Iamyour woman!
Julia Rudenko


The novel Iam your woman! was written inKrasnodar and Moscow. It is about the fate ofmodern military men. On the background ofdisorder there develop such social diseases as bribery, corruption. Honesty ofmain heroes Dasha Sviridenko and Alexander Garov draws them closer toeach other inthis chaos. They try tounderstand if they really love each other. But their feelings are so timid and unprotected that Dasha and Sasha are at aloss for they cant overcome other peoples interests.





Iamyour woman!

Military&Criminal Melodrama

Julia Rudenko



Julia Rudenko,2015

Roman Gyreev, translation,2015



Created with intellectual publishing system Ridero




Woman between the lines


One more book about love. One more pretender tobecome anew Robsky or Dontsova. But weve got plenty ofthem, havent we? Writing ambitiously about everything and nothing at the same time. Young, trying toimitate the sharks ofthe genre But they dont differ from each other This idea occurred tome when Itook amanuscript byan author unknown tome with abold title Iam your woman!. It was obvious the debut woman writer threw down achallenge tomen readers. Its seen with the naked eye. But what was that challenge? Iwondered if she would be able toattract readers attention during the whole book.

Iread the first part and realized: Yulia is acomplicated nature with delicate feelings, who uses grotesque forms ofdescribing mans character and allegories ofjustice skillfully. You can find everything inthis novel: the Chechen war, Love, werewolves inepaulets, but the main peculiarity ofYulia Rudenkos prose is that she made me, sate and spoilt with new books, see, feel, read the dramatism ofhuman relations between the lines. This conflict the collision ofdifferent life positions, how toact inextreme situations is that very challenge.

The main heroine ofthe novel is endowed bythe author with the idea ofstruggle for her love. She is not abusiness-lady, about whom theyre writing now, she is not asuperstar. Dasha Sviridenko is ayoung mother, who fell inlove bychance, being married. The girl is tormented with doubts if she must preserve their family for the sake ofher son. But Life puts everything and everyone on its places. Simple as it may seem

But Idont want toretell the plot. There are alot ofthings init you should think over yourself. Ican see aserious background incomic army episodes and inwild outburst ofthose who got enormous power. And behind this naturalism there is astrong woman writer who can get tothe most hard-hearted man reader with her talent. The novel Iam your woman! is acourageous attempt tochange the world that is falling into the precipice rapidly.



Tatiana Solovyova, writer





For those whom the gods love, unhappiness turn into ablessing.

Leonardo da Vinci




PartI





Chapter1


Moscow recovered from its long sleep. The first sunbeams fell on the Baikal Hotel. It was aSeptember Sunday in1995, and the weather seemed tobe mild that day. Andrey Malcovich lay on his bed inone ofthe deluxe suites, clasping the pillow with his hands and pressing it down himself, and smacked with his lips inachildish manner. When the sunbeams touched his face he opened his eyes, turned around reluctantly and looked at the digital clock. Six minutes were left till the ringing ofhis alarm-clock.

It was quiet inthe room and outside. Andrey closed his eyes again and made an attempt toreturn tothe magic world ofhis night visions. Well, What was your name, you, night enchantress, the girl from my dream? he thought. Then Andrey Malcovich remembered he had fallen asleep during the TV-show dedicated toMata Hari, the beautiful dancer from the early XX century. And his brain gave intothe television wave. This amazing image from the past penetrated into Andreys subconsciousness and was still there. The contours ofanaked girl were wrapped around with mist. She was standing on top ofarock and stretched her arms toAndrey. He came closer without any word. Coiling around him like asnake, with all her entity, she awakened his desire. The dawn coolness was spilt intheair.

Suddenly there was no air tobreathe any more The thick mist beset him like aring. Her lips were like fire. Andrey felt as if her heart itself had penetrated under his skin and was beating there. Just agulp offresh air he needed now! He tried torelease himself. The girl stepped backward and vanished. Andrey was alone. That horrible silence again. And it was before. But now Malcovich felt that silence, he even heard it! The sense that he had lost something forever made his heart shrink and freeze for awhile.

He could hardly make asingle step forward. And then he felt himself falling down the precipice.

His strong and sunburnt body lay still and stretched on the bed. His Blanket slipped down on the floor. So Andrey woke up. It was high time for him tobeoff.

Half an hour later, after handing inthe keys toacharming receptionist girl, Andrey inserted aplastic card into the door-slot so that toleave the floor. But behind the door he saw two ugly guys. They asked him rudely toinsert the card once more and let themin.

Still imagining the young receptionists eyes full ofinnocence, Andrey went straight tothe elevator. But all ofasudden the ugly guys blocked his way, and Andrey noticed one ofthem taking something out ofhis bosom harshly. It must be agun he thought. It scared Andrey. But he reacted instantly hitting the first at his jaw and right after that kicking the seconds belly with his right knee.

It was enough toovercome them. They were lying on the floor. Andrey looked under the edge ofthe first bullys jacket. Well, he wasnt mistaken: the bully had agun on him. So Andrey took the gun, put it into the pocket ofhis leather jacket and without waiting for the lift coming jumped over the fallen and ran downstairs clutching the rail.

On the ground floor Andrey stopped for awhile, breathed away and went up tothe exit. Then as if bychance he stopped at the security guards desk and made athoughtful remark:

The last sunny days we are having! and, squinting abit, andrey leaned tothe sentinels face and whispered:

On the eighth floor Iwas attacked bytwo bastards. Tried toget in. Perhaps, theyre armed.

Before the guard could ask anything Malcovich started tothe door. The automatic doors slid apart noiselessly and closed up behind his back.

The sturdy guard hurried tothe telephone tocall the militia.

Fifteen minutes later four militia officers convoyed those two bandits inhandcuffs, and Malcovich, the former navy captain, sitting inhis silvery Buick, drove away from the parking lot. He was on the way toacity where he could make apacket ofmoney, the city that was areal gold-mine. Grozny was its name.




Chapter2


Well, its beyond my comprehension! Isimply cant understand it! There shouldnt be any foolhardy daring ofyours inour life. Weve just married and now you are eager toleave me and commit exploits at the worlds end. Normal people marry, bear children, bring themup

Thats it! Bring them up as they were brought up along time ago. And it is not agood way. If we are always hiding and being afraid ofmodern life whatever cruel it is just imagine who our children will become! For Gods sake, Im going towork, not tomake exploits as you say! Ifinished amilitary school. Thats my profession! You knew quite well who youd marry.

