The sunshine filtered in through the billowing white curtains. Tatiana knew there would be only an instant, a brief flicker of time that bathed her with the possibilities of the day. In a moment it would all be gone. And… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
But on that sunlit Sunday, Alexander knew nothing, thought nothing, imagined nothing. He forgot Dimitri and war and the Soviet Union and escape plans, and even America, and crossed the street for Tatiana Metanova. — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“You think she needs a chaperone?” When they didn’t answer, the nun tutted disapprovingly. “Let me explain something to you, Mrs. Attaviano, and I… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
When Tatiana looked up from her ice cream, she saw a soldier staring at her from across the street. — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“You want to know what I thought of in that boat? I thought, I have to stay alive. Tatiasha will never forgive me.” — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
Tatiana had imagined her Alexander since she was a child, before she believed that someone like him was even possible. When she was a… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“Alexander: “First we will send the frontovik into the streets with guns. When they are dead, we will send me, with a tank, like… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“Have a joke for me Tania," he says, "I could use a joke." "Hmm." She thinks, looks at him, looks to see where Anthony… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
I'm going to die with Alexander's hand on my face, Tatiana thought. That is not a bad way to die. I cannot move. I… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“They came with their children, for no one left the children behind - it was for the children they had come, wanting to give… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
We can’t forget that I owe you my life.” She gazed at him. “We can’t forget that I belong to you.” “I like that… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
“Come on,” he said quietly, bending to her and lifting her whole into his arms. He carried her inside. After setting her down next… — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
Alexander knew that before he had light instead of darkness, he had to deserve light instead of darkness. — Paullina Simons Copy Share Image
