say to that?
   Oleg smiled and replied:
   – And my grandfather loved to tell the following parable.
   “One good man talked to God and asked him:
   – Lord, I would like to know what Heaven and Hell are.
   The Lord led him to two doors, opened one and conducted the good man inside. There was a huge round table in the middle of which stood a huge bowl filled with food that smelled delicious.
   The man felt that he had drooled ran down. The people sitting around the table looked hungry and sick. They all looked dying of hunger. All of them had spoons with long handles attached to their hands. They could get the bowl filled with food, and collect food, but because the handle at the spoons were too long, they could not bring the spoon to mouths. The good man was impressed by the sight of their misery. The Lord said: “You just saw the Hell.”
   The Lord and the kind man then went to the second door. The Lord opened it. The scene, which the good man saw was identical to the previous one. There was such a huge round table, the same giant thicket that made his mouth filled with saliva. The people sitting around the table kept the same spoons with very long handles. Only this time, they looked well-fed, happy and immersed in pleasant conversations with each other.
   The good man said to the Lord: ‘I do not understand.’
   – It’s just – the Lord said to him, – they have learned to feed each other. Others think only of themselves.
   Heaven and Hell have the same structure. The difference is within us.”

   Two months later, Oleg and Masha got engaged.
   A week later, during one of his pastimes in nature, Oleg said:
   – I decided to join the army.
   – I really appreciate your decision, but I would like you to stay here with me.
   – I know, my honey, but I just want to be useful to my country.
   – When do you plan to leave?
   – Next week.
   – So soon? – Masha’s eyes became wet from getting upset.
   – Please, don’t cry. I’ll write to you every day, I promise. And when I get back, we’ll get married.
   That night, Masha could not sleep a wink. She had a bad forefeeling. She did not want Oleg to leave, but at the same time, she knew that she could not persuade him to stay.
   “Tomorrow is the farewell day. If only he knew, how much I hate to say goodbye, even after every time I go out with him and know that we would meet the following day. If only he knew, how I dream to wish him good night, while falling asleep on his shoulder for again seeing him in my dream”, these were Mashas’s thoughts, as she tried to find her lost sleep.

   In the morning, the whole family went to the station to see Oleg off.
   It was very hard to be a good girl and not to weep. The last words, the last touch, one last kiss, and now he was on the train waving goodbye to them from the window.
   – I will write to you every day, I promise you, my sweetheart.
   Masha, with eyes full of tears, waved to Oleg and could not help remembering the story about Ivan Sergeyevich. Her grandmother used to tell her this unusual story:
   “Once a merry company – three boys and three girls – were traveling by bus in the countryside to the river. They expected the gentle sun, warm stones, refreshing breeze and a lot of fun. They loved and were loved. They gave joyful smiles to others. They wanted everybody to be happy.
   A young pretty man was sitting next to them. Each burst of joy and laughter responded with a pain on his gloomy face. It all made him shrink and he became even more unsociable.
   One of the girls didn’t sustain it anymore and sat down next to him. She learned that the gloomy man’s name was Ivan Sergeyevich. It turned out that he spent four years in prison and was now going home. This surprised the girl even more. Why was he so sad?
   – Are you married? – She asked.
   This simple question was followed by a strange answer:
   – I do not know.
   The girl asked in bewilderment:
   – You do not know?
   Ivan said:
   – When I was in prison, I wrote to my wife that I would be absent for a long time. If it becomes difficult to wait for me and if the kids start asking about me and it hurt her… Well, if she does not survive, albeit with a clear conscience, she may forget me. I would understand it, ‘Find for yourself another man, – I wrote to her. – And you don’t even have to inform me about it.’
   – You go home, not knowing what is waiting for you?
   – Yes – concealing his unrest with a difficulty, said Ivan.
   The girl’s glance was full of sympathy. Ivan could not help but share the main thing:
   – A week ago, when I was informed that due to a good behavior they let me go ahead of time, I wrote to her again. At the entrance to my home town, you will notice a large oak tree near the road. I wrote that if she needed me, then let her hang on it a yellow handkerchief. Then I would leave the bus and come back home. But if she does not want to see me, let her do nothing and I will drive past.
   It was getting closer and closer to the town. The young people took the front seats and began to count the miles. Tension grew in the bus. Exhausted, Ivan closed his eyes. Ten, then five kilometers were left… And suddenly, the passengers jumped to their feet, began to shout and dance from the joy.
   Looking out of the window, Ivan froze; all the branches of the oak were dotted with yellow handkerchiefs. Fluttering in the wind, they were greeting the man, who was about to return home.”

Back to New York

   Again back to New York, back to work…
   Now I had a new motivation, and it was, of course, Alen.
   After a few weeks, he was planning to move to New York. I really missed Alen, but also knew the longer the separation, the greater the happiness of the meeting. But I was so much looking forward to meeting him again.
   It was a warm evening. Strolling through the park in the moonlight, and thinking about our upcoming meeting, I wished I had a magic stick, and my only wish would be to be close to him. I went around the puddle, which reflected the full moon, and immediately thought of a wonderful Chinese belief which states that if you jump into the middle of the puddle, which reflects the full moon, your spirit immediately transports you to those whom you are missing.
   I just wanted to jump in a puddle and be in his arms. I took it as a sign of fate and trudged toward home.

   It was about six in the evening, and I was about to leave the office when my cell phone rang.
   Alen was in my office and could not wait to meet me.
   – Why didn‘t you tell me in advance that you were coming? I would have met you at the airport.
   – I wanted to make you a surprise for you. Hope you liked it.
   Alen stayed at the hotel “New York Dream” near Central Park, and we decided to take a little walk through the park.
   The next morning, I had to show him a few houses, where he could move in.
   At nine, Alen was in front of my office.
   When the phone display showed the number of the reception, I already knew that Katie, charming brunette receptionist, would notify me about the visit of a mysterious stranger. My heart began to beat faster. It felt a whole eternity, while I was going down with the elevator from the fifteenth floor to the entrance.
   – Hello. You are so elegant in this costume.
   – Thank you. How was your flight?
   – Excellent. Aircraft is my element.
   – Well, shall we start?
   It was around six in the evening, but not a hot day and it was nice to walk through the park in the company of a man who I liked so much.
   I showed him a few houses, and at the end, he chose the one that was a block away from the house where I lived. Of course, I was flattered, but at the same time a little nervous.
   It was all too good to be real.