But it never occurred tome you would choose Chechnya!

The quarrel inthe Garov family seemed tobecome serious. If Larisa Ivanovna, the young officers mother, hadnt interfered God knows what would have happened.

Please, Lera, do come down! Sasha* is not alittle boy! Hell just go there and see if its so dangerous as they say. Maybe, the devil is not so terrible as he is painted as the proverb says. Besides, he can earn alot ofmoney as others do. Then youll save money tobuy aflat. Then anew car. And live happily.

Larisa Ivanovna, my parents told me theyd begun tobuild ahouse forus! We are not so poor that Sasha should go tothe worlds end toget money, are we? And risk his life! He can be killed there!

Alex* was offended byhis wifes remark. He felt uneasy that Leras* parents were richer than him and occupied high posts. And his mother, asimple accountant, brought him up byherself. He wished Valeria had never mentioned their poverty.

Lets stop it! Ive made up my mind togo. Thats final! said Alex abruptly and rushed out ofthe room shutting the door.

Larisa Ivanovna stood up from the chair with asigh:

Its time towarm up the cutlets. And the ducks need some grass. she said and left the roomtoo.

Valeria was alone. She didnt want todo anything, toargue with them any more. All her words are ofno use. Maybe she is asquare peg inthe round hole here? But why on earth did he marry her? Not Katya? Not Glasha? Not someone else? He is so handsome and attractive! He could have chosen any girl he wanted. All the chicks inthe street re dreeming ofhim.

But Sasha preferred her, Lera Lavrova, atutor inthe kindergarten. Yes, she is not very pretty. But rather well-off, thanks toher parents. She could live as she wanted. Not worry about the future.

How wonderful their love-affair began! Lera leaned the back ofher armchair and recalled how theyd met first.

It was aSunday evening insummer. She was returning from the sea-side inher Opel. He, being alast-year cadet, was on the way home for summer holidays. So he was hitchhiking on the road, at the outskirts ofKrasnodar.

Lera stopped her car beside him. Alex opened the door, flopped down onto the seat and began kidding:

Nice tomeet you! My name is Alex. Alex the Hijacker. Hijacker and car-stealer. And whats your name, you, wonderful owner ofanot less wonderfulcar?

Va-le-ria, Lera answered insyllables, drawling the vowels, and pushed the gas and clutch pedals gently, without any fuss.

Shifting the gear she hit Alex with her elbow bychance. The latter didnt lose his head and put his hand on hers:

Can Ihelpyou?

Lera moved aside slightly but the guy took off his hand at once:

Well, Ionly wanted tohelp you. Dont think wrong ofme. Sasha said and stared ather.

Lera turned her eyes tothe highway infront ofher. Hardly overcoming nervous strain that seized her, she continued driving. Lera felt she was blushing and tried tobreak that strange, uncouth silence:

Bythe way, where are you going? she asked Sasha.

Tothe stanitsa** ofDinskaya. And may Iask you aquestion? Where from and where toare you going now? You, such abeautiful, young and brave Amazon?

Lera was taken aback again. She tried tospeak ofthe sea-surf, but everything mixed inher head. Alex saw it. And he was pleased. He was so pleasedwith his newly-invented image ofahijacker and seducer that suddenly he whispered right into herear:

Lera, dear, please relax! Or youll skid but Iwant tolive

And then Valeria suddenly pulled the brakes. At that moment she wanted only one thing toget rid ofthis impudent passenger. But at the same time she was pleased with his courting.

Please but Alex didnt let her finish.

He nearly bumped against the windscreen but turned harshly and caught Lera byher shoulder, pulled her tohimself and kissed. She couldnt resist.

She remembered trying toprotect her virginity: We cant do it! Weve just met know each other for acouple ofminutes. But this attempt was too weak. Alex put his hand lower and lower. Her breasts betrayed her and made her moan



*Alex, Sasha, Sanyok diminutive for Alexander, Lera that for Valeria.

**Stanitsa aCossack village.




Chapter3


Somebody was knocking at the door and shouting:

Comrade Major! Comrade Major! Please, open the door!

Private Glushko, fuck off! major Smirnov bawled from inside.

Toyou Akind of your wife or so has come!

The door opened half. Major Smirnov, scared, wrapping his naked body with atowel mumbled:

Did you really seeher?

Glushko who was not the least frightened lost the gift ofspeech completely when he saw the majors hairy chest. So he just nodded.

And where isshe?

Glushko waved his hand towards the commandants office:

Th-th-ere

Where?! Inthe office? Speakout!

Then Glushko began tomutter:

There Acar stopped Ablue one Or not. Not know Forgot Awoman get off. Very pretty! Good heavens! Ryzhov said: Such pretty thingsre driving toand fro intheir cars inGrozny like at home. Thats what he said! And she came up tous. Ryzhov also said tome: Big tits!.

Shut up! Or Ill show you! Big tits!

Comrade major. Please dont punish Ryzhov! He didnt mean anythingbad.

He didnt know shes your wife. But if you beat him Hell guess And hell killme!

OK, come down! But where is Svetka* now? Ihope she isnt here, is she? Smirnov leaned over Glushkos shoulder examining an empty corridor inone ofthe hostels ofthe Northern Airport.

She is Ryzhov saw her tothe office. He said: So youll have towait alittle. Major Smirnov is on asecret commission.

Ugh Well, Ryzhovs abrick! Now Glushko, stand at the hostel door and dont let Svetka here while Im dressing. Clear? Repeat!

Pleased with such trust private Glushko stood straight and said distinctly: Stand at the hostel door and not let Svetka in!.

Thats agood boy! But Svetlana Vladimirovna for you. Go away. Youre free!

Glushko went tothe exit.

But dont tell her it was my order!

Yes, sir. Not tell.

Because Iknow you well! grumbled the major, closed the sauna door and entered the sweating-room. Now dress! Thats all! Had agood time together! Wifes come!

Ensign Lyubov Antonova said lazily:

Iheard. You go alone. Id rather sweat out abit.

As you like, Smirnov pulled up his trousers quickly.

