Chapter 19

Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Koulikov, bachelor and soldier, married Rivka Velonina, widow, during a short civil ceremony in Red Army Headquarters on a warm, July day in the battered city of Stalingrad.

Rivka wore a silk scarf that had belonged to her mother, and Nikolai was in full dress uniform, and for once had been cajoled into wearing his medals. Rivka thought he was magnificent, and did not hesitate to tell him so. Nikolai thought the beautiful, soft dark colours of the scarf make Rivka look like an angel.

Their only witnesses were Doctor Oleg Chernyenko and his newly pregnant wife Anna, a young Political Officer called Igor Semyonovich Danilov, and a grubby crew of mechanics from a motor pool somewhere down on the banks of the river Volga.

The ceremony was quiet and intimate, Corporal Nikitin snivelled happily throughout, and was given a handkerchief on which to blow his capacious nose by a sympathetic Anna, who declined when Nikitin tried to return the now oily and snotty handkerchief.

When the ceremony was over and Nikolai and Rivka had filled in and signed the required documentation, Nikolai lifted his heavily-pregnant wife in his strong arms, kissed her thoroughly and carried her outside into the bright sunshine. Waiting for them, ready to carry them home to their spartan cellar, was an army truck decked out with strips of brightly-coloured rags and rattling with empty corned-beef tins, courtesy of Nikitin's scruffy compatriots.

When they got home Nikolai's most recent bunch of trainees awaited them, and Nikolai had to cope with a lot of hand-shaking and back-slapping, the big man flushed with pride and delight as he saw his beloved Rivka, his wife, welcome their guests to their home.

In this time of war there was little in the way of gift giving, but there was plenty of food, a good supply of drink, and above all, companionship and good will. Nikolai treated Rivka Koulikova, sitting ensconced in his big chair, like a precious jewel. She sat back and enjoyed the attention for once, graciously realising that as this was her wedding day, she was to let everyone else do the work and just relax and enjoy herself.

The celebratory party continued into the evening, with music and laughter, good food and not a little alcohol, but by midnight it was time to leave. All of the guests were back on duty in the morning, as was the now cheerfully weary bridegroom. Rivka herself was sitting drowsily in the chair, overwhelmed by the genuine kindness of her friends, tired beyond measure but very, very happy.

As Nikolai said goodnight to Oleg and Anna, the last to leave, Rivka smiled as he bolted the heavy door behind him and stretched. She cocked her head to one side, studying his broad, brawny frame and long legs, admiring the easy strength in him. He ambled towards her and she watched as Nikolai knelt down before her and lifted her hands from her lap.

"Well, Missus Koulikova, it's 'way past your bed-time. You should be resting, you know. And don't argue - your husband knows best!"

Rivka arched an eyebrow.

"Does he, indeed? Well, I suppose I should obey my new lord and master and take myself off to bed and await his pleasure?"

Nikolai chuckled.

"Hah! Lord and master, you say? Yes, well, I'm not going to hold my breath expecting you to do anything I say, woman! Far too independent, that's what you are, my lady Rivka! Not that I would have it any other way." His voice softened as his face became serious. "I'll try to be a good husband to you, Rivka, you know that. You're all I ever wanted ... all I need. I'll do my best to keep you safe, and support you in anything you want to do." Rivka saw the love in those fathomless azure eyes as he continued, his thumbs stroking the back of her hands as he spoke, the big man needing the contact. "I hope I don't disappoint you, and I hope I can be a good father too. I love you, Rivka Koulikova. I always have, from the first moment I saw you. And I'll love you till the day I die."

And Rivka saw the truth of it in his gaunt face and her heart filled with the love in it. Lifting her hands, still enclosed in his, she cradled his face and kissed his sweet lips, feeling him return it in full. Breaking off, she smiled with unshed tears in her eyes.

"Nikolai Koulikov, you are a romantic old fool, and I love you so much, you know that, don't you?"

Nikolai grinned.

"Well, I can't imagine why, but seeing as you apparently do I won't jinx it by asking for reasons! Now, woman, to bed with you!"

Rising from his knees, he helped Rivka to stand, her swollen body finding it awkward to get out of the chair. She stood for a moment, rubbing her back.

"Oh, Niko, I wish I could hurry up and have this baby! It seems I can't get comfy these days, my back aches all the time, and I don't seem to have seen my feet in months!" Walking to the bed she began to slip out of her clothes, Nikolai helping her unfasten her shoes and undo buttons. As she undressed she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror and sighed sadly. "Look at me, Niko! Blown up like a carthorse!"

