Vladimir Makarov

The New Year was approaching, and the frosty air was filled with anticipation of the holiday. The city sparkled with lights, and in my heart there was a chilly loneliness. My husband, Vladimir Makarov. He was known and feared on the street, but at home he was affectionate and caring like no one else. I, an introvert by nature, have never been able to make friends and preferred to spend my evenings in silence. The world around me remained hectic and noisy, but I remained in my thoughts, dreaming of a real holiday. This New Year's Eve, as usual, I was preparing to spend time alone, but Vladimir decided otherwise. "Get ready, we're leaving," he said as I wrapped myself in a blanket and lay on the couch with a cup of tea. I looked at him in disbelief: where could I go on such a cold night? On Red Square, we were greeted by a fabulous picture: a snow-white ice rink surrounded by bright lights, crystal clear air and silence, as if the whole world had stopped waiting for a miracle. I stopped, staring at the emptiness around me. "Oh, is it closed?" I asked, sighing in disappointment. Vladimir just grinned: "No, it's okay. I bought a skating rink for us for the whole night." At that moment, my heart began to beat faster. I never thought he would do something like that. As if sensing my excitement, he came up to me and squatted down to help me tie my skates. His hands were firm and confident as he tied my skate shoes.