Five minutes later Smirnov knocked at the door ofone ofthe rooms opposite tothe exit. Before anyone inside could answer, he pushed the handle and opened the door.

There was nobody inside. Smirnov came up tothe window and opened it. Then he got out ofthe window. High and dense grass hid him up tothe waist. Smirnov walked for five meters, then he bent and put his hands on the dusty road. Smirnov thrust his hands into his wet hair, tousled and sleeked it slightly.

Now its alright! he thought. Smirnov scrutinized his camouflage uniform slowly and rubbed the trousers with his dusty hands.

Major Smirnov bent around the two-storey hostel and went impetuously towards the commandants office. Ten meters near it, alonely figure ofprivate Glushko, scrawny and small.

The major cried:

Private Glushko! Doing nothing as usual?! Go and put yourself inorder at once! Wash! Wash and press your outfit! Clean your gun! Be ready bytomorrow! Youll go with me, tofollow the column toKhankala!

Me toKhankala?! Glushko gasped.

While the soldier was trying tounderstand what todo first, Major Smirnov entered the commandants office, round andlow.

Wow! Svetlana? Its you! Or am Idreaming? Where from? With whom are our children?



*Svetka diminutive and familiar for Svetlana.




Chapter4


Hardly had Malcovich passed Mozdok inhis Buick when he was stopped. With their AKMs atilt two patrol soldiers came tothe car at the distance ofastretchedarm:

Getoff!

Malcovich was about toshow them his inefficacious certificate ofthe navy captain, but those guys didnt let him do so. Drawing abead on him at once, one ofthem repeated:

Getoff!

Oh, God, for what sins? Do help me, please! Malcovich thought.

Hands on the hood! Feet astride! one ofthe soldiers started probing Andreis jacket.

He took out his passport, certificate and wallet:

Andrei Andreievich Malcovich. Born in1966inVolgograd. Single. No children. the soldier read aloud the passport data.

Then opened the military certificate, but read it tohimself. After thinking abit the soldier said:

Comrade Captain, excuseus for the delay. You may be free!

Good heavens! They could have let me go before! Thanks, God! Malcovich thought.

And then when Malcovich sat behind the wheel and turned the ignition key the second soldier offered him as if reluctantly:

Do you mind opening the trunk? Just aformality. Just tobe sure. And you may go further.

Malcovich left his fingers on the key for awhile. Slowly, with dignity he turned his head towards the car-window and asked:

What?

Open the trunk Isaid! repeated the patrol soldier.

Good Lord! What bad have Idone?! adesperate thought flashed byinAndreis head.

Humming the tune ofThere is an isle ofBad Luck inthe ocean, Andrei switched off the ignition, put out the key, opened the door and said rapidly:

Well, kids! Lets arrange it! Ill pay! 500toeach! Im inahurry you know! They stop and check me at every post! Im exhausted toopen and close it all the time! One and the same everywhere! Ive lost half an hour here. Iwas tobe inVedeno yesterday. So what shall we do? Malcovich tried totake out his wallet. The second patrol soldier got on the alert.

Take off your money! Open!

Malcovich heaved asigh and started opening the trunk Yawning the patrol soldier wanted toclose his mouth with his hand tobe decent, but suddenly whistled out and cried tohis friend:

Oh, Vasya! Heres an arsenal! Guns ofall kinds! Just look!

While the patrol soldier was going toAndreis car, thoughts were whirling around inhis head. Andrei was unable toconcentrate on anything.

OK, Ill tell you though Imustnt. These arms are for the commandants office ofthe Northern airport. You know our guys are killed and the Chechens re grabbing our arms as atrophy. The detachment commanders are introuble. The office lacks awhale ofarms! But its useless toexplain tothose fat-assed generals inMoscow and Rostov that we are losing arms inbattle. Inbattle Isay! So Im going tosave my old friends torefill the arsenal tocut it short!

This tale will be good for your lawyer, Captain! Incourt! And then we are surprised why the militants have Russian arms! said that Vasya and spit scornfully on the move. He convoyed Malcovich tothe post cabin, tocall the militia from Mozdok, for detaining an offender.




Chapter5


Nevertheless Lieutenant Garov, 23years ofage, left his native stanitsa. Maybe, my wife will understand me, he thought sitting on apile ofrolled canvas tents near aporthole ofthe plane Rostov Grozny, Anyway, other officers wives share life with their husbands. They have totravel with them and put up with their duties, dont they?.

Oh, young lieutenant! Flying for the first time? atender-hearted old man near him criedout.

Yes, first, Alex nodded.

Want some water? Ihave some mineral water left. Have adrink?!

No, thanks. Ihave myself. Alex shouted inresponse and half closed his eyes as if he were dosing

When inthat Leras Opel he took her passionately, even violently he couldnt imagine he would be her first man. Just think: ayoung lady drives along the deserted highway, then picks up astranger and whats more! is ready togive intohim Alex wouldnt have remembered her the next morning if he hadnt discovered some blood on his trunks taking ashower and hadnt compared this with Leras cry Oh, it hurts! when she lost her virginity.

Mum! Do you know the Lavrovs?

Ofcourse Iknow! Everybody knows them! He is amarket director, and she is the Chief public prosecutor.

Oh, God! What Ive done!

Whats wrong, my boy? Mother didnt hear her sons exclamation for the water was running inthe shower cabin.

Nothing special!.. Mum, Im hungry! Awfully hungry!

The next evening he was waiting for Lera near the kindergarten. When she appeared the last beam ofsunset fell right on his face. So he screwed his eyes abit:

Hello!

Suddenly Lera spoke inamanly voice:

Kid, wake up! Wake up! Weve just arrived. The flight is over.

Alex moved abruptly and opened his eyes. The warm-hearted old man was overhim:

Weve come Isay. Had anap? Well, dont hurry. We have alot oftime todisembark. They wont take you back on board. Theyll fly back only tomorrow. With the dead. Here with alive, back with dead. Alive and dead. As the title ofthat novel. Bythe way, whos the author ofit? Some Russian chap Ugh Iforgot. Slipped my mind. Oh, my cabbage head! Dont you remember, lieutenant? The old man was smiling.

Garov was ready tohit him at the jaw. He clinched his fists, but the old man noticed that and changed his face and tone.