   My longest relationship lasted nine months.
   Edward was an elegant tall brown-haired man with green eyes.
   Half – Russian, half – German, Eddie had an incredibly sharp mind. His mannerisms, the way he knew how to talk and joke, could not make any representative of the opposite sex remain indifferent. Always and everywhere he was, the soul of the crowd.
   It was a mutual love or rather amorousness at the first sight.
   The first three months we madly admired each other and were very happy despite the fact that even with me, Eddie had to be in the spotlight. He was constantly talking about himself and his feelings. At first I liked it, but eventually I realized that this bizarre need to constantly to talk about only himself, was nothing else than an inferiority complex. Soon, all of it started to annoy me. Frequent quarrels and strife had led to the fact that we almost ceased to communicate, the way the couples in love do it. We stopped working on our relationship. After all, as everything else, the relations also need to be worked on. They do not build themselves but require the active participation of both parties. Unfortunately, our relationship was not built on mutual respect and honesty, which held to the death of, at least, my feelings.
   With Alen, we managed to be in the ideal relationship for more than two years.
   A month later, after he moved to New York City, Alen asked me if I wanted to move in with him, which I did and never regretted about it.
//-- * * * --//
   On the weekend, we always spent our time outdoor, or as we called it, went to the “hike the nature”. Before another similar hiking, as usual, we were having a breakfast, and each of us read what he was interested in.
   – An intriguing title “Every mystery encompasses the horror of its disclosure”. Alen, listen, I will read it loud:
   Edith Giovanna Gassion, known to the world as Edith Piaf, the great singer, who was only one meter forty seven centimeters, during World War II continued to sing, mostly in camps of French prisoners of war in Germany, for which she has repeatedly been condemned for collaboration with the Germans, until it was known that in fact, Piaf collaborated with the resistance. After each concert, she was photographed with the prisoners, and upon returning to France, these photos were used for forgery of false documents. When she returned to the camp, Piaf passed a can of food, in which there were hidden passports and terrain maps. She helped to escape mainly the French labor prisoners. When the Germans noticed that someone escaped from prison every time after her arrival, she was summoned to the boss and told that she should no longer come for the performance in Germany. To all the attempts at resistance, the Germans only said that they know everything that she did. Piaf pretended not to understand what it was about, and she was just politely asked not to appear in the camps. Only because of the great love and respect for the singer, she was released. It is unbelievable how much courage and humanity was in this small stature, but an incredibly big hearted and souled woman – legend. It turns out that miracles happened and still happen, you just need to be able to see them.
   – What a secret! And who would have thought, that such an innocent act like a concert for the prisoners of war would turn out into something like this. All of this is certainly interesting, but if now you won’t drink up your coffee and be finished with the breakfast, we will have to postpone our plans, because I have matured other, not less alluring plans, and the reason for this is that you look fucking attractive in my shirt.
   As soon as he finished talking, Alen rushed to me without giving me a chance even to understand what he just said. Still being under the impression of the just read story, I could not react on time and was already in his strong arms. I could feel his flesh and breathed his rapid breathing, soaked in morning coffee with milk.

   Usually, I was driving, and Alen entertained me with many funny and sometimes abstruse and philosophical stories.
   My favorite story, which Alen every time told with such a feeling, that it every time took my breath away, was how God created a woman. And it sounds as follows:
   When God created a woman, he was working late on the sixth day.
   An angel who was passing by asked: “Why do you work on her for such a long time?”
   And the Lord said, “Have you seen all the specifications in accordance with which I have to create her? She should have more than two hundred moving parts, and they all must be replaceable, and any food shall make her function. She must be able to embrace several children simultaneously. With her hug she shall cure everything – from a bruised knee to a broken heart. And all this she has to do with only one pair of hands.”
   The angel was astounded: “Just two hands… impossible! Too much work for one day, why don’t you make a pause and complete her tomorrow.”
   “No,” – said the Lord. – “I am so close to finishing this creation, which is going to be my most favorite. She cures herself when sick. And she can work up to 18 hours a day.”
   The angel moved closer and touched the woman.
   “But, Lord, you have made her so soft.”
   “Yes, she is gentle,” – said the Lord. “But I also made her strong. You even cannot imagine what she is in force to endure and overcome.”
   “Can she think?” – The angel asked.
   The Lord replied, “She can not only think, but make decisions, persuade and reach an agreement.”
   The angel touched the women’s cheek…
   “Apparently, this creation is leaking! You have put too many burdens on her…”
   “It does not leak, those are tears,” – the Lord corrected the angel Lord.
   “What’s that for?” – The angel asked.
   And the Lord said: “With the tears, she expresses her grief, doubt, suffering, happiness, joy and love.”
   This had a rare impression on the angel, “Lord, you are a genius, you thought of everything. The woman is really an amazing creation!”
   And it’s true! A woman has the power, which amazes a man; she can handle trouble and carry heavy burdens. She brings happiness, love and understanding. She fights for what she believes, rebels against an injustice, does not accept failure, when she sees the best solution. She gives all of herself to her family. Her love is unconditional. Her heart is broken with grief when her relatives or friends die. But she finds the strength to live on. She just has one drawback: she forgets about her merits.
   To this story, I usually answered with a different story:
   When God created Eve, after some time, she got bored and she turned to God:
   “Please, do not think of me as of an ungrateful creature, as you have created everything for my happiness and joy, but I am missing something”.
   Then she received the following response:
   “Well, in this case, I will create a male for you.”
   Seeing the surprise and questions on the eyes of Eve, God said:
   “The male – is a creature, who will get on your nerves, will treat you like a property, but will also protect and love you, and you won’t be able to live without him anymore. But there is one condition, between us girls, let him think that I first created him.
//-- * * * --//
   It was the two-year anniversary of our relationship, and we decided to celebrate it in our favorite way – a picnic in the countryside. At this time, Alen insisted on driving. I did not want to give up, but I could not convince him. Although the weather forecast promised a sunny and warm day, the morning was so foggy that we could barely see the road.
   – Alen, dear, let’s stop.
   Something was going on with Alen. I could not even convince him to make a short stop.
   It all happened too fast.
   When I woke up, I was in the hospital and almost didn’t remember anything.
   – Alen, where is Alen?
   – Do not worry; he is in the room next to you. You both must have guardian angels, which made sure that you survive and escape the accident only with light injuries. You have a slight concussion. Alen has couple of broken ribs. Just the other guy had not much luck; he’s still in a heavy condition, – the nurse explained the situation.
   Yes, exactly, we were driving through the fog, when suddenly a man appeared on the road, and Alen did not have time to slow down.
   The situation went out of control, and we got into a road accident.
   – Can I visit Alen?
   – Of course, I will organize a wheelchair.
   Fifteen minutes later, I could see Alen.
   – I’m so sorry.
   – Don’t – I tried to calm him down.
   Broken ribs caused Alen unbearable pain, and he had to take painkillers, which made him very tired. Along with fatigue, Alen became incredibly irritated and nervous.
   Everything got on his nerves, even me!

If Only He Knew How Much I Hate Waiting

   Oleg kept his word. He wrote almost every day. Masha received his letters once a week. At this one time she would receive a whole stack of letters. She would first sort them out by date, then open the envelopes with lust and start reading.
   “Hello, my sweetheart. I want you to know how much I miss and love you. You may say I was not forced to be so far away from you, and you will be right, but as I said, it was my duty to serve my country. I hope you understand me.
   All I see here is unbearable. So many guys got injured and suffered, so much blood around. Not to mention the death, which constantly and everywhere haunt us.
   But let’s not talk about sad things.
   I am sure that the war will soon be over, and after I have served my country, I will return to you, and we’ll get married. We will make sure that everything what we dreamed of, will become a reality.
   Now I kiss you and wish you a good night. See you tomorrow.”
   All the letters, with a very slight difference in the content, Masha kept under her pillow and before sleeping reread them again and again.
   About a month later, as Oleg went to the army, Masha received a letter in which he excitedly wrote to her about Andrei – his new friend, a comrade, even more, his brother who he had always dreamed of. Although he had two elder brothers, Oleg felt lonely, like an only child. He had no relationship with his brothers; they were too different and had nothing in common except their parents.
   Andrei, as it turned out, was very similar to Oleg. They had similar thoughts and had the same values in life.
   In one of his letters, Oleg sent the photo, where he and Andrei proudly look into the lens. What a surprise! Oleg has changed a bit, he looked tired and thin.
   Masha could not stop staring at the photo. She could not believe her eyes. If a stranger looked at the picture, he certainly would think that these guys were brothers.
   Andrei was the same age as Oleg, and two weeks ago, he also voluntarily joined the army. Now Oleg’s letters colorfully described not only about the situation on the border, but also about his new friend – Andrei.