Nikolai shook his head, smiling, as he helped her slip out of her petticoats and held out her nightgown for her. It was new - well, new for Rivka, made from some light cotton sheets young Lubov had acquired from a supply officer. Rivka had made some bedding for the crib from them, then decided to make herself some summer night-gowns from the remainder, and Nikolai had admired the beautiful, fine stitching and gathered bodice, showing off her full breasts. She slipped it on and looked down at her very pregnant stomach before she began to button the gown.

"Now then, Rivka, stop complaining. You look wonderful!" Nikolai stood behind her and held her in his arms, one of his big hands cupping her breast and rubbing the enlarged nipple, marvelling at the full ripeness of it as Rivka's body prepared itself for motherhood. "See? See how glorious you are?" His hand left her breast and travelled down to stroke her belly, his fingers trailing pleasurable sparks over her skin. " I wish I could make love to you, Rivka ... I want you ... I want you all the time ..." His voice was husky with passion, and Rivka could feel the press of his arousal against her back, and knew her Niko wanted her. But she also knew he wouldn't take her ... not yet, not until after the baby was born, as Oleg had advised against it, and Nikolai, worried about hurting her, would abstain until it was deemed the right time.

She reached back and stroked his hip lovingly.

"I wish we could, love ... I need you so, you know that!" She turned in his arms and pressed against him, her breasts against his chest and her swollen belly against his flat abdomen. "I'm sorry, Niko - "

Nikolai looked down at her, frowning.

"None of that now, woman, no apologies! I'll be happy to wait, you know that." He kissed her. "Now, into bed with you, and I hope you're up to a bit of cuddling, as I want to snuggle up to my wife."

Rivka smiled up at him, and standing on tiptoe, kissed him on the end of his nose. Nikolai grinned, charmed by the familiar gesture, and between them they buttoned up her gown and Nikolai helped her into bed. She lay comfortably under the blankets and yawned, watching as her husband stripped wearily down to his army shorts and joined her in their big bed. He gathered her into his arms and Rivka arranged her body around his as well as she could, cradling her head on his shoulder. Nikolai felt her belly pressed against his hip and the sturdy kick from the child within. Rivka shifted uncomfortably.

"Oh, I wish I could have the baby right this minute! I feel so ... so ... clumsy!"

Nikolai kissed her forehead and lifted her chin so he could look into the deep velvet of her brown eyes.

"He'll arrive when he's good and ready woman, and not a moment before." He thought for a second, and Rivka sensed the hesitation in him. "Rivka ..."

"Mmm-hmm?" She knew it - something was bothering him.

"What if ... I ... I mean, when the baby comes ... what do I do? Do you want me to stay, or ... or ... well, should I go and wait outside, or ..." He frowned. He wasn't explaining himself very well, as usual. He decided to just come out with it. "Well, dammit, Rivka, I want to be there! I want to hold your hand, or do something at least, to help!"

Rivka was somewhat taken aback. Nikolai? Present when she had the baby? Why, she had never heard of such a thing! Men usually stayed away … this was women's work, after all, and wasn't a fit place for a husband. Or so she had always been taught. Many a time she had helped the doctor in the schtetl at a confinement and the poor papa was banished to the kitchen - or if he was of a particularly nervous bent, sent outside and told to go and do some work, he would be more useful that way. But never, never, was an expectant papa allowed anywhere near his wife during her confinement. And here was her new husband demanding to help out! She looked up into his face and saw how anxious he was, and remembered how horrified he had been when she had been hurt by Gavri Velonin. Perhaps he would be easier in himself if he was allowed at least to hold her hand and offer encouragement. Maybe it wouldn't be such a bad thing, she decided. At least she could keep an eye on him that way, and, she thought, it would be wonderful to have him beside her. A comfort and a blessing to her as always. She arched an eyebrow at him questioningly.

"Hmmm. Are you sure, Niko? I mean, it's a messy business. Are you sure you can cope? It can take a long time, you know, and - "

"Rivka Koulikova!" Nikolai was indignant. "What do you think I am? Some poor innocent lad who's never seen a bit of mess and blood before? You're having a baby, woman, not being disembowelled!!! I've seen a lot worse, I can tell you! Don't you worry about me, Missus, I'll be just fine!" Nikolai had such a look of determination on his face that Rivka couldn't control the giggle.

"Yes, well … we shall see, my Niko … we shall see …" She tilted an amused smile at him. "But if you faint Oleg will just leave you where you fall, you know, and we'll get on with having this baby without you, so don't let me down."