Please, dont be angry for my words, he said. Neither you nor Iwant death and war. Neither you nor Istarted killing people. Others began that war those who drive inluxurious cars and sit incozy armchairs. They dont see any blood, any grief, theyre just getting money. But its always not enough for them. They dont care astraw who is me and who is you! Their fat life is the only thing they care! Theyre not at war like Napoleon. Alas, guys like you are merely cannon fodder. Ad youll go tomake exploits! What for? For their benefit?!

Alex couldnt deny it. He was listening tothe old man gloomily. He undid and clenched his fists.

The old man stopped speaking for some time, then continued inaquiet voice:

Imet Nino, my future wife on the 9th ofMay. Then it became aVictory day you know. She was just agirl. She left school and was going toenter the institute. But the war began. Iwas inatrench near Stalingrad in1942when Igot asmall parcel. Many soldiers got such parcels. So Iopened it and saw apair ofknitted woolen socks. There was aphoto and asmall triangle letter inone ofthem Our women inthe rear gathered what they could for the parcels and sent them tothe front line. It was Nino who d knitted the socks. Besides, she looked ahead: she would marry the man who would get those socks. She told me that later when our son was one Then Ilooked at her photo asmiling pretty girl she was. That photo touched my heartstrings. Irecalled my dear home, cosy and warm. So Iread her letter, learned what her name was. As it turned out, wed lived inthe same street inGrozny before the war. Strange as it may seem, the war helped me tofind my love. So Ianswered her. We wrote toeach other till the victory. InApril, 45Igot wounded and was taken tohospital. Was discharged on the 1st ofMay, could walk on crutches only. Was sent back home. Nino came tomeet me at the railway station, brought me abouquet oftulips. Inayear our son was born.

The old man paused. Then he continued his story:

Nino died. But Ilive. Son died. But Ilive. Truly, Idied too We didnt want toleave Grozny. But everyone left. Nino and Istayed alone. On the 2nd floor. We, old people, cant look for anew home, wander from one flat toanother. So as we thought it was high time forus togo tothe better world. We had lived together for ages so we would die together as well. As Ithought. But it wasnt so Iwent away for half an hour And it began: helicopters, fire, enemies Isaw our house crash down. It was exploded. When Iwas leaving Nino said: Ill have arest, wait for you and then feed Vaska. Vaska is our cat. As you see she didnt feedhim.

Alex couldnt help asking:

And yourson?

My sonny died inthe air-crash. He was apilot. Now Im coming back from my daughter-in-law. She lives inRostov, with my granddaughter. She asked me tostay, but Icant stay, Cant live without Nino. Its all the same for me todie. Better tobe buried nearher.

You two, get off! You can talk outside! someone said.




Chapter6


The officers ofthe commandants office met Sasha Garov friendly. Major Smirnov called him just Garik and offered him tofollow aprovision pack toKhankala.

Id love to! Sasha answered with great alacrity. When do we start?

Oh, not so fast! Steady on! Not today but tomorrow! Major Smirnov squinting alittle looked straight into Garovs eyes.

But meeting the same sight, sharp and steady Smirnov turned aside and bawled:

Glushko!

Private Glushko came inagreat hurry. Hearing his commanders voice hed run out ofawooden john, fastening his fly on the run. So he got tothe office quicker than fastened all the buttons on his trousers.

Major Smirnov couldnt help mocking at Glushko:

So you see, lieutenant, he said toGarov, what blockheads Ihave torule?

Comrade Major!.. Glushko tried toclear himself.

Then he got abashed and turnedred.

Well, come down, Private Glushko! Clasp the last button! Stand up properly! Now tell me and Lieutenant Garov how the detained militants feel.

Glushko set straight his shirt, pants and belt, then straightened up at full length. After short silence he cried out as if dashing on the embrasure:

Comrade Major! Let me speak! The two militants detained byyou yesterday are inthe cellar quietly. But not because they are always quite. Igather they are weak after you taught them alesson so tosay last night. So theyre still lying, bleeding. Sometimes they say: Bitches, Bastards all the same tear them all!

Hey, and you? Sitting above them and listening totheir trash with pleasure?! Smirnov frowned. Youd better read books! Theres some truth inthem sometimes! Whats the book you like bytheway?

The soldier thought for amoment and said:

Three bears.

Garov burst out laughing and turned aside pretending he was coughing. But Major Smirnov continued seriously:

What?! Is it afairy-tale or so?! You like tales, dont you? Tales are agood thing anyway. But whats the latest book you read, Glushko?

Glushko was abit confused, thought again and uttered:

Three bears.

Garov was half laughing, half coughing louder and louder. He was choking with laughter. Smirnov threw aglance at him, smiled slightly and said pretending tobe serious:

Glushko! Your silly answers made lieutenant Garov choke. Think ofwhat your speak! Youre nineteen, arentyou?

Yes,sir!

You couldnt have read books last inthe 3rd form?

Oh no, Glushko smiled. Its under my pillow. Iread it before sleep.

What read? This tale? Smirnov was stunned.

Garov was unable tohold back and now was laughing boisterously. Glushko looking at Garov and laughing Smirnov really didnt grasp what was going on. Turning redder than he hed been with his fly he tried tounderstand what hed said wrong.

Comrade Major! Ive told you the truth butyou

Glush-ko!.. Did you read Ryaba the Hen for example? Smirnov said stammering with laughter Ill give it toyou toread! Very in-te-res-sting!

Then ensign Merdyev entered the office carrying alargebag:

Laughing? Glushko said something stupid again?

Smirnov still choking with laughter asked Merdyev:

Lyokha! Did you read aRussian folk tale Three bears?! Ha-ha-ha! Glushko recommendsus reading it! Agood book abestseller he says. Its ahandbook for him! Like the Bible!

Merdyev putting the food from his bag into the fridge cast aglance at Glushko:

Three bears is an excellent tale! My mum read it tome! Its not so absurd! But its bad Glushko doesnt read other books. Romka, would you like War and peace, the first volume? Once Ifound it inan empty flat inGrozny. Perhaps, itll come inhandy!, Ithought.OK?

OK, muttered Glushko frowning.

Hearing them laughing Svetlana, Smirnovs wife, came out ofthe next room:

Stop mocking at this laddie!