Everything once comes to An End, Alas

   How deceptively time is! If you are happy, the days seem to be instant, and vice versa, the hard and difficult times seem to last forever.
   A month spent in the hospital seemed a year.
   Ever since we got back home, the relationship was no longer the same. For me, it was very hard to understand and accept everything, and yet it was the reality. Even a very simple thing kept on going on Alen’s nerves. All the simplicity of our relationship had evaporated.
   Now we endlessly tortured each other.
   I did everything possible to understand what caused the change. After the accident, I was full of patience and understanding with Alen, and I was sure that the reason was the accident. But a month later, my confidence vanished. Moreover, I knew that an accident, of course, had ist influence on it but it could not be the reason of such a rapid destruction of our relations. Our relationship had collapsed like a house of cards. I noticed that most of the time, Alen was trying to create problems and portrayed hardness and roughness, as if he needed to break a relationship with me. It was as if he was looking for a reason.
   I knew it could not last forever, and one of us had to put an end to all of this.
   – I really love you, but we’re not the right ones for each other, at least not in this life.
   – Alen, can you please be serious at least for now?
   – I am serious. Soon you will learn all, just only when the right time comes.
   – Nonsense!
   He came up to me and took my face in his hands.
   – Adri, God knows, you’re just the one, whom I would never cause pain. I know that it is very hard to get, but sooner or later, you will understand what I mean. Just remember, nothing in life happens just like that, without any reason, – he said and went on packing his belongings.
   Alen got a new job offer in Philadelphia and was going to move there next week.
   What a strange thing love is: you clearly understand that it is worth to give it up because of the fear of suffering and being abandoned. But still we love. Just the same way as we love the life, even though we know that one day, it will leave us.

   We put an end to our relationship a week ago and, coincidentally, since a week I have this strange feeling of being watched. Do I have some sort of a form of phobia, paranoia, or, even worse, schizophrenia?

News

   It’s been more than two weeks, since Masha received the last letter from Oleg.
   At first, Masha thought that they should have got lost on the way to her. Eventually, all these letters were doing their long way from the boarder. But after a while, she lost her sleep and could not eat any more. All her thoughts were about Oleg and the war. What could have happened? Why did he stop writing?

   It was a sunny day in May. Everyone was happy about the great news. The war was over, the enemy was destroyed and the Red Army had acquired victory. But even this news could not calm Masha down.
   By the end of the week, a young man came to visit her. She recognized him at the first sight.
   – Andrei? – She had felt as if she already knew him. Oleg described him so well in his letters.
   Masha’s legs refused to hold her.
   He held out his hand, and they entered the house.
   – I’m so sorry that I have to tell you about it. Oleg died in my arms, and I could not save him. I did my best, – tears streamed down his face – He was like a brother to me. I had to be in his place, he just saved my life, and I could not do anything for him. His last words were about you. I promised to take care of you.
   Andrei brought with him Oleg’s belongings and the news that changed Masha’s whole life.

   Now, when she learned about Oleg’s death, Masha felt lost. All her plans were related with him, Oleg was in all her dreams, which will never come true.
   How should she continue to live without Oleg, who was air for her?
   Is it possible to live without air, without breathing?
   – Time, only time can heal the wounds, – Masha heard from all sides. Everyone spoke these words in the hope that they would comfort her.
   Everything stopped existing for Masha. Maybe if she saw Oleg dead, it would be easier for her to let him go. Every night, Oleg visited Masha in her dreams. He looked beautiful, healthy and happy and always smiled at her. She did not want to wake up. Daytome turned into nightmare for her. All she wanted was to sleep and never wake up. At least, in her dreams, she could be with Oleg.

   – Masha, sweetheart, at least for the sake of Oleg, please eat just a piece.
   Svetlana was trying to persuade Masha without any success.
   – I cannot.
   – And you try even if you cannot. Oleg would definitely not like to see you in such a condition.
   – That’s it, “would”. But he does not see.
   – And I’m not quite sure about it. What if he sees all and suffers because of his frustration of not being able to help you? Have you ever thought about it?
   This question made Masha think. And what if all that we are taught, all that is imposed on us, in reality, quite different? What if, as Oleg believed himself, death is nothing but a kind of a state of being, just like the life is?

Richard

   After I booked a trip to Hawaii, I decided to go shopping. I was so scattered, that while watching one of the shop – windows next to the travel agency where I booked a ticket, I run into a stranger.
   – Oh, excuse me.
   – Don’t worry, it’s ok. Eventually, I do not get run into by such beauties every day.
   I felt how the color of my face began to change.
   I turned to leave, when the stranger said:
   – Excuse me, please, do not take me for a cool fish, but I hope you will not be against, if I invite you for a cup of coffee.
   What a surprise! I mean, I did not look my best, just recently broke up my relationship with Alen, and I was going to run away from myself and my problems to a happy island – Hawaii, and, voila, someone wants to invite me for a cup of coffee.
   – I’m afraid it’s not possible – I said, and for the first time looked at his face. He seemed familiar.
   – You do not want to spoil my day, don’t you? Please, only a small cup of coffee.
   – I’m sorry, but I do not have time. I am preparing for my holiday and I need to do some shopping. Sorry if I disappoint you, – I added for some reason.
   – Well, in that case, I’ll wait for your call when you return from vacation. Here is my business card. Please promise me, that you will give me a call as soon as possible.
   – Okay, I promise – I agreed, feeling that it is the only best way to get rid of him.
   – I hope you are one of those ladies, who keep their word.
   – Well, in that case, here’s my card, if I lose yours, – I said, giving him one of my innocent smiles for goodbye.
   – Thank you so much, Adriana.

   During the walk, I had a look at the business card of the stranger.
   Richard McGregor, General Director of “Globus”.
   That name seemed familiar to me also.
   I put the card into my wallet and concentrated on shopping, which took me half an hour. Finally, I was ready to pack the suitcases.

Àndrey

   To get over Oleg‘s death was for Andrei not easier than for Masha. Andrei was the only child in the family and as long as he could remember, he wanted a sibling. But he never got any.
   And now that he had finally found a soul mate, who became like a brother for him, Oleg left. It’s just not fair. Oleg’s parents were in a deep sorrow. They lost their youngest son.
   Andrei wanted to put an end to their grief, and see the last of Masha’s sadness, but he did not know how to do it. He had promised Oleg that he would take care of Masha, so he visited her every day.
   After some time, Andrei moved to Saratov from Volzhsky region, in order to save time on a daily trip. Now he could better fulfill his promises to Oleg.
   Six months later, it seemed that Masha’s sadness started to recede, but something was still lacking in her. She lived too inert. There was no life in her eyes and her laughter had no joy. Part of her died with Oleg, and the other part was struggling and trying to survive. All this caused unbearable heartache to Andrei. He did everything he could, but nothing could bring back Masha to life. Masha too often kept on remembering about Oleg. And yet a memory is a strange artist: it renews the colors of life and erases the gray shades, retaining only the brightest colors and the most expressive silhouettes.

   Andrei was very surprised when he found that sometimes, his thoughts were about Masha. He began to look at her differently; he began to notice a young woman in her, and wanted to make her happy; not just because he had promised his best friend to take care of her, but because he wanted it himself.
   It took another six months, until he plucked up his courage and talked about it with Masha.
   – The thing that you will hear now may shock you, but, please, do not answer. Promise me that you will think about what I’m going to tell you, and give an answer when you’re ready.
   A little blaze appeared in Masha’s eyes. At least, it seemed to him.
   – All right, I promise.
   – I understand the absurdity of the situation… I would like you to be my wife.
   The tears rolled out of Masha’s eyes. She did not know how she should react. Thanks God she did not have to answer right away.
   – Honey, I really love you, and I do not want you to cry. Please do not rush with the answer, – said Andrei and left, realizing that Masha would like to be alone.

