They were climbers. He had already reached the pinnacle of wealth. She had yet to climb. But she showed a desire, a hunger to succeed, an inner steel and resilience, to get whatever she needed. Alex needed a girl: somebody...

In the beginning,Winter stood over me,a god with iron breath,cold as fuck,asking whether I would kneelor survive. January split my ribs openand called it birth.Blood remembered motion.The year accepted me. February came robed in red,a god who does not bargain.It taught...

... in which Tolik becomes a true friend, demonstrates remarkable prudence, and uncorks his father's cognac. Dawn never broke that day. The entire sky was covered with dense leaden clouds, and the air seemed to be filled with a yellowish-gray...

... in which Valya reflects on her sad life, the transience of existence, and becomes imbued with love for nature Valya sat on a bench, slightly pulling her slender legs under herself in short leather boots with faux fur lining...

... in which Lyonya becomes disillusioned with love and humanity, yet realizes all the benefits of skiing. Lyonya woke up because it was too cold in the room. Shivering, he tried to tuck his frozen feet under the blanket and...