Who is aladdie here?! the Major asked sharply. Glushko is asoldier on duty. He defends his Motherland and hence his mother and his village Glushkino. As areal soldier and citizen he must know about his country, its national heroes and its best writers as well. He is aman-of-war like those militants inthe cellar who cry tear you, bastards!. Or he is different because he reads Three bears? And if the Chechens attackus right now, will he jump off the window and run tomummy like Masha from this tale?! Ihope he wont! Smirnov grinned scornfully.

Meanwhile they heard atumult ofexplosion not far from them. After the explosion there came across-fire. Smirnov turned around, seized his tommy-gun from the bed and dashed tothe door pushing away Glushko. Then he looked back on the move:

Garov? Are you withme?!

Yes, yes! Alex seized atommy-gun too and followed Smirnov.

And I? What Ishould do? Glushkos voice came out ofthe office.

Read War and peace! Smirnovs voice echoed.

Just amoment! Ill give you the book! Merdyev said. He was pottering with the food hed brought.

Where are these pretty cakes and pelmens from? asked Svetlana. Is there ashop nearby?

Ofcourse not. Merdyev said smiling. The point is the Chechens try toearn their living insome or other way. Thats why they set amarket inthe airport. When Isee them Iask: Wheres your license? No license? Get off!. So they give me packets with food tostay there. Thatsall!

Then toGlushko:

Heres the book foryou!

Ensign Merdyev took the book byTolstoy out ofthe mattress and gave it toGlushko.




Chapter7


The rhythm oftime came out ofthe hospital staff lounge distinctly and monotonously. The ward-door was ajar. Dasha Sviridenko hated the rest-time since childhood, since her mother had totake her out ofthe day-nursery because she was constantly ill. She wasnt asleep alone inthe ward. She tried toplan beforehand the forthcoming mysterious event the sacrament ofthe childbirth. Sometimes she took her knitting-needles the panties were nearly ready.

The clock struck four, when the bottom ofher stomach became unusually wet. There was no pain but Dasha got frightened. Perhaps her child was eager tobe born. Dasha didnt dare towake up any ofher ward-mates. She stood up insilence and hurried tothe exit. According toher calculations there were 2days left before the supposed date ofconfinement. An obstetrician nurse examined her lying inthe armchair and shook her head:

The amniotic fluid has gone. So youll bear drily.

Tobear normally, without aCesarean section was impossible for Dasha. 13hours later Dasha exhausted bybirth pangs and nearly unconscious was shown tothe surgery. Amedical brigade was sent for. Tatyana, areanimation nurse who used tobe Dashas classmate came up toher, tortured bynumerous injections, and whispered tenderly:

Agood doctor will operate you! Itold him: Dont cut our beauty too much!

Tatyana smiled and stepped aside.

Well, where is your little vein? Do make afist! the anaesthesiologist said toDasha flirting with one ofthe nurses. Almost all inthe surgery knew they were lovers. Dasha also knew that. So it was nice for her tofall asleep surrounded with the fluids ofsecret love floating over her. She closed her eyes. The anaesthesiologists last words: Dasha, count up to10! sounded as if inthe microphone, then dissolved like an echo inthe mountains. She was smiling full oftrust towards the doctor.The she fell asleep

Though Cadet Sviridenko was preparing himself tothe forthcoming change inhis life, the telegram about it was all ofasudden for him. It came like abolt from the blue. He was shocked. What todo? Where togo? What tospeak and towhom? Son born. His son was born. HE HAS ASON!!! No! can it be? Maybe its just amistake. Is it real? Maybe, its merely adream. Perhaps, some other man became afather. SON! He is afather now, isnt he? What does it mean father? What does it mean son? It happens time and again. But could it happen with him. At that moment he was eager tobe afree poet, todie young like Pushkin? And now he has ason! Its time towrite acradle song thats what he must do! He went tothe company commander. An hour later Cadet Sviridenko got aleave warrant for aday.

Arriving inRostov, he headed for the local maternity hospital. But he wasnt allowed tohis wife. He wrote her amessage and went tohis mother-in-law. She cried nervously at him: Youd better buy flowers! Daddy!.

Then he was silent Dashas mother was calling the shots around:

Wash your hands! Change!

He was exhausted byher commands completely. Why doesnt she realize? His son was born! He became afather! Notshe!

When she was ironing diapers hurriedly tocarry them tothe maternity hospital as soon as possible and asked him todo something again he threw on his jacket and was off. Cadet Sviridenko spent anight under the hospital windows. The words ofacradle song occurred tohim. He wrote them down on asheet ofpaper.

Inthe morning he returned tohis military school. Ihave ason!.




Chapter8


Malcovich met Major Smirnov during the Afghan war. But he wasnt sure if he could rely on him. Nevertheless, Malcovich couldnt invent anything better. So Andrei phoned his old chum and told him what had happened. Asked him toappear incourt inMozdok as awitness.

After that Smirnov grew very gloomy, as black as thunder. Well, apretty kettle offish! Malcovich lived easier. Neither wife nor children! Free as abird. But Smirnov couldnt afford risking. Malcovich was inthe soup now, Smirnov could be as well. Smirnov has awhale ofproblems himself. Everybody is stealing arms now, concealing and transporting illegally! But it was absolutely idiotic ofMalcovich tobe caught insuch away. Well, Malcovich, Malcovich, asmart man! But sometimes asilly ass!.

Garov noticed at once Smirnov get grim.

Whats wrong?

Ofcourse, all is wrong! That bloody Malcovich, damn it! Carrying arms tothe commandants office! He dared say so inthe militia! Couldnt invent anything better? Smirnov, do come and help me, please! Ibeg you! Save me! Ill remember it forever! If we sell the arms well share the money fifty-fifty. Fico tohim! And if Idont go whats then?!

Dont worry, Major! Is it impossible tosay incourt Malcovich was really transporting the arms tous?!

So youll tell it, wont you?! Right? Bloody genius you are! The cleverest man Ive ever seen! Dont be silly! Smirnov was walking toand fro, took things and put them back. He couldnt concentrate. At last he sat byGarov with his hands upon his knees. OK. Perhaps you are right. You will go toMozdoc. Tomorrow.

It was aturning point inGarovs life. MALCOVICH NEVER FORGOT THOSE WHO ONCE HELPEDHIM

Malcovich and Garov came back from Mozdok tothe Northern airport together. Malcovichs joy was exuberant. Garov was happy too that their affair cameoff.

