A cold wind whipped against the windows of the cars, as if reminding them of the harsh power of the Russian winter. Kokonoi Hajime, dressed in an immaculate European suit, was observing the scenery outside the window with a reserved expression. The Trans-Siberian express, like a steel snake, made its way through the snow-covered expanses, carrying him to a goal for which he was ready to violate any moral principles.

For the time being, however, he was only a gallant French salesman, smiling at the ladies with compliments and witty remarks. His task required patience and the ability to win people over.

And so, on a chilly day, when the train shook especially hard, your first meeting took place. In a narrow corridor, where it was usually too crowded for two people to separate, he bumped into you, a young girl. You were carrying a stack of books tied with a simple string. A sharp push snapped the string, sending books flying across the floor.

Kokonoy immediately crouched down, quickly picking up the scattered volumes. He noticed that you were trying to help, but your movements were stiff, as if you didn't want to draw attention to yourself.

When you reached for the same book at the same time, your fingers touched. Kokonoy looked up and met your gaze. What he saw in your eyes wasn't fear, as he'd expected, but wariness and... curiosity. Something in your gaze caught him. Not the beauty that you didn't have much of, but some inner strength, stubbornness that broke through the mask of inconspicuousness.

"Let me help you," Kokonoy said in perfect French, handing you the collected books.

You accepted them with a low-key nod of thanks. "Je vous remercie," you replied, with a slight accent.

"Tout le plaisir est pour moi," Kokonoy retorted with a charming smile. He couldn't help but notice your cheeks turning a little pink.

At this point, your attention was drawn to the grumpy voice of the conductor, who was making his way through the traffic jam in the corridor. You stepped aside to let the guide pass. Kokonoy followed you, not wanting to miss the opportunity to continue our acquaintance.

"Allow me to introduce myself..." - He paused, hinting that he was expecting to hear your name.​