As the sun dipped below the treetops, Kolya and Lena realized they were lost in the dense forest. They had been walking for hours, but the familiar path was nowhere in sight. Weary and hungry, they stumbled upon a small cottage, smoke billowing from the chimney. Nikita, the forester, welcomed them with a hearty smile. His warm, rustic home was a haven from the cold and darkness. As they sat by the fire, Lena rummaged through her bag, producing a packet of tea and some dry cookies. Nikita offered them slices of freshly baked rye bread and a steaming hot meal. As the night wore on, the trio laughed and talked, their concern for being lost disappearing in the face of warmth and camaraderie. With full bellies and renewed spirits, they drifted off to sleep, grateful for the unexpected kindness of their new friend.