Their optimism was quite contagious. Abottle ofStolichnaya appeared byitself on the table inthe commandants office. Then came red caviar, balyk (salted fish) and lard. Svetlana laid the table with great energy. She cut the bread, then found wineglasses somewhere perhaps, asked the hostel lodgers.

So the whole company sat at afestive table. Ofcourse, one ofthe toasts was inhonour ofthe deceased soldiers and officers. Then kept silent inrespect. Then talked abit.

Two officers wives, or the dekabrists wives as they were called here, came on the sly from the hostel and joined the company.

Malcovich was eloquent and fascinated everybody. Another bottle ofvodka came, then athird one. And at 3 the dekabrists themselves

Then it turned out one ofthe officers wives was absent. And Malcovich vanished too. So her husband company lieutenant Puzanov went tohis room inthe hostel so that totell his beloved wife ablonde with the looks ofMonroe that hed arrived. But He didnt find her inbed sleeping sweetly. Puzanov decided torejoin the company.

On his way he wanted topiss. At first he was about todo it outdoors but then changed his mind and turned right inthe long corridor

Then he wished he had left the hostel!

But the devil or so made him enter the john with the letter M on the door. Opening that damned door he saw abroad mans back that enclosed the window. Two naked legs embraced the back. The broad-backed man was breathing frequently. His trousers fell lower and lower for he was moving inrhythm.

Puzanov got interested inall this. He wasnt modest or tactful at all. He didnt leave the john., but entered the cabin and made apiss. Then he heard the womans orgastic moan. Puzanov was amused with it. He went out ofthe cabin inhigh spirits. Puzanov was going totell those at the festive table about the picant scene.

The door slammed behind his back And Puzanov stood petrified.

Ahandbag! Ahandbag lay on the floor! No woman inthe hostel had it but his wife! He had bought it for her inaboutique in St.Petersburg! Oh, shit! So it was she there, inthe john, on the dirty window-sill, with naked legs around the broad back!

Puzanov was struck bycruel truth. Bloody bitch! he thought. Bitch! he said aloud. Bitch! he cried at the top ofhis voice. Puzanov opened the john door, came up tohis wife who was dressing. And not seeing Malcovich Puzanov said toher face: You bitch! Then he turned on his heels and rushed tothe commandants office.

The next morning everybody knew about the night event. Puzanov complained his friend Nikishov. Then Nikishov was discussing with Ryzhov with great gusto what Puzanov had todo, then told carelessly tohis wife about the whole affair, but ordered her strictly not todivulge the secret. She swore on her honour but tobe friends with Verka is much more important.

So it began. The rumours spread around. Verka told Tanka, Tanka told her husband The Puzanovs were quite encircled with gossips. But Puzanov didnt put up with the role ofacuckolded. Once he gave alift tothe commandants secretary along-legged Oksana He took her right inthe car, summersaulting, for five times or abit more. Again he told Nikishov now about his success. Nikishov toRyzhov. Rumours again. But the Puzanovs didnt divorce.




Chapter9


Dasha recovered ofaheart-rending womans shriek next door. Looked around. On the cot near her there lay a man.Some ugly yellow liquid was pouring down inthe pipe coming out ofhis blankets right into the bucket. Dasha touched carefully her belly under the blanket. It was even again! Acold hot-water bottle below. But higher?! Nor bandage, nor plaster. How were they taking her baby out? Oh, god! Whats with him? With her son? Or daughter? She was afraid toask anyone. Truly, there was no one toask.

It was dark outside so it was night. It began dripping under the bed. Dasha managed only tolift her blanket abit. As she saw there was also apipe descending from her body into the bucket as that from the man nearby.

Then anurse with asyringe inher hand entered the ward. She rolled back the brim ofDashas blanket and rubbed her leg alittle higher the knee with apiece ofcotton wool. Then she made an injection. Dasha gave ashortcry.

The nurse went out. Dasha had no time toask about her baby. It was the anaesthesiologist who told Dasha about her child. He came tosee his patient inthe morning. Before Dasha saw her baby, red and wrinkled, the obstetrician started massaging her breasts. Her cold hands went lower and lower, and she crumpled so strong as if she wasnt ahuman being at all but just abig piece ofdough. And it was abit humiliating. Indeed, Dasha felt herself asort ofdough, an orange being squeezed. It hurt very much, but she had no desire tocry. She restrained herself.

Put on agown and go tothe maternity section, the nurse said when leaving.

On her way out ofthe reanimation Dasha touched the lower part ofher belly. The ex-class-mate didnt cheat her: the surgeon made atiny horizontalcut.

The space that drew her together with her husband, mum, girl-friends widened immensely when she put her baby that clod ofblankets and diapers closer toher bright-red nipples. The child sucked them greedily, sipped milk stronger and stronger. At last he was sate.

My darling! Idont let anyone offend you.

Acockroach ran across the bed near Dasha. So she didnt switch off the light so that the insects didnt alarm her baby.




Chapter10


It seemed Malcovich would be always lucky. Next morning he, Smirnov and Garov managed tosell the arms. Smirnov striked it off the register as unfit. Malcovich promised his friends toopen an account inabank for each ofthem and put abiggish sum toeach.

Garik, do you have children?

No, just married.

Wheres your wife? Why didnt you take her here?

Tothis rat-place?! Besides, she cant leave her job she wont find any then, said Sasha sorrowfully.

Rats as if hearing they were told ofbegan rustling at the round walls ofthe commandants office. One ofthem got out ofthe hole and smelled the air. Perhaps, it felt the scent offried cutlets cooked bySvetlana on asmall electric stove alittle bit earlier. Smirnov took off his gin as quietly as he could and shot. Yes, he hit it. Aminute later, ahuge black smooth dog D har came and carried away the killed rat. Smirnov blew into the guns muzzle inafilm-like manner and put it aside:

Gariks wife is too soft. Not like my Svetka! Through fire and water shell get tome! Absolutely fearless!

Isee you like when she comes all ofasudden whether youre unfaithful toher ornot.

Let it be! All the same she wont know! Even if she does she wont leave me. Alone with children?

That ensign-woman is pretty enough! Very sexy! Malcovich said baring his white even teeth.

Hold your tongue! Steady on! as if jealous Smirnov grasped hisgun.