Hawaii

   And once again, this feeling of the humid air cuddling you, and make all the problems immediately disappear.
   I think this island has a magical ability, at least temporarily, to erase all the negativity and charge its guests only positive vibes.
   I got to the hotel, unpacked, had a shower and was thinking about where to go, when my hotel phone rang. I was surprised, because no one knew I was on holiday; besides, my colleagues and, of course, Sue; but if it was her, why would she call me on the hotel phone and not on my mobile.
   When I picked up the phone, I heard the voice of a stranger.
   – Good afternoon. I hope you had a pleasant trip.
   – Thank you, everything was fine. May I ask who I am talking to?
   – Oh, sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. This is Richard. Richard McGregor.
   – I’m sorry, but I do not know anyone named Richard McGregor.
   – Don’t you? And what about the stranger whom you run into a few days ago? Of course, I didn’t expect you to remember me, but at least I hoped.
   My memory was refreshed. I also remembered that during the conversation with him, I did not mention that I was leaving for Hawaii.
   – Oh yeah, I remembered. But how do you know where I am?
   – I’ll tell you everything if you promise me to go out with me tonight for a dinner.
   – I cannot believe it! So you are also in Hawaii?
   – Yes, correctly guessed. Would around seven in the evening be OK for you?
   – I think so.
   – Well, then see you at seven in the hotel lobby.

   I felt both excited and nervous. How could this stranger know at which hotel I stopped? All this seemed to me very mysterious, interesting and at the same time bothering.
   It was very hard to concentrate on the make-up, and even more difficult to decide what I would wear for the dinner. At the end I chose the dress with tiny forget-me-nots.

Decision

   It took Masha a week till she could tell Andrei about her decision. She knew the answer right from the beginning. She shed tears of happiness, but it would be too complicated to explain all of that at that moment.
   She liked Andrei a lot, even more, she was in love with him. But how could she possibly tell about it to anyone, when she herself did not want to accept this fact. The thought that she liked him, forced Masha to feel guilty. She was not even sure if Andrei was giving her all that attention because he liked her. She thought he was keeping the word he gave to Oleg. And now, when she was sure that Andrei just loved her as well, and even wanted to marry her, a stone fell from her soul. But she still had not enough courage to answer.
   A week later, Andrei came to visit her. Masha felt very awkward and shy.
   – Yes, I agree – she said before he could repeat the question, and saved herself from another burst of tears; but she again flushed.
   – I hate it so much, when I get so red just like a cooked lobster.
   Andrew laughed, hugged her and kissing her gently, said:
   – And I love you even red. My grandfather said, those who are able to blush, cannot have a black heart. And now I’ll go and ask for your hand from your father and for a blessing from your mother.

   The wedding was scheduled for the following month. Half of the town was invited.
   Masha was over excited and happy. She couldn’t believe that after all she had gone through, she could be happy again.
   She did not know yet, that she would even be happier, when she give birth to their son. From the very first moment when they found out that Masha was pregnant, the son’s name was out of discussion. Oleg.

New relations

   At five past six, I was in the lobby. Richard McGregor sat at the bar, and judging from the amount of content of his glass, not just five minutes. He was wearing beige pants and a linen shirt. As soon as he saw me, he came up to me and, like a magician, handed me a maroon rose.
   – There you are. Do you mind if we go to “you is?”
   I nodded.
   – Do you love seafood?
   I nodded again, and the first thing that came to my mind was that probably I left an impression of a dumb fish.
   – Then let’s go to the restaurant “Ocean Princess”. They have the best seafood on the island.
   A red cabriolet was standing right in front of the hotel. Again like a numb, I could not utter a word. I react like that when I am over excited or too nervous. At this time, my dumbness was caused by both of these conditions.
   I was sure I had never met this man, but at the same time, he seemed very familiar.
   When we took our seats in the restaurant, I gathered all my courage and asked:
   – So, how you…did you find out where exactly I booked my vacation and at which hotel I stopped?
   Richard looked at me as if he was just waiting for this question.
   – Globus.
   – I beg your pardon?
   – The agency through which you booked the trip – “Globus”. I am one of the three shareholders and CEO.
   I blushed and, took a sip of water, as if it would help erase the color of my face caused by my own stupidity and carelessness. The answer to the question, which did not leave me alone all day, was right in my purse, but I did not even bother to get my brain to work.
   – You should not blame yourself and think how silly you are, because the answer was all the time in your pocket or purse – he took me aback.
   – And why would I think that? I absolutely do not think so, – I tried to be convincing as much as possible and continued to drink water.
   – Well, how should I explain it? Your eyes and body language have given your thoughts away. You shouldn’t think like that about yourself. Usually, when people are going on a holiday, they almost never remember the name of the travel agency, which booked their trip. People book their desired vacation and spend the remaining days looking forward to the time awaiting them during the holidays.
   These words made me feel better.
   – You know, I have noticed that most of the people live in a constant anticipation of something, as if the expectation itself is the joy of their existence. They book their holiday and are looking forward to it. And as soon as they go on a vacation, they do not know how to enjoy it. And then start looking for the claims and walk around with an unhappy faces. Or let’s say, a couple is looking forward to their first child, and as soon as he/she is born, in a few months, the couple starts to complain how difficult it is, that they never get enough sleep. And again, they start looking for something to re-wait, instead of enjoying what they have.
   – True, I somehow didn’t think of that. It turns out that people knowingly or unconsciously try to escape from the present, from now, and live within the past or future.
   – That’s it. I believe, only the wise people appreciate what they have and, while sincerely and heartily enjoying it, live in the present moment.
   – But then, it makes no sense to dream. Then it’s a waste of time or what?
   – No way. It is even necessary to dream for expanding the borders of the imagination, but there is no need to constantly dwell on dreams or on the thought “if only I have this or that, I will be happy”. You will not be happy even if all your dreams come true. It’s the nature of a human. If one is not happy with what he has, he will unlikely be happy when he has achieved his goal. It is important to learn to love the life the way it is now. And that is a great art.

   Despite the philosophical conversation, the evening was very pleasurable and relaxing, just what I needed after all that I had gone through.
   Richard had an amazing ability to make me feel comfortable… comfortable with myself and with the world surrounding me and him. He inspired a great confidence.
   After a while, I could trust him all my secrets and talk about everything that bothered me.
   I even told him about my everyday concerns: about my past relationships, about Alen.
   I was looking forward to his thoughts on the whole, what I had experienced.
   But to my surprise, Richard did not comment, he just looked deeply into my eyes, took my head in his hands and kissed me on the forehead.
   We spent every day of my holiday together. Surprisingly, I did not mind.
   Slowly but surely, Richard irrevocably entered into my life.

Life

   On one sunny day in May, when everyone was celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Victory Day, Masha learned that she has a fatal disease.
   Cancer was spreading within her with an enormous speed. The doctors told, that she had maximum one year left to live.
   Although things looked too bad, Masha didn’t grieve. This news made her feel again the happiest woman on the earth. Due to the death, she could soon meet Andrei, who passed away a few months ago. And soon, it will be her turn.
   Masha could proudly say that she had a good life and there were many important people, who shared with her both the sorrows and the happy moments in her life.
   She became a young grandmother thanks to her son Oleg.
   Masha’s granddaughter – Maria was a very curious girl. She showed a particular interest in the life of her grandma, Masha. Although she was only five, for her age, Maria knew a lot about life.
   She was interested in everything that Masha experienced in her life. But the favorite story from the life of Grandma was part, how and where she met her grandfather.
   As the months passed, Masha felt herself worse and weaker. She felt that these were her last days. She was looking forward to a new meeting with Andrei, and who knows, maybe she would also meet Oleg – her first love.
   It was a usual sunny August day, and, as usual, Maria asked grandma Masha to tell her the favorite story.
   None of them could have imagined that this was the last time.
   Masha went to sleep at night and never woke up.