"Hah!" Nikolai was bemused by the idea of fainting. As if he, Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Koulikov of the 284th Rifle Division and certified Hero could do such a thing! "Faint indeed! Just you wait, my lady Rivka, I'll be there yelling encouragement and being a model husband, just you wait and see if I don't!" He grinned, relieved. Now he could relax knowing that he would be with her through the ordeal - he didn't know if he could have stood being away from her when she needed him, as he had been while Oleg tended her hurts. It had almost killed him inside, not knowing what was going on. He traced her cheekbone and bent down to kiss her, and he felt Rivka settle against him in contentment.

They lay quietly for a while, Rivka resting her hand on his bare chest, rubbing the skin absently as she always did, knowing it soothed him. She could see the white scars on his chest from the shrapnel she had taken from him all those long months ago, and ran a finger along the line of the scar on his side.

"So many scars, my love …"

Nikolai nuzzled in her thick, heavy hair, and drowsily studied her face as she lay against him.

"Mmm. I'm a bit battered and frayed around the edges, my lady. I'm not much of a catch you know - I've seen and done too much, and you're not getting the fittest fellow in the world. A bit of an old war-horse really, and definitely getting too old for all of this fighting."

Rivka levered herself up on her elbow and gazed at him intently, seeing the thoughtful look on his face.

Yes, she thought. Scarred and battered and worn. You've been hard used, my Niko … hard used and you've paid the price. But don't worry. I'll take care of you, and your son will make you young again, I just know it …

Without thinking, she reached up and kissed the scar in his hairline, now fading to white, the cut caused when the wall fell on him and Rivka had nursed him through the long, pain-filled night, loving him with all of her heart but not knowing it, not then. But he smiled with pleasure at her kiss, and heartened, Rivka leaned over him to kiss the faint scars on his chest, the softness of her lips and the love in her heart easing him as he lay beside her. Reaching over she lifted his big-knuckled hand and kissed the healing cut on the back of his wrist, and for the first time noticed the small, almost faded white scars around the wrist itself. She wondered why she had never noticed them before, as she knew his body well. But then, she realised, she had never taken time to discover the little things about him. She had either been loving him with her body or tending him through dreadful illness, and she had never allowed herself the luxury of exploring his big, muscular frame properly.

"These scars … where did you get them?" She looked up at his face expectantly to see a shadow pass over his features, and instantly regretted her question. But a smile from him reassured her.

"Prison. I got them in prison. Both hands, if you look hard enough. Ankles too. I was tied …" His voice died away, unable to continue. But Rivka looked at him with such naked love and compassion, and when she bent her head to his wrist and kissed the scars he could have wept at the tenderness in her touch. Her lips were balm both on his body and soul, and when Rivka lifted his other hand and kissed that scarred wrist too, Nikolai felt the pain of the dreadful memories begin to fade with each feather-soft touch of her lips.

So Rivka began to discover each scar on his battered frame, and every time she found one she had not noticed before she asked him about it, without shame or fear, and he found himself opening up to her like a flower, each kiss she bestowed on him healing a little more of his damaged soul. From the scar on his thigh he had gained as a boy, falling from a harvesting binder, to the still pink, raw scar on his arm from the bullet wound that had almost killed him, allowing the typhus into his weakened body as the lice swarmed on his starved frame … she kissed them all, tenderly, lovingly, and Nikolai felt himself cleansed by her love.

She explored him as he lay acquiescent beside her, and her black hair fell on his skin, a silken black waterfall of sensation, and after a while her kisses became more urgent and insistent, her teeth nipping his skin and sending shudders through his long body. Her hands caressed his ribs and belly, then they drifted down to his hips as Rivka shifted onto her knees to get better access to him. She came back up his body and kissed him on the lips with soft, sensual passion and Nikolai gasped as her breasts brushed his chest through the thin, delicate cotton.

Smiling knowingly, Rivka settled back on her haunches and slowly unbuttoned the gown until it fell away from her body, and Nikolai drank in her beauty with hazy azure eyes. He gazed at the swell of the child, smooth and rounded, her full, big-nippled breasts jutted firm and tempting, and he ached to suckle them. He was already aroused, his manhood lying hard beneath the constrictive shorts, but he hesitated.

"Rivka, we can't - "

She smiled mysteriously.

"No love, we can't, but I can please you, my sweet Niko …"

Rivka leaned forward, kissing him, and her body then moved upwards so he could nuzzle at her breasts. Before he could stop himself he took an engorged nipple in his mouth and suckled, his hands cupping both of them as she knelt above him, her bare belly rubbing his broad chest. A moan escaped him despite his hesitation, and Rivka watched his mouth tenderly nurse at her nipple, loving the sensation he was giving her. She would enjoy loving him, she knew, and although unable to take him inside her she would use her body to please him in other ways. She saw how his eyes closed as the pleasure began to take him, and she crooned softly.