Well, you can fight as much as you want. But Iwash my hands and take off! Garov said.

But who on earth will be my second at the duel? Smirnov asked laughing.

Id rather check the soldiers. Igave them atask toclean up the bathhouse and under the awning. Its terrible there you know. Inbrief, the soldiers are making the order.

Thats right ofyours. Do go and control. Smirnov paused, waited till Garov closed the door. Then turned toMalcovich.

He is so gloomy, that fellow Garov. Bored. Melancholic as they say. Still makes love with wife only. Too faithful! Wants tobe good and honest all the time! But its too hard!

Dont be so pitiful! Well help him as much as we can. OK? Malcovich winked toSmirnov slyly. Bythe by, Ihave aplan. Look!

Andrei took aParker ink-pen, seized aclear blank-form from the table and began drawing circles onit.

Here is the Centaur Development Firm. Malcovich began. It was tofulfill some construction works inthe port ofEysk. But the deadline came and very little was done. It had no time tofinish em on time. Now this firms on the verge ofbankruptcy. But Ill come tothe firms customer and pay with promissory notes what the Centaur didnt do. As you can guess the Centaur owe me now! Igive the Centaur some time tomake profits. Inayear this firm will return me this sum plus interest. Or it will build me avilla at the sea-side. So lets build the port? Lets try? Lets risk? Its abonanza! Malcovich pushed Smirnov slightly with his shoulder.

But Smirnov wasnt enthusiastic aboutit:

Im sure you will. And I? Were toshoot all these bloody bastards here inGrozny. Till the end Ithink.

It doesnt matter. Malkovich continued his speech with great gusto. Ihave afriend ofmine. She is asort ofdeputy chief of. Shes already signed some papers. Now with her help Ill clear off the debt of tothe depositors ofshare-building. The  owe me! Inayear or two Ill demand flats from them toclear off their debt. You need aflat or not, Vadim Gennadievich?! Or perhaps youre waiting when the State rewards you for your excellent service?! Wholl give your children ahouse tolive in, aroof over their heads? Where are they, bytheway?

InStavropol, inthe hostel. With aroom-mate.

Well, think it over! It is real tolive inthis country. If you want ofcourse. But you dont, Major. Dont wait grab it at once! Easily, joyfully and with dignity! And that fellow Garik well take withus!

Dont involve him inyour schemes! Idont let you spoil this guy! And Im not going with you either.

OK. Well see later whos right. Next time Ill give you the keys from aMoscow flat! Again you refuse?!

InMoscow ofno use! Ill get aflat inRostov.

How long?

What dyou mean how long?

How long are you on the waiting-list?

Five years.

And youll wait for twenty-five years as well!.. Am Iright? Svetlana? Malcovich asked Smirnovs wife whod just come.

Stop whispering you two! Again chatting ofus women?! Lets go and eat the cutlets until they are cold. When will you get married, Andryusha? Cant stop tempting my husband!

Its absolutely impossible! Itell him look at this girl, look at that! But he fuck off! Ilove my wife!

Smirnov hit Malcovich slightly below his chest.




Chapter11


Larisa Ivanovna Garova pushed the doorbell button on the gate inahigh thick fence. Ashort-haired boxer called Vandamme began tobark, then Valerias mother shouted:

Shum! Sit! Shum Isaid! Shut up! Blasted Vandamme!

Step bystep the barking ceased. It was obvious, the hostess managed todrive her big dog into its huge kennel. Now Larisa Ivanovna could hear her approaching steps.

Having opened the gate Larisa Ivanovnas new relative couldnt help yawning, disappointed.

Ah, its you! Anything happened?

No, just tovisit Valeria, her tone sounded sorry.

Without any further words, the hostess ofatwo-storey mansion nodded and let her in. Valerias mother shut the gate, lloking all the time over Larisa Ivanovna or through her as if she was made ofglass.

Valeria came onto the balcony:

Mum, whos there?

Toyou. Cant lift your ass and see yourself! Ihave toopen the door all the time, with my high pressure! The tall big woman with white dyed hair told off her daughter entering the house. Dont forget tofeed your Schwarznegger or Vandamme, whats his bloody name! Hes ready totear me topieces! Hardly shutup!

Abig Persian cat appeared inthe parlour. Valerias mother took it on her hands:

Agood cat! she said lackadaisically and went tothe drawing-room.

Larisa Ivanovna followed her. Then she stopped at the spiral stairs and thought whether toascend or Valeria would descend toher. As if reading her thoughts like abook Valeria leaned over the rail:

Go up, Larisa Ivanovna!

Breathing heavily Larisa Ivanovna fell down on an armchair. Valerias thin lips stretched inasmile. Then she sat besideher:

Any problems?

Good god, no! Its alright! Sashas friend brought me aletter from him and some money.

What money?

Hes got his first wages. Wrote tome tohand it toyou. You can put it on the savings bank account if you please. Or buy something.

Larisa Ivanovna was about totell Valeria about Sashas letter, but was struck byher daughter-in-laws categoric tone:

Idont need any money! Idont need anything!

Larisa Ivanovna was perplexed. She didnt realize what was wrong. Some supernatural forces made her raise from the armchair. Stunned, she could hardly murmur:

Well, Id better go.Bye.

Well, she wont tell her anything at all! Not inamood!

It didnt occur toValeria why Larisa Ivanovna had got upset:

Where are you going? Larisa Ivanovna?

Valeria doesnt call me Mother.

Your cats made apiss on the carpet! heading for the stairs, Larisa Ivanovna uttered quietly. She didnt Valeria anymore. She ignored her questions.

Ah, no matter! Lets have tea! But where areyou?

No thanks. Never mind.

Larisa Ivanovna nearly rushed from the gate. Never! Never she will cross the threshold ofthis wicked house again! Never.




Chapter12


Garov! Dont try! Youll never get through! Its useless! They dont connect even with Rostov. Icant send apack toMozdok for two days! And youre calling your wife! the working-department chief rapped out his words.

Mikhail Andreevich! Let me try! Its very urgent! My folks at home are shocked bythe news from Chechnya on TV. Im sure they are worried aboutme.

Worried you say?! OK. Permission granted. But just for your sake! Dont jabber it toanyone if you get through. All want tophone you know.

The stout lieutenant colonel left the room. But not because he was polite. He was tobe at afestive table. If the calendar wasnt mistaken it was the 7th ofNovember*.