The big step

   Noooo, please stop – Adriana laughed and tried fetch away from the strong hands of Richard, who tirelessly tickled her.
   – Oh, please, I even cannot breathe.
   – Then, what’s the answer?
   – I do not know. – As soon as Adriana finished the sentence, Richard jumped up and grabbed her again.
   Now Richard looked very satisfied and happy.
   – I promise, I’ll call them and ask when we can visit them.
   – Good girl! So, take the phone and make the call.
   – Richard, but I didn’t mean that I will do so immediately.
   – I see, it means, you meant to do it maybe sometimes next year, right? Well then, I think someone is not going to be able to breathe, – and he again began to tickle her.
   – All right, I give up and will call them right away, just stop please.
   Now Richard had a big satisfied smile on his face.
   – Mom? Hi Mom. How are you, how is dad?
   – Adriana, honey, I’m so glad you called. We’re fine. How are you? We miss you so much.
   – Glad to hear that you are all well. Everything is fine. And I also miss you very much, and guess what….
   – Will you come to see us?
   – Yes, and I will not come alone.
   – What? Do you mean with a young man?
   – Right, you got it.
   – And is he cute? What’s his name? Tell me everything.
   – Mom, patience. Tell me when it will be convenient for you and dad and we will visit you.
   – How about next Saturday? Daughter, I am so excited.
   – Excellent. Then wait for us around six in the evening. Love you mommy and hug dad for me.
   All this time, Richard was watching Adriana with a big smile on his face.
   – Satisfied?
   – Yes, yes, and once again yes, – he kissed her on the lips.

   It has been already half a year, since I’ve been living together with Richard, but I still have not introduced him to my parents. He badly wanted to meet them, but I was not sure whether it was a good idea and each time postponed the meeting. But this time, he was resolute and did not want to retreat.
   And here we are, on the way to my parents, to the house on Tony River, where I grew up, where my home is.
   – Are you nervous?
   – Me? Of course not; and why should I be nervous, I’m visiting my parents. Currently, if someone has to be nervous, then it’s you.
   – OK, will you be nervous, if I ask you to marry me?
   I could not believe my ears. I felt that he was up to something, but was not sure what it was about.
   Recently Richard was different, somehow too excited. So, that’s what all the fuss was about.
   – Well, not quite. Only if you haven‘t decided to ask for my hand from dad on your knees.
   – You know me better than I do. That’s what I’m going to do.
   I started laughing hysterically.
   – Well, good joke.
   Richard suddenly stopped the car and got out of it, opened the trunk and came back with an incredibly beautiful bouquet.
   – Maybe it’s not the most romantic proposal, which a woman can imagine, but lately I was so excited, that all the thoughts were about how and when I should make a proposal, and at the end I decided to do it on the way to your parents’ home. You haven’t yet introduced me to them, and I was not sure whether you took me serious or not, because I remember, once you said that it’d be a big step for you to introduce the one with whom you date or with whom you live to your parents. And now, when you agreed to introduce me to them, which is an indication that you take me serious, I decided to make a marriage proposal. Do you understand me, Adri?
   Poor Richard, his hands were shaking and his voice trembled.
   – Of course, my dear, I know what you mean. And you’re right. To introduce the one who I date with to my parents is a big step for me. And you mean a lot to me, I cannot imagine my life without you. You completely took over my heart. And, yes, I would be happy to become your wife.
   A passionate kiss sealed our decision to create a family.

   My parents’ house is like a holiday home. It is located right at the seafront. Every time I visit them, I have a feeling that I’m at a resort and the whole year I have no need for a vacation by the sea.
   This time, it was more than just visiting my parents. I was a little nervous, although I did everything not to show it to Richard.

   The evening with my parents was excellent, as always. Excellent dinner with excellent wine, followed by my favorite dessert made me go back to my carefree days when I lived under the parental authority. But the highlight of the evening was how my parents got along with Richard.
   – We are happy to inform you about our recent decision – we decided to get married – said Richard.
   It turned out that Mom and Dad were not surprised. It seemed that they could see Richard through and read him like an open book, which told them in advance about all the next actions.
   – Our blessings. We are happy for you, – said my father and came up to us to give us a hug, while my mother was wiping away tears of happiness.

What a surprise

   Since we broke up with Alen, I had never visited the places where we used to go together with him. Everything that happened was still unclear for me and was still hurting me.
   Once Richard told me that he booked a table for an evening in the restaurant “Orchid of Love.” It was our favorite restaurant with Alen.
   – Let’s have a walk there, the restaurant is not far away from here, – I suggested.
   We were on the way to the restaurant, when suddenly it seemed to me that I saw Alen.
   I knew it could not be true, because he was in Philadelphia. But the man I saw looked so much like him. Richard suddenly called out:
   – Hey, Alen – the old man, what a surprise!
   – Richie!
   And then the two men embraced each other as if they knew each other for ages.
   My world began to crumble again. I didn’t understand anything. Suddenly, I had thousand questions in my mind.
   – I think you’re familiar with my fiancee, Adri.
   – Hi, Adri. How are you? You look amazing.
   – Thank you, – was all I could squeeze out, blushing.
   – What are you doing here? I did not know you were in New York, – Richard asked.
   – I came last night. Today I had important negotiations, and I am leaving back to Philadelphia tomorrow.
   – What a pity, I thought it would be great to meet for a drink and chat.
   – With pleasure, how about tomorrow night?
   – OK, for me. And you Adri, do you mind?
   – Tomorrow I am invited to Sue’s evening lecture, and then we’ll go to a bar.
   – In that case, I hope you will not mind if I spend the evening with Richard – in the company of an old friend, – added Alen with a smile.
   – I was very happy to meet you, Alen. See you tomorrow, buddy. Here is my new number, give me a call and we’ll arrange something.
   – Be sure, I will call, take care, Adri.
   We had the most romantic table in the entire restaurant, which offered a wonderful view.
   – You, I mean you and Alen, did it seem to me or you really know each other well?
   – I know this may seem very strange to you. Yes, you noticed correctly, we’ve known each other for a long time. I met Alen during the war in Iraq. He saved my life.
   – I did not know that you fought, – it all seemed terribly familiar to me, as if I had already experienced it all.
   – I know, honey. Simply, I do not like to talk about it. But maybe I did a mistake and had to tell you about it.
   – And what else I do not know about my future husband?
   – Are you sure you want to know everything?
   – I’m sure.
   – I promise to tell you everything later, but now let’s enjoy the dinner.