"There, my Niko … you feel so good … yes … all for you, my love … always …"

And as she spoke she stroked down his shoulder to his stomach, trailing cool fingers down his heated flesh. She teased the hard nub of his left nipple, making a heady gasp come from him, and as she moved further down his taut belly his breath quickened. One of his hands left her breast and caught her wrist, pushing her hand further down so she could tease the sensitive flesh below his navel, easing gently below the waistband of his old shorts.

Nikolai's head fell back on the pillow with a heady groan, Rivka's nipple glossy from his attentions, and she saw the tension in his neck and chest.

"Rivka … touch me … please, Rivka … hold me … I … I need … touch …"

Rivka's mouth stopped his breathless words with a kiss, her tongue gently probing, Nikolai returning the kiss with increased urgency. But he almost cried out as she left kissing his mouth to turn her attention back to his body. Burning kisses were scattered on broad shoulders and the sweep of his collarbones, down the line of his breastbone to his heaving ribs. She once more kissed his scars and nuzzled the dark line of hair leading to his groin. Insistent hands tugged the waistband of his shorts and Nikolai lifted his hips, allowing Rivka to ease the restrictive material from his body, a deep groan accompanying the release of his erection from its soft prison. Rivka tossed the shorts onto the floor in a second and returned to her loving of her husband, her mouth torturing his heated skin with the gentlest of caresses.

Nikolai lay swamped by sensation. Rivka's hands and mouth were everywhere, one minute suckling and nipping his scarred knuckles, her tongue and fingers laying a heated trail of tingling joy up to the sensitive inside hollow of his elbow, then she would move languorously to his nipples, hidden in the soft drift of curls on his chest. Gasping and trembling, he lifted his hand and stroked the wealth of her hair as she aroused his war-scarred, battered body with sensuous pleasure.

"Rivka … God, Rivka … what you do to me, woman …" His voice was coming now in breathless pants.

Rivka smiled to herself, her own body yearning for him but gladly foregoing her own pleasure this time. Her Niko had made her into a sensual, loving woman, shown her how wonderful making love could be, and she had every intention of showing him how much she had learned. He had given her so much, and she wanted to give him something back … especially on this night of nights … their first as husband and wife.

Her attentions became more insistent, and touching Nikolai's knee she pushed gently, his legs parting. Her body was awkward, but with Nikolai's help she moved between them and from then on her loving of him became unbearably delicious. As she kneeled over his body her breasts brushed his penis, now rigid with need, and Rivka rocked gently back and forth, the nipples rubbing against his arousal and sending Nikolai arching upwards, one of his hands now clutching the bed-rail above his head, the muscles of his arm bunched and trembling. A guttural cry escaped him as Rivka suckled the skin of his chest, her hair lying in an ebony pool over him. Rivka realised her hair was an instrument of tortuous pleasure to him, and delighted, she lazily swept the soft waves of silken hair over his belly, working her way down to the hollow of his flank.

His skin here was especially sensitive she had discovered, and rather than touch him she breathed softly over his hipbone and groin, and his skin shivered in anticipation. His breath was coming in short, desperate pants now and he lifted his free hand from where it was bunched around the bedclothes to her head, fingers entwining in that glorious hair. Lifting his head from the pillow Nikolai looked down at her … and his breath hitched.

God, look at her, he thought. Her face was intense and her hair spread over his belly and flank, silken and shimmering in the lamp-light. He could see the shadow of her breasts, smooth and firm, as she knelt between his thighs and he groaned as she finally settled a lingering kiss on his flank, her lips burning him with lustful fire. He could hardly contain himself - if only she would touch him … if she didn't he would come anyway, aroused beyond belief by the whisper of her hair on him, and gritting his teeth he tried to keep some sort of control on his reactions. He wanted her mouth on him so badly …

He tried to guide her head towards his arousal and she soothed him quietly.

"Sha, love … soon … soon …"

And he called out wordlessly as he felt long fingers cup his scrotum, kneading gently. As she touched him she swayed, her hair drifting in soft swathes over his erection, now engorged almost painfully, and her dance of passion changed his gasps to deep groans of need.

"Rivka … please … you're torturing me, woman … God … please … it's too good … your … your mouth … on me … now …"

Rivka smiled up at him, seeing the perspiration on his strained body, loving the way he reacted to her touch.

