Mikhail knows better; he's a renowned movie fan,» Berta said with a touch of humor, but it was evident that she spoke about her brother with great admiration.
Mikhail worked at the Soyuzkino Leningrad factory and was credited as a cameraman for several famous films that Mark had already seen. Among them were not only the serious Strange Shore, which dealt with the re-education of a sailor who had lost his vigilance, but also the lighthearted domestic comedy, The Grandmothers' Revolt. Mark had seen it with Sacha, and they had a delightful time.
This film presented a humorous tale of «forbidden» love between a Jewish girl and a Russian guy. Interestingly, it was the grandmothers, with the assistance of the Komsomol cell, who understood the situation and came forward to help the young lovers.
«Oh, the Grandmothers' Revolt? That was something!»
«Did you enjoy it?» asked Berta.
«There were some truly funny moments! The old ladies were excellent,» Mark replied.
Mark listened with keen interest and observed the furnishings: elegant furniture, tasteful curtains adorning the windows, and framed photographs capturing the Galper family during their younger days. It was evident how diligently they endeavored to preserve the warmth and harmonious family atmosphere. Anna, too, aspired for such comfort, although her circumstances were more limited. Upon learning that the young man hailed from Third Meshchanskaya Street, the occupants of Third Sovetskaya Street found much amusement.
The ambiance in the apartment was welcoming and congenial, extending a friendly embrace to the guest. The Galpers were genuinely well-disposed, and Anna empathized with the hardships faced by the Maretsky family. Having experienced the tumultuous years of 1905, the revolutions of 1917, and the famine during the Civil War in St. Petersburg-Petrograd, they could understand the trials that had befallen the amiable young man.
«Yes, these days we have pies aplenty. But in the spring of 18, I remember, a mere ounce of bread was a rarity… around 30 grams per person. We endured it all,» Anna's eyes welled up with tears.
«Come now, Anna, don't,» Isaac's voice quivered with emotion. «You know, during those times, Petrograd was reeking of dried fish. That's all we could get. I'll never eat vobla again in my life!»
«Fish saved us in Henichesk too,» Mark recalled those years vividly, reminiscing on the hunger that gripped the nation. He recounted how he had to seek refuge in the cellar during the pogroms.
In essence, these two families, having weathered the storms of change, found a profound connection and shared experiences.
Tragic memories were abruptly interrupted by the scent of burnt pastries.
«Oh!» Berta suddenly leaped from the table, «the pies!»
«How could we forget?» Mom lamented.
«It's all because of the cadet, my girls,» Alexander teased good-naturedly.
«I'll help!» Mark eagerly offered, hurrying after the young mistress.
He was unnecessary in the cramped kitchen, Berta was more than capable of handling it herself. She swiftly retrieved the baking tray.
«At least they didn't burn too badly, and I don't think they're all ruined…» she hurriedly placed the pastries on a plate. «But what to do with the burnt ones?»
«I vow not to let them go to waste!» Mark declared, eager to win her favor.
Throughout the tea party, he racked his brain for a way to be alone with Bertha. «Should I ask her for a walk? But will she agree?» These thoughts consumed him, and he sensed that now was the opportune moment.
Maretsky hesitated a little, «Um, we're supposed to get to know each other.»
«We?!»
Is she going to revert to her previous behavior?
«Alright, me. But will you give a poor cadet a chance?» The hope in his voice was hard to say no to.
«Alright, what do you suggest?»
«Get ready. I've got something to show you.»
When they stepped outside, the sun was shining and not a trace of rain lingered in the sky. Grateful for the pleasant weather and Bertha's agreeability, Mark inquired, «Have you been to the Aeromuseum?»
«You mean the one that replaced the Suvorov Museum? No.»
«That's alright. I'll be your tour guide.»
He adopted the most suitable tactic: women admire men who are passionate about their work. And if they can also articulate it in a captivating manner… Well, as the famous heartbreaker Valeriy used to say, «girls fall in love not only with their ears, of course, but with them too.» He certainly knew a thing or two about such matters!
In the Aeromuseum, Mark showcased an unexpected side to his companion: intelligent, well-read, and courteous. This provincial lad was making quite an impression. Few St. Petersburg gentlemen could rival him, and their chances were dwindling rapidly. Bertha regarded Mark with a newfound warmth and interest…
As he bid farewell to the girl and walked along Third Sovetskaya Street, Mark noticed something intriguing:
«I would change the name of your street to ours,» he remarked.
«Why is that?» inquired Bertha.
«Your surroundings fit me better,» he explained.
«Didn't you like it here?» she asked.
«Oh, I absolutely loved it. It's so cozy. My sister in Moscow is trying to create a similar ambiance, but…»
Mark paused, searching for the right words to convey his feelings.
Bertha understood and gently touched his arm, saying, «Ambiance is important. When I have my own family, I want to create a warm and inviting space for everyone. A big table to gather the whole family. But, of course, ambiance isn't the most crucial aspect. It's all about the relationships, isn't it?»
Her seriousness melted into a smile, and she added playfully, «Though a big round table is a must!»
«I guarantee you a table!» Mark replied.
«Did I say I would sit at that table with you?!» she teased.
Without engaging in an argument, Mark simply responded, «We'll see.»
They were nearing Bertha's house.
«But that doesn't mean we can't go to the movies, right?» he inquired.
«We'll see,» she playfully echoed, and with a laugh, she disappeared into the entrance.
As Mark made his way back to the barracks, he was filled with a newfound sense of confidence. He was certain there would be movies, walks, and even a wedding in their future.
Soon, it became evident that they were a perfect match for each other. Bertha, daring and strong-willed, proved to be surprisingly tender, accommodating, and understanding – a true ideal life companion for a military man. Their affection for each other was tender and attentive,