The evening with Sue

   – Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your interest in my lecture, which is devoted to the history of tights and perfume.
   As we all know, these two attributes are an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe, which not always used to be the case, at least, if we bear in mind the tights. Certainly, few of you know that this garment was originally intended to be used exclusively for men. But let’s go through it step by step. It is hard to imagine, but there are rumors that tights first appeared in 148 BC in Persia.
   We also know that the homeland of the tights is England. The ancestors of modern pantyhose are the socks; the distant relatives are knee – highs and the direct parents – the stockings.
   And in the 16th century, with the invention of the knitting machine, the socks and tights have become widely available and were often made out of wool.
   It is quite funny to imagine, but the pantyhose evolved on… men’s feet. Yes, yes, on these thick, hairy and crooked – columns that trample other people’s land during the brutal wars.
   Already in the 6th century BC, the Celtic spearmen realized that it would be more comfortable to wear the spears on the British roads, if the feet wear soft slippers made out îf leather of a non-castrated bull. This fashion was picked up by the Roman legionaries, who landed on British island at the kin of the era, and modernized the slippers to the form of the socks.
   The Anglo-Saxon warriors, who invaded the same country in the 5th century, stepped even further and extended the socks to the knee – highs. And in the 11th century, the Normans who successfully conquered England decided to pull up the short knee – highs on thighs, thereby turning them into stockings.
   For many centuries, men did not allow the poor women close to the stockings, reasonably believing that afterwards, their hosiery monopoly would come to an end.
   But the evolution has done its dark deed, and in 1940s, a fashion on the tights was introduced by an actress and dancer Ann Miller.
   Until the mid of 1960s, the women had no need for the pantyhose, as they wore stockings under the relatively long skirts. But with the invention of a mini-skirt by an Englishwoman Mary Quant, the need for a radically new product was on demand.
   So in early 60’s, Allan Gant Senior developed the first model of “tights”.
   In 1938, DuPont, the French immigrant, invented nylon, the first synthetic fiber, which has an extraordinary strength, and in 1959, Lycra (LYCRA) was created – a new, more flexible textured yarn of nylon called elastane, that improves the fitting and appearance, which currently makes a wide range and variety of tights.

   The name “pantyhose” was derived from the American “panties” (panty) – a term used for the pair of drawers, based on the closed section at the top, and “leggings” (hose) to denote the stocking. These “tights” were literally stockings and panties sewn together. They have been developed to eliminate the need for dressing of several different layers of underwear. The first tights had the upper part in the form of white cotton panties, but with time, they were entirely made of the same material.
   In the UK, the term “tights” is used as a common name, regardless of weight, texture or material. However, in America, besides this term, the old “pantyhose” is maintained, which is used to distinguish the tights with low density (den).
   Americans use the term “tights” to indicate thicker opaque tights, to which wool is also added.
   The tights are so firmly established in the everyday life of every woman that nowadays it is very difficult to imagine how one could do without them.
   The same can be said about another attribute that complements modern toilet of homo sapiens.

   Throughout the history of mankind, the perfumery played a huge role in a person’s life, who since ancient times tried to look better, smell better and feel better – to put in shortly, to be the best. Most of us do not think about how long ago the perfumes appeared – we just know that we want to take advantage of our favorite scent to feel attractive and irresistible. However, even if superficially to take a look at the history of perfume, you can see that this was not the original purposes of the drafters of the aromatic compositions.
   The “invention” of the perfume is credited to the ancient Egyptians. The first perfume was actually the spices, aromatic substances, which was burned during religious ceremonies. The ancient Greeks and Romans used the aromatic substances for the same purpose. Moreover, the word “perfume” comes from the Latin “per fumum”, which means “through smoke”. Exactly by burning aromatic wood and resins, our ancestors got the incense – the first perfumes that were used for religious ceremonies and rituals. The temples had special vessels, where the faithful were to merge sacrificial oil. The frankincense was considered as the most appropriate sacrificial gift.
   The evolution of the perfumes occurs simultaneously with the emergence and improvement of primitive decorative cosmetic. The decorative cosmetic likewise the incense was not meant for attracting the opposite sex; their purpose was to bring the grace of God.
   The Egyptians were very religious. That is why they were so serious about the art of making perfumes – they believed that the gods would be favorable to them, if they smell good, if they surround themselves with pleasant smells. Moreover, even after death, Egyptians managed to exude not a rigor stench, but a pleasant aroma.
   The ancient Egyptians believed in the transmigration of souls. In their opinion, after a human soul leaves the body, it moves into an animal, and for three thousand years, it is embodied in the form of various creatures, until, finally, again takes a human form. This belief explains the excessive care with which the Egyptians embalmed the dead bodies, so that the soul after a long journey could find its old shell and return into it. During the embalming, the body cavity purified from the viscera was filled by crushed myrrh, cassia and other aromatics, except the frankincense. Several times a year, the mummy was recovered and memorial rites of remembrance were made on them with great honors. These rituals included the burning of incense and ritual libations. The aromatic oils were poured over the head of the mummy.

   The incenses were prepared by priests in the temples with the standard recipes, the texts of which were carved on the stone walls. The volume and weight ratios of the components, the duration of treatments and outputs losses were mentioned in the recipes. Thus, the ancient Egyptian priests can be called the first professional perfumers.
   Over the years, only priests, who performed religious rites and rare rich people, used the incense and perfume. Over time, those who were rich and powerful enough to afford to buy the flavors began to use them not only for religious ceremonies, but also with more mundane purpose. In order to smell pleasant, the aromatic wood and the tar of aromatic substances were soaked in water and oil, and then the whole body was lubricated by this liquid. When this practice became common, the priests were forced to abandon the “monopoly” on the precious flavors. Continuing to be present in all religious rites, the aromatic substances are increasingly being used in means of hygiene. The next logical step was the usage of the aromatic oils in baths. The luxury baths of ancient Greeks and Romans owe their existence to cleanly Egyptians. Aromatic oils protected their skin from drying out in hot climates. This is how the primitive moisturizing creams and ointment revealed themselves.
   Soon, the scented oils were added to the natural plant resins and balsams, which were used by the athletes before competition and lovely Thais – for seduction and pleasure. A whole ritual of a serial application of the aromas was produced during marriage. Greeks were the first in the history, who began to add in the herbs and spices to the composition of a perfume (nowadays none of any oriental fragrance can do without them) as well as fragrant floral oils; the roses, lilies or violets, which had a special honor for the Greeks, were often used. In ancient Greece, there are the first official perfumers who formed scented oils composition of saffron, iris, sage, lily, anise, cinnamon. They say that the Greeks were the first who managed to create a liquid perfume, although they were significantly different from the modern analogue. For the preparation of perfumes, Greeks used a mixture of aromatic oils and powders (particularly olive and almond) – and no alcohol.
   After the ancient Greece and the East, the perfume permeated to the Ancient Rome. The ancient Romans, who carefully looked after the hygiene, oiled body several times a day, and not only the body but also the hair. In the Roman baths (thermae), one could find vessels of all sizes and shapes filled with aromatic oils which suited any taste. The Romans took a bath at least three times a day; this is why at the homes of the wealthy Romans there were always a reservoir of essential oils and other aromatic substances. The Romans also used the perfume for flavoring the space, especially during feasts, where a lot of people gathered. They would apply the perfume to the wings of pigeons, and then the birds were released into the room. While flying, the birds would spray the perfume and would aromatize the air. In addition to that, the slaves would during the feasts spray some perfume on the heads of guests with the purpose of refreshing them.
   When Nero Pompey’s wife died, he ordered to burn in her honor more incense, than Arabia could produce in ten years.
   The Romans, like the Greeks, contributed their share to the improvement of the technique of making perfumes. They began to use the technique of maceration (immersing aromatic substances in oil) and distillation under pressure. The raw materials for the fragrance were delivered from Egypt, India, Africa and Arabia. And the Romans were the first to discover the healing properties in many of the aromatic substances.
   The love to odors peaked at the time when the empire was falling into decay. The perfume was poured even in front of the houses, on the furniture and military equipment, as well as on dogs and horses.
   With the emersion and development of the Christian religion, the extensive use of aromatics was frozen in everyday life and during religious ceremonies (the perfume was associated with the frivolity). After the fall of the Roman Empire, the use of odors began to wane; European art of perfumery almost disappeared, but in the Arab East, it reached its greatest prosperity. The Arabs valued the flavoring as highly as precious stones. Arabs played a huge role in the development of perfumery art. Arabic doctor and chemist Avicenna developed the distillation process of the oils (oil extraction from flowers). Avicenna tested his invention on roses. And here was rose oil born, which became very popular.
   In the XII century, through Venice, the Crusaders again imported this polished in East art – the decoration and cleaning of the body with the aromatic substances and smells. The usage of the perfume has become a status symbol, a sign of high social status. The wealthy Europeans ordered aromatic resins from China. Gradually, the consumption of the perfume became a tradition. It was in the middle Ages, when the Europeans finally approached the cleanliness and hygiene. The bathing, baths and sauna rooms were in vogue. Simultaneously, the aromatic substances were used in medicine. The fumigation of rosemary or juniper berries were applied during the fight against the plague.
   The most famous in medieval Europe was the legendary perfume “eau de Hongrie”, created in 1370 on the basis of orange blossom, rose, mint, melissa, lemon and rosemary. At this time, “the essence of neroli” appears – the extract from the flowers of the orange tree, which is also used nowadays. Another important invention of the Europeans is the scent of “a la frangipane”, named after the Italian perfumer Ffrangipani, who used in the perfume composition the bitter almonds, which had previously been used only in cooking.
   There is a rumor that the perfume was imported to Europe and used for only one purpose: to get rid of the stench; no matter how hard to imagine, but in the past, people were bathed twice in their life – for the first time, after the birth, and the second time, after the death.
   The historic center of the European perfume production is considered the French city of Grasse.
   Perfume consists of up to 80 % alcohol and the natural and synthetic essences dissolved in it. Depending on the concentration of the aromatic oils, the following odors are distinguished: cologne “Eau de Cologne” (from 3 to 5 % essential oils), eau de toilette “Eau de Toilette” (about 10 %), perfumed water “Eau de Parfum” and essence “Parfum” (40 %).
   They say that the scent, which the carrier himself does not feel after a few hours of application, is the correctly chosen odor.
   I really hope that today’s lecture was interesting and useful and I look forward to seeing you again in the near future.
//-- * * * --//
   Although the lecture itself was interesting and cognitive, I tried very hard to focus on it. And it was not surprising, as Richard and I did not manage to talk and the curiosity was devouring me, besides I could not wait to share with Sue all that happened during the last day.