"As you wish, my Niko …"

And before he could prepare himself she enveloped the velvet crown of his erection in her moist, warm mouth. His throaty grunt of pleasure almost undid her. She wanted him inside her so much her thighs quivered at the need of him, his hips lifting involuntarily as she suckled gently, her tongue laving the drops of semen from the tip, tasting the salty-sweet tang of his essence.

Nikolai spread his legs wider, driven to distraction by the dual touch of her mouth and her fingers, allowing Rivka more access to the heavy fullness of his manhood. He was almost sobbing with need now, watching as Rivka loved him with her mouth and tongue, swirling and teasing and licking him until he began to feel the tightness in his belly and groin heralding his orgasm.

He didn't think it could get any better, but then Rivka used her other hand to caress the tender skin of his lower belly and flank, palm flat on his muscled abdomen, occasionally straying to stroke the thick base of his rigid shaft. His hips were lifting at every stroke now, thrusting gently into the sweetness of her mouth, and Rivka hummed with contentment, the almost silent resonance sending shivers through him that drove him inexorably onward to his climax.

"God! God Rivka, I'm … I'm almost there … oh God … harder … please …"

She felt his testes tighten and gather closer to his body ready to expel his seed, and his penis thickened and hardened even more as she began to suckle firmly, pushing him relentlessly onward. His body was shaking with tension now and his thrusts became urgent, Rivka taking him into her mouth as deeply as she could. Her hands moved to rest on his hips, stroking the bunching muscles of his buttocks as he moved in and out of her mouth. She managed to look up and saw him sprawled in total sensual abandonment, naked and vulnerable before her, completely lost in passion. God, he was so glorious!

She felt his fingers tighten in her hair and a guttural groan rumbled from his throat ... and then his hips were bucking, his semen spurting from him in hot, liquid streams over her tongue, exploding in a sexual frenzy that had him helpless in her capable hands, his body convulsing as his orgasm took him wildly over the edge.

"Rivka!!"

Nikolai felt the world contract to nothing but the feeling of Rivka's mouth around him as he spent himself so completely the room dimmed. For long, heart-stopping moments his lungs refused to work and his body was held deep in thrall by the explosion that wracked him to his very soul … and as always, there was the presence of Rivka's love, ever soothing, ever nurturing …

With a groan he collapsed back onto the bed, utterly spent, muscles trembling, unable to move at all. He was exhausted. Rivka lifted her head and kissed away the last few drops of his seed from the tip of his softening manhood, then kissed the tender skin of his belly, pleased with the results of her loving of him.

Nikolai Koulikov was absolutely and completely sated, and was almost positive he would never be able to regain enough strength to move. His lungs managed to drag in some air although they objected to the effort and he coughed a little, causing Rivka to murmur her concern. But garnering enough strength to cup a big hand behind her head he pulled her to him for a deep, incredibly tender kiss, Nikolai tasting himself on her sweet lips. Breaking off she sat back on her haunches and studied him, noticing the long, lean muscles and powerful thighs and biceps. His chest had regained its depth and strength, but still, she thought, he had an air of vulnerability about him that had not been there before his illness. The sense of indestructibility he had always carried was now gone, she knew. He's not as strong as he looks, she thought. He never will be, not now. But at least he's safe … that's all that matters.

She settled down beside him, leaving her night-gown unbuttoned so he could stroke and caress her in the night. Since his illness Nikolai always slept on his side as his lungs were prone to congestion if he slept on his back, and having Rivka spooned in front of him made him feel complete. Pulling the blankets over them both Nikolai managed to turn onto his side and wrap himself around Rivka, his hand settling on her breast, which he stroked drowsily.

"Rivka Koulikova, I swear to God you'll be the death of me one of these days. That was … well, I can't describe it." He nuzzled the back of her neck as Rivka shifted further into his grasp. He heard her chuckle.

"Well, my love, I had a good teacher. I'll just expect you to make love to me like that after our son is born. D'you hear me?"

"Mm-hm. Don't worry … I'll make such love to you Missus, you'll be begging for more … and that's a promise …"

Rivka felt his arms tighten around her as he fell into slumber. She shifted further into his arms, kissed her husband's shoulder in a silent goodnight, and drifted into contented sleep.

*****************

As they settled happily into married life, Nikolai and Rivka carried on much as before, with Nikolai teaching a steady stream of sniper recruits, and Rivka preparing for the arrival of their baby.

Stalingrad was coming alive again, at last. The factories were being repaired and started up, once more churning out tanks and arms to support the desperate struggle taking place to the south as the Germans were pushed back into the Ukraine.

