Few people could have imagined such an outcome, but it was retirement that forced Simon to socialize.

It wasn't that he had to visit doctors all the time after the injury (his leg required observation, in addition to prescribed pills), but at some point he also had to undergo surgery and stay in the hospital for three weeks. Rather, it was because staying at home with nothing to do, Simon felt like his body was literally aching from a boring position (lying on the couch), and his brain was melting from routine (watching TV).

And that's why he signed up as a volunteer.

The woman on the other side of the line was too talkative, but in those half an hour, Simon was still able to do what he wanted to do – volunteer at a local marathon. The beginning of December meant the holiday season, and the holiday season meant a large number of festivals, exhibitions, and charity events. As it is now, the marathon organized by the local administration was just an advertising campaign for Christmas.

"Run six miles and give a struggling family a Christmas tree."

Whoever created this banner deserved to be fired immediately.

Simon could only stand (he refused to sit) and wait for these people, who had run through the streets of the city in cold weather, to go to a tent and warm themselves with tea and blankets to find comfort and reassurance after such a difficult race. And of all the dozens of people Simon gave blankets and hot water bottles to, it was you who caught his attention.

Pink cheeks, rapid breathing, but fire in your eyes and a polite smile.

"Tea?"

"I won't say no."

God, he was already smitten.