   It turned out that my close friend’s popularity was not inferior to the one of the stars, well at least during and after the lecture. Not only was the hall crowded, but also the audience, after the lecture, tried to exchange couple of words with her, ask for an autograph or make a photo with her.

   – I did not know, you are such a celebrity.
   – Adri, dear, what a Celebrity I am; it’s all just for today, thanks God; otherwise, I would just go nuts and perhaps would even do something stupid and later would regret.
   Somehow, her last sentence made me get back to yesterday evening.
   Did I myself, on some subconscious level, believe that all was a folly and a mistake?
   – Honey, are you all right? You’re kind of scattered.
   – Sue, let’s go to some sort of a bar where we can talk.
   – Is something wrong?
   – No… Yes… I do not know…
   – Hmmmmm, judging from your indefinable and, to put it mildly, not a clear answer, apparently the situation is not simple.

   Five minutes later, we were at the bar, where we ordered double Strawberry Margarita.
   – I am all attention, tell me what’s wrong.
   I felt that I was having hysterical rolls; I wanted to laugh, yell, and then cry, and all of that exactly in that sequence.
   – I do not know where to start, everything seems so confusing.
   – Ok, let’s do it in order.
   – Yesterday, for the first time since the separation with Alen, Richard and I went to a restaurant, where we frequented with Alen. And guess who we faced right at the entrance.
   Sue’s eyes were ready to jump out of their orbits.
   – Exactly…. I think, at that time I had about the same expression on my face. And it changed not for the better, when it became clear that Richard and Alen are old friends.
   – But… but… how?
   Sue was in a state of total confusion.
   – That I have yet to learn.
   It seemed, once again I managed to shock Sue. She was silent and just simply devastated the entire glass of the Margarita in one gulp.
   – I do not understand you, how could you, the whole night and a whole day to be so calm, while being in the dark.
   – Did I have a choice? You know Richard; if he decides to do something, even if the whole world comes down crashing on him, he still will not change his mind. So, it made no sense to argue. All that remains is only to be patient and wait.
   – But how do they know each other. Do you have at least some suspicions?
   – Richard said only that he had fought in Iraq and met Alen there.
   – In Iraq? I wonder how many more secrets will become a reality. And they still dare to call us, the women – mysterious.
   – You know, Sue, I have not slept the whole night. I was thinking all the time. We, the human beings, are so sure of many things. We deny the existence of the things we do not see, as if they really do not exist; and on the other hand, we accept as a reality all that we see, hear and feel. But every person perceives whatsoever in his own way. It is impossible that the same perfume is liked by everyone without an exception, or the same painting leaves the same impression on different people. Namely, the reality that we perceive is not the actual reality, but just the reality, which is transmitted to us by our senses.
   – So, you’re saying that the reality is distorted?
   – Well, not exactly distorted, but to my mind, everyone has his own reality, which is convenient for his own perception. We may see and hear only what we want to see and hear, filtering àll that is contrary to our beliefs and views. – So everyone chooses their own reality?
   – It seems so, – I agreed. – And what is life if not a permanent choice.

One surprise After Another

   Despite the fact that I drank about five glasses of margaritas, the alcohol was kind of lazy to make itself felt. I think it was because of my overexcitement before the upcoming conversation with Richie.
   As soon as I walked in, Richard appeared in the doorway of the living room.
   – Hello dear, how was the evening? How was Sue’s lecture?
   – Good, she was just the star of the evening. How was your evening with Alen?
   – It was fun and at the same time sad. I’m sorry that I made you wait so long, but I needed time to comprehend everything once again.
   – I hope I do not have to wait for another evening; otherwise, you can take me to a loony bin because of my thoughts and guesswork.
   – Believe me, what you will hear may seem strange and sound insane.
   – Allow me to judge about it.
   – Okay, but please do not interrupt me with questions, so that I do not lose the thread of the thoughts. After the story, you can ask about anything you want.
   – Agreed.
   – I voluntarily joined the army, believing in the idea that I served a duty to my country, as well as helped other people get rid of the dictator. The time I spent in Iraq was the worst time in my life. The only positive thing that happened to me during that time was Alen. He was always optimistic and encouraged us.
   Many guys got almost crazy because of the unbearable scenes.
   Once I was held hostage. They kept me in a dark room with almost no food and water, but with regular beatings. I have no idea how I survived.
   Soon, I do not know how long it lasted, as I lost the track of time, I lost consciousness.
   They must have thought I was dead, and threw me into the trash with garbage. Fortunately, Alen was nearby. All the time, since I was taken hostage, he kept watching near the basement. As he saw them throwing my mutilated body, Alen waited until they were gone and took me back.
   Afterwards, he took care of me until I became more or less transportable and organized flight back home for us.
   Alen joined the army, like me voluntarily. Fortunately, soon after all that we had gone through, we got permission to return home, and we did it at the first opportunity.
   When we got back to the States, Alen continued to babysit me.
   But it was all strange and unusual, as if I have lived this situation twice. When I told this to Alen, it turned out that we both had a very strong sense of deja vu, which started to make us worry. In order not to draw hasty conclusions, and not rack our heads over a puzzle, we decided to ask some experts and, eventually, landed at Lobidag Rempik – a teacher from Tibet, who held seminars about past lives.
   I was very critical and never believed in past lives. But from my own my experience, I learned that life always finds a way to change someone’s categorical opinion. That’s what happened to me after the workshop and I got sure, that only fools never change their opinions.