But various items were in very short supply, and Rivka spent a lot of time having furtive meetings with Nikitin and young Lubov, trying to find a way of acquiring such luxuries as diapers and a small tin bath. Even finding soap was a struggle, and Rivka began to wonder about the wisdom of having a child in the middle of a war zone. But others had done it no doubt - life went on, after all - and Rivka Koulikova wasn't a woman who took 'no' for an answer.

The diaper problem was solved when Lubov turned up with metres and metres of muslin, purloined from the huge rounds of hard cheese that arrived by truck every few days from the Russian heartlands. Rivka cut the material into large squares and sewed the edges, and even had enough left to make herself a summer blouse.

Nikolai found a large, metal washbowl with a hole in it as he walked home one sunny evening, his acquisitive nature leading him into what was left of the old quarter of the city. As he wandered past some of the devastated apartment blocks he noticed an ancient baby carriage hanging from a huge hole in the wall of a second-floor apartment. He spent a good hour picking his way through the rubble and climbing precariously up into the room via the skeletal remains of the old girders. It took him even longer to tie a rope to the carriage, lower it down and then make his way safely back to ground level. For that little escapade he earned himself a sound berating from an irate Rivka, who was convinced he could have slipped and killed himself. It was a good job she was tired, he thought, as she ran out of steam and insults, and collapsed onto the sofa to study the carriage. It needed some welding on the rear axle and the hood was torn, but other than that it was in reasonable condition, and Rivka loved it instantly. When it was returned two days later after undergoing repairs by the 6th Army number 7 motor pool attached to the Engineers, a small, somewhat worn teddy bear was tucked inside, courtesy of Corporal Ivan Grigorvich Nikitin.

Danilov organised a ration of powdered milk for Rivka and the baby, and young Lubov's talent for woodcraft resulted in a box of beautifully carved toy animals. The grubby bunch of mechanics also spent two days banging together a small water boiler and attaching it to Rivka's stove. When the stove was lit the fire kept the water constantly hot, so she wouldn't have to spend time trying to heat water manually for washing clothes. When Rivka scolded them gently for being so kind, Nikitin took her hand in his oily grasp and grinned.

"Now don't you worry, Missus - the army can just go take a bloody long walk off a short plank and cope without us for a couple of days. I've left a couple of the lads down there for show, so no-one's going to get into trouble. Anyway, me old mum always said fambly comes first, and if the bloody army wants something doing, they can just go shove it up their arses - beggin' yer pardon, Missus."

Rivka had to hold back the tears - she got awfully emotional these days - and kissed the scruffy little corporal on his stubbly cheek, causing hysteria to break out among the ranks. Nikitin just blushed and told his unrepentant crew to "bloody well watch it! Bugger it, Missus, this lot have shit for brains, I can tell you! No respect for authority ... bloody ingrates, that's what they are!"

But Rivka did have something to worry about, and that something was Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Koulikov of the 284th Rifle Division. He was slowly but surely driving her crazy.

As she became more serene in her advanced state of pregnancy, Nikolai became more agitated. He fussed and worried and nagged, and every time Rivka felt a twinge or even a hefty kick from the baby, he almost bolted out of the door to fetch Oleg. She tried to explain to him that having a baby, even when labour began, often took hours before things began to happen. He would have plenty of time to fetch the young doctor when labour finally got under way. He wasn't convinced. Her next step was to invite Oleg and Anna to supper. While she and Anna discussed having babies and 'ooh'd and ahh'd' over the baby carriage and toys, Oleg sat Nikolai down at the table and explained the whole birth procedure to him, complete with diagrams. It made Nikolai even worse. After that, each false contraction or movement made him turn pale and he began to hyperventilate.

Things came to a head when Rivka suddenly had an urge to spring-clean the cellar. For two days she shifted furniture and washed, scrubbed and generally worked herself to exhaustion. On the evening of the second day he came home to find her sitting, weary but happy, at the table with a mug of hot tea. She had spent the afternoon scrubbing the floor.

Nikolai Koulikov finally decided enough was enough. He ranted and raved, he told her she was irresponsible, and he told her she was a crazy woman. Rivka retaliated by raging at him, telling him he was a domineering bully, a martinet, and completely meshugener. All of the tensions and frustrations boiled over into an honest-to-goodness, full-blown row. Rivka was just on the point of hefting her largest skillet and heaving it at her unrepentant, irate husband when she felt something shift inside her belly.

"Oh!" Her eyes widened in surprise.

