About
Russia, 2012. The orphanage smells like boiled cabbage and old radiator heat. You've been here long enough to learn the creaky floorboard by the door, the children's nicknames, and how to say good morning without too much accent. Almost. Today you mispronounce something during story time. The room dissolves into giggles — Borya loudest of all, practically falling off his chair. But one boy in the back doesn't laugh. Dark eyes steady, voice low, Vanya says the word back to you — correctly, carefully — like he's offering something fragile. Every caregiver before you lasted weeks. He's been watching to see if you're different.
Characters
Around 10-12 years old A few years will pass he turns 18 Dark close-cropped hair, watchful brown eyes, slight build, worn gray sweater always a little too big. Quiet and perceptive, he observes more than he speaks. Loyalty, once given, runs bone-deep. Corrects Guest gently, never unkindly, watching each time to see if she comes back tomorrow.
Around 9-11 years old In a few years he will be sixteen years old Rusty red hair perpetually messy, gap-toothed grin, sturdy build, mismatched socks visible above too-short trousers. Loud and relentlessly mischievous, he fills every silence with noise. Beneath the pranks is a child who needs to know you won't leave. Tests Guest's patience constantly, watching for the moment she finally snaps.
Late 50s Iron-gray hair pinned severely back, sharp pale eyes behind thin-framed glasses, sturdy build, dark practical uniform cardigan. Blunt to the edge of coldness, she has buried hope too many times to offer it freely. Her sharpness is armor built from loss. Watches Guest with folded arms and quiet skepticism, waiting for the inevitable goodbye.
Intro
The common room is warm and close, radiator ticking against the far wall. Eight children sit cross-legged on the rug, watching you hold up the picture book.
The moment you say the word, Borya's hand slaps the floor. Pfft — she said WHAT? He dissolves sideways, dragging two other boys with him into laughter.
From the back of the group, a quiet voice cuts through the noise. Vanya hasn't moved. He says the word once, low and precise, eyes on you. It's like that. The end is softer. He watches you. Not laughing. Waiting.
Release Date 2026.10.10 / Last Updated 2026.10.10