   Alen and I went even further and asked Lobidag to spend a few private sessions with us, during which we had to live and learn a lot of things which are obscure and elusive for the human brain.
   So, during the sessions, we learned that both of us lived in Russia at the period of the Second World War, during which we got to know each other. And oddly enough, while I was again in danger, Alen could not save me. But he kept his word given to me and took care of my family and my bride – you, and later you got married and built a family.
   We also learnt, that in this life we would again meet you. But this time, it should be different.
   Of course, we did not know which one of the millions, if not billions of other women, would be you, but Lobidag assured us that we would recognize you with our sub consciousness. He explained to us that we choose each other not by chance, and meet only those who already exist in our sub consciousness. And he was right.
   Do you remember the day when you and Alen had an accident? The man you run over was me.
   If you did not meet Alen, then there would be no accident, but the life path which you would go, would be different and not easy. And I also wouldn’t be now next to you. But as you can see, everything was planned differently.
   In this life, Alen was destined first to meet you. The meaning of it is that he succeeded to fulfill what he didn’t manage in the previous life, which was to save me from the same fatal danger. He never meant to hurt you and he was devastated by the pain of love.
   We have a lot to learn and understand during all life times. To learn – means to discover what you already know. To do – means to exercise what you are familiar with. To teach others – means to remind them what they know – just like you.

   We learnt a lot about the different dimensions and the astral life. We have learnt to leave our bodies at any time, whenever we wanted, as well as to communicate at a distance.
   All this is a natural magic.
   The accident in which you were involved was a sign; it pointed to the fact that you were the one; that Alen found you, and now I again was going to face a meeting with you.
   After the accident, when the doctors confirmed that I was in a coma, I was, in fact, in the astral plane, and was watching you.
   I can imagine how absurd it all sounds and, believe me, before I experienced it, I must have been the most critical person on earth when it came to such topics.
   I could not believe my ears. All this was too much for my poor brain.
   – You know how hard it is to believe, understand and accept all that I heard, but the part where you’re watching me, I remember perfectly. I still thought I was going crazy, especially when I felt it in my office on the fifteenth floor. The same story with Iraq was sort of familiar.
   – Déjà vu happens to almost everyone, but most people do not understand what is happening to them and interpret it all incorrectly.
   Before the birth, our cells remember everything that happened to us in all of our past lives, and we also know what is awaiting us in the new life. Nature is perfect even here; it made sure that through the stress and shock of the birth, all the information is passed into our sub-consciousness; otherwise, we could get crazy. Some people are more sensitive or, due to some circumstances, can learn some things from the sub-consciousness about their past lives, without realizing it themselves. That is when the déjà vu takes place, and many people think that they must have dreamed of it, and therefore it seems so familiar.
   In the very distant past, the communication at a distance by means of the power of thought or outputs to the astral were as common as breathing. But with the time, people have lost these and many other valuable gifts. They have become increasingly materialistic, mercantile and greedy and lost their connection and unity with nature.
   And here is the world which we have built with our own thoughts, as every action of ours, every thought creates our future.
   We have created a world in which, unfortunately, materiality is valued above everything else and is an equivalent to the meaning of civilization. And with such civilization, we have forgotten about the real values of life: kindness, trust, unity and reunification with the nature and, of course, about the eternal, pure and selfless love.
   Many people are afraid to love, thinking that they will lose their self, their freedom. But love does not mean giving up on one’s self or freedom; it means to give a meaning to one’s own being and freedom.
   Love is a grain of hope for a better, renewed world. A person is unique not by himself, but he becomes so only when he begins to love.
   When people hear something about telepathy, astral dimension, or about past lives, they refuse to accept it, because their way of thinking tells them that they need proof. They need to cut open, to touch and to prove that it’s all there and exist. Otherwise, it is not possible to prove that such phenomena also exist. Human beings still cannot understand that there is a lot at different level than our brain is able to catch; just like the air which we can’t see, but because of it, the air doesn’t stop its existence. Of course nowadays, thanks to the technology and the progress, the air can be seen; if we turn it into a plasma state by applying a lot of heat. It will begin to glow.
   There are people who have experienced similar phenomena, but they are afraid to talk about it, firstly, because of the fear of being misunderstood, and secondly, due to the fact that they will stand out from the masses and will not be like others, will not be “normal”.
   An endless competition, revenge, jealousy, envy and lies, fake, money, authority, prestige and power, glory and vanity took the primary role in the life of a modern human. They see each other as enemies; although they greet each other and, with well-bred manners and a fake smile on their faces, support small talk about nothing; but behind each other are spreading dirty rumors and do their best to lower the other as much as possible, while making themselves “significant”, at least in their own eyes.
   They are in constant competition with each other. The rich men’s poor wives’ discussions are reduced to those who have a thing with a limited edition production. The men, in their turn, seem to approve this kind of competition, because it gives them a reason to earn more in order to be able to afford these kind of expensive toys; therefore, they have a good reason to come home later and later, and sometimes not appear at all. Every year, families spend less time with each other. The time, which is not carried out with the kids, is compensated by expensive toys or large pocket money. And when the child grows up and leaves the parental nest, he hardly remembers that he has parents. Not for nothing they say “what goes around comes around”.
   And then it all leads to a war, destruction of millions of people. People have forgotten about the simple rule: do not do anything to the others what could be the cause of your suffering.
   Many people have fallen victim to this game. Who else but you, in whom Armenian blood flows, knows that it is difficult to find unhappier people than Armenians are? Of course, all people have their misfortunes, but the Armenians always had it more than the others. What only costs the genocide, unleashed in its time by the Turks, which claimed million and half lives!
   – Do you know what expression Armenians used most often? “Tsavt tanem!” Which means “I will take away your pain?” To carry others’ pain on themselves – it is in the tradition of people, the part of which I am. But what do you think, what is the reason that people have become like this? Of course, all the features that you named existed in people from the immemorial time, but I think now it is somehow intensified.
   – You’re right. Before the dawn, it is the darkest time of the day, and I very much hope that this is another natural phenomenon, which will create a more comfortable world with new views and outlook. After all, there are still people who remember the true values. And the world will be a much better place if the people of our civilized world meet and listen to people like Rempik, who know a lot more about life. I’m sure if they are a little more open, they will learn a lot about themselves and about life in general. In this case, people would compete not with each other but with themselves, every day trying to become a little bit better than yesterday. But eventually, everyone decides and chooses himself how to live. All that we find outside of us is the reflection of what we have inside. And we should never forget that there are no coincidences and that nothing in life happens for no reason, nothing in life happens just like that.

Epilog

   This book is the fruit of my way of thinking, the way I see the life and death.
   I would like to dedicate this book to a person, who entirely changed my life.
   You always believed in me and always encouraged me to do things I was not sure of, because of the lack of self-confidence. This book is one of those results.
   You will always stay in our hearts.
//-- * * * --//

   @ My dear readers:
   Thank you for your time.
   I hope you enjoyed reading through my first “baby” and don’t judge me too strictly.
   It would be great to hear your feedback.
   You can contact me at:
   my1firstbook@gmail.com
   http://astaehli.wix.com/nothing-happens

Alin A Nothing Happens Just Like That