Nikolai ranted on, his voice rough with worry.

" ... and what's more, woman, the last thing you should be doing is crawling about on the floor - what do you mean, 'Oh?'"

Rivka gazed at him, her hands resting on the swell of her stomach.

"Niko, love ... I ... I think I'm having a contraction." She winced as the discomfort increased.

For a moment Nikolai's mind went blank as her words began to sink in. He blinked.

"Contraction? Don't be silly, woman! You can't be having a contraction!"

Rivka glared at him.

"Well, Nikolai Koulikov, you tell that to your son! I think he's decided - oh! - to make an appearance, so if you've finished acting like Khruschev I'd much appreciate it if you helped me into bed!"

Nikolai became ashen.

"Now? You're having the baby now??"

Rivka clutched at her belly as the contraction strengthened. "Yes, Nikolai, I bloody well am, so help me into bed, dammit!!"

By the time Rivka was sitting on the edge of the bed the contraction had subsided, and she felt able to change into a night-gown. Nikolai helped her slip on her dressing gown and she eased herself under the quilt and relaxed back on the pillows her anxious husband propped behind her shoulders.

Nikolai was on the point of charging out of the cellar to fetch Oleg when Rivka stopped him.

"Nikolai Koulikov, you come back here this instant!" Rivka was feeling a little testy still, and the big sniper thought he had better humour her, but he wasn't happy.

"Now listen to me Rivka, you're having a baby, you need a doctor, so I'm going to get Oleg right this minute!"

His voice, Rivka realised, was breaking through barely controlled panic. Her face softened. Her poor Niko. Here was a man - no, a soldier - used to taking command, a man used to dealing with life and death situations without turning a hair, and one small contraction had him shaking with fear. She gave him a tight smile.

"Niko love … listen to me. It's an early contraction, and I might have hours to go yet, so here's what I want you to do." She saw his mouth open ready to protest as he sat beside her, but she touched his lips with her hand and silenced any objections. "No, Nikolai … it's all right. There are one or two things you can do, then if it makes you feel better you can get Oleg, but God knows the poor man has enough on his plate - he's in the middle of his shift, remember? I'll tell you when I need him, I promise."

Nikolai was far from convinced, but he saw how Rivka seemed to be free of pain for the time being and he thought a few minutes delay wouldn't hurt.

"All right, Rivka," he said, shaking his head. "But if the pain gets any worse I'm off to get Oleg, d'you hear?"

Rivka patted his hand.

"Yes, love." She pulled him closer so she could kiss him gently, then she carried on. "Now, I need all of those clean towels I put aside last week, and you'll need to get a bowl for water. I have a bar of carbolic soap in the table drawer … that's right, just there. Oh, and I'll need a fresh night-gown …"

She spent a few minutes calming him down, giving him something to do while she tried to keep control of her own fear, now coupled with a growing excitement. She watched him as he busied himself, preparing things she would need later after the baby was born. Rivka couldn't help but smile. She noticed how Nikolai's hands shook as he reached into the drawer of her old dresser and brought out the small blankets she had made for the baby when it arrived. Her Niko, a man who would face the whole of the German army to protect his own, frightened to death at having to deal with the birth of a child, something that happened every moment of every day somewhere in the world.

Seven minutes later as Nikolai finished readying the crib, Rivka had another contraction. These were true labour pains radiating from her back, and Nikolai sat beside her holding her hand as she rode through the discomfort. As the pain faded he kissed her, his blue eyes alive with worry.

"Rivka, this is ridiculous! Please, let me get Oleg! You're in a lot of pain - "

" - and it's going to get a lot worse before it gets any better, Nikolai! Stop panicking, for goodness sake! I have a while to go yet I'm willing to wager, so calm down before you faint, you big oaf!" Rivka settled back in the pillows, easing her back. She squeezed his hand gently. "It's all right, Niko - I've helped deliver a few babies in my time, and it's not as bad as it looks, believe me. Now, listen love - Oleg and Anna will be by in a couple of hours, so just you keep me company until they arrive, and I promise that if it looks as though things are going to happen, you can go and fetch them then, how does that sound?"

"But Rivka - "

"Hist, love. I'm fine … just fine. The contractions are about seven minutes apart and not strong yet, so I have some time to wait. I would love some tea …"

Nikolai Koulikov was torn. Rivka looked uncomfortable and a little nervous, but her voice was calm and she seemed confident. Perhaps she was right. Oleg and Anna finished their shift in less than two hours, so maybe he could wait until then. He took a deep breath and nodded.

