Meet Sasha’s uncle

It’s another long day walking along the roadside. Time passes slowly, and we are tired by the time we reach our destination late in the evening.

Sasha knocks on her uncle’s apartment door. There’s no answer at first.

“Maybe he’s not here.” I say.

I’m interrupted by the sound of a chain rattling. The door opens and a face sticks out.

“Sasha!” He exclaims.

The door slams shut and we hear the chain rattle again as he takes it off. He opens the door in front of us. He’s an older man, but I can see her face in his.

“I’m so happy to see you!” He says, and embraces her.

“I’m happy to see you too.” She says.

They break apart and he steps back.

“What are you doing here?” He asks. “Who’s this?”

“Uncle Fedor, this is my roommate Tatyana.” She introduces me.

“It’s nice to meet you.” I say.

“Likewise.” He says, before turning to his niece.

“Our university isn’t safe anymore. We were hoping we could stay here for a few days while we figure out what to do.” Sasha tells him.

“You can stay as long as you like.” He assures us. “And any friend of Sasha’s is a friend of mine.”