Hullo, Dad, is it you? Its Sasha. Is Lerain?

His fathers morose remark Just amoment hurt Sashas soul. Just this phrase, nor Hello!, nor How are you?!

Oh, Sashka! the receiver asked merrily.

Hi, Lera!.. No time Can cut off any minute!.. Im alright!.. Dont watch TV. Here no one speaks tojournalists and they invent horrors just tosay something.

Well, Idont watch TV atall

Really?! And What dyou do? Garov asked.

Yesterday came back from Sochi with old folks. Maman sunburnt badly now is suffering from overpressure. Papas standing for elections. Going tobe adeputy. Can you imagine?

Bunny! Sorry Icant speak long.

Hmm. When are you back?

Intwo months Ihope! Visit my Mum, tell her Icalled. Or live with her for some time, willyou?

No, its abit improper. Lera drawled.

Angry Garov nearly hung up. Improper! Improper for his wife tolive with his mother! Just for moral support and help about the house.

Valeria, times up! Garov said, tired.

Well, bye! Lera hungup.

Ensign Merdyev entered the room stealthily and slapped Garov on his shoulder:

Dont hold the line! Maybe, someones calling here! Whats at home? Youre lucky if you got through!

Garov hung up, clutched abunch ofkeys nervously from the table:

Thats the end! Yes, thats the end! and went out quickly.

Almost all gathered at the table. The women put on their best dresses, the men their medals and orders. Garov who ofcourse came late was offered aplace near Ensign Lyuba Antonova. She began topatronize Garov at table. But he wanted neither spirits nor salads Lyuba offered him and answered Yes or No toall her questions.

And it doesnt take arocket scientist tounderstand why Lyuba was so tender with Garov. Vadim Smirnov with his wife Svetlana was right toher. Lyuba was full ofjealosy. So she was going totempt Garov and thus revenge Smirnov.

Lyuba invited Garov toaslow dance and became too sentimental listening toTalkovs song. She pressed herself toGarov passionately during the refrain phrase Youll come tome But itll be too late.

At first Garov didnt react at all. But step bystep he began tofeel extremely strong gravity tothe knolls ofher nipples (and without bra!) So he pushed her abit aside.

After the last accord ofSummer Rain Garov rushed tothe street.

Where are you going, Sasha? Lyuba said with caress.

Ineed some fresh air. Its abit stuffy here.

May Igotoo?

Well, whynot.

So Antonova nearly achieved her goal. The culmination ofthat sudden gravity between two bodies was forthcoming Many girls had dreamed todraw Garov tobed. But they had failed. But not she! Antonova anticipating her triumph pretended tobe drunk. She clutched his hand. But suddenly she felt that her other hand was grabbed by whom do you think?.. bySmirnov!

Smirnov was burnt with curiosity. He followed them inthe darkness leaving his talkative Svetlana with Nikishovs wife.

Well, well, well! Where going to, you little doves?!

Antonova kept her head:

Im free and Ican walk with whom Iwant? Go, Comrade Major, toyour dear wife!

Smirnov told Garov inawhisper:

Look here, leaveus, OK. Well have achat!

Garov didnt rejoin the celebrating company and went tobed. But he couldnt sleep. Went out again. Antonovas and Smirnovs voices came from the bathhouse. The stars were shimmering. Then the voices died away. Very soon the Major appeared pulling inhis belt and shouted inthe dark doorway ofthe bathhouse: If Isee you with someone else Ill punish you!. Not seeing Garov Smirnov passed byhim and muttered tohimself: Hm Garov she wanted! Fig toher!

Silence covered all around. And only the rockets offireworks flying up tothe sky sometimes brokeit.

Alex sat on the steps ofthe commandants office and Djohar the dog came up tohim. He touched Sashas chest with his moist nose. The young man hugged him as if the dog could realize his misery.




Chapter13


Dasha Sviridenko went onto the balcony. Somewhere at the distance the darkness was torn bythe salute and inher thoughts there was astrange inexplicable connection between the darkness ofthe night and what was on behind her back afeast inanew flat gifted tothem, ayoung married couple, byher in-laws.

The house-warming dated for the 7th ofNovember was at its height. One toast after another, plenty ofvodka, broken glasses

But where is Dasha? Did you hear her singing? Shes the greatest singer! her father-in-law boasted tothe guests.

Yes?! adrunken mans voice answered. And whats she singing? Let her sing ofanightingale!

What ahell ofanightingale? arude stout woman inher fifties with ared drunken face. Can she sing Am Iguilty or not??! and at once sang that song loudly.

Then the boozy company caught up the words That Ilove!..

Dasha squatted down, closed her ears with her hands and words themselves began toform asort ofornament ofverses:

Among noisy and shameless struggle

For the small sweet oftoyish power

Son is growing. And for happiness

Im begging the fate.

Not for me, but for him only.

Dasha, what on earth are you doing here? her husband rushed tothe balcony.

Me? Just make poems.

What?! Lets go inside! Youll freeze here! Why did you leaveus?

Wait aminute. Lets stay here for awhile. Look heres the Milky Way! Iwonder if theres anyone alive among the stars? Like ahuman being?

Dasha, dont be angry with me but Icant lisp. Well, the Milky way, Isee it. But what ofit? Its all the same tome. No matter if theres anyone or not. Im more anxious about my future place ofservice. Bythe way, your aunt Galya promised totalk toher son, acolonel, about it. And what?!

Darling, you have ayear before you tofindit!

You think its alot oftime? No, it isnt. Time flies you know! And whats then?! Togo toGrozny, towar? Todeath? Or you want your son tolose his father?! Maybe, you dont love me at all?! Maybe, youre fed up with my parents?! Why deuce are you here now?! Sent our Max toyour bloody Mummy beforehand! Or my mother cant do with children?!

Oh, Sasha! Hes only two months old. Too little! Why on earth fetch him tothis booze!

Dont speak any more! If you want tostay at the damned balconyOK!

The pane inthe balcony door clinked Alex Sviridenko shut it violently behindhim.

Oh, my Lord! Ill stand it! Stand it! Stand t! Im strong! Strong! All will be alright! Alright! Alright! Alright! Dasha repeated toherself clinching her fists. Please, God! Let everyone be happy! But her tears dropped.




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