"All right, all right, if that's what you want. I should know better than to argue with a woman having a baby. But if - "

"Yes, yes, I know - you'll go and get Oleg!" Rivka lifted his hand and kissed the large, scarred knuckles. "Niko …"

Nikolai frowned, puzzled at the wistfulness in her tone.

"What is it? Are you in pain? Should I - "

Rivka shook her head.

"No, love. I'm just glad you're here, that's all. I …" She hesitated. "I must admit … I'm frightened, Nikolai! I need you, you big fool, and I love you, and I don't want to let you down."

Nikolai was astounded. Let him down?? What on earth was Rivka thinking about? He was appalled to see tears suddenly glisten in Rivka's eyes, and her fingers tightened convulsively on his. She looked so vulnerable and lost, like a small child, and his heart constricted in his chest with the love he felt for her. At that moment he resolved to be there beside her, through thick and thin, and she should have nothing to fear if Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Koulikov had anything to do with it. He cupped a big hand around her cheek and she leaned into it, her eyes closing at his touch.

"Now, now, Rivka … it's all right, old Papa Koulikov's here … I always will be, my beautiful lady …" He kissed her forehead. "Righto, Missus - I'll go and get that tea you wanted, and I'll be back in a moment."

Leaving her to lie quietly in their big bed, he busied himself with making tea as Rivka watched him through dark eyes huge with wonderment. 'Papa' Koulikov, he called himself.

Well, she thought, in a few hours that's exactly what you'll be, my wonderful Niko. A Papa. And a magnificent Papa you'll be, too, I'm sure. Girl or boy, it doesn't matter, because you'll love your child with all of that big, gentle heart of yours, and they will grow strong and tall and decent because of you, Nikolai Koulikov -

But her thoughts were interrupted by another contraction, and Nikolai came and sat with her and held her hand, murmuring soft words of support and love. When the pain subsided he silently handed her a mug of tea, kissed her gently and then settled down to wait.

*****************

The two hours ticked by so slowly Nikolai considered shaking the old clock on the mantelpiece to see if its innards were still working.

Rivka had become restless and Nikolai fretted quietly as she decided to get out of bed and walk around a little. There was a minor argument as he tried to reason with her, but Rivka determinedly swung her legs out from under the quilt and tried to get up. Nikolai grumbled at her, saying she should be resting, but he still crouched down and helped her slip on her old shoes so she wasn't walking on the cold floor in her bare feet.

And so they walked up and down, across the ancient floor of the old cellar, Nikolai beside his Rivka every step of the way. Whenever a contraction came she turned and leaned into his broad, reassuring chest, arms around his waist, her belly pressed against his and Nikolai's arms holding her gently. He soon discovered that if he rubbed the small of her back it helped ease the pain a little, and he would stand there, Rivka's head resting on his shoulder, gently massaging her back and warming her with his body. His words were soft and indistinct, but Rivka was soothed by his voice and she relaxed into his chest as the contractions becoming slowly stronger as time went by.

But the two hours came and went … and still no Oleg. Ten minutes … then twenty minutes overdue … when Oleg was over an hour late Nikolai cursed softly to himself.

"Where is that young bugger?? He's late, dammit!" He looked down at Rivka as she pressed once more against him, the contraction making her shiver with pain. Nikolai was all too aware that they were now coming at less than five minutes apart. Surely something must happen soon -

"Oh no !!! Rivka's wail made Nikolai jump as she pulled away from him suddenly.

"What!! What is it?? What's wrong - " His voice was raw with worry.

"My waters have broken!!" Rivka clutched at her night-gown, feeling the gush of fluid down her legs. "Oh dear …"

Before she could stop him, Nikolai swept her up into his arms, soaked clothing and all, and carried her to the bed, settling her on the old quilt she had spread over the blankets.

"Oh, Niko, I'm so sorry! I'm all wet …"

Nikolai kissed her forehead, trying to reassure her whilst quietly seething at Oleg Chernyenko's poor time-keeping.

"Shush woman, stop fretting. Don't worry - give me a minute and we'll get you all dry and tidy - "

He was gently helping her out of her sodden night-gown when they heard the clatter of footsteps outside and Oleg opened the ancient door and let himself into the cellar followed by Anna Chernyenka. He was met by a thunderous glare from irate azure eyes.

"Where the bloody hell have you been?? Rivka's in labour, and you're over an hour late, Oleg! Can't you see Rivka's in pain??"

Oleg Chernyenko had to stifle a smile as he took in the scene before him. Rivka lay on the bed as her husband fussed over her, her face turned to his, the fear rife on her lean features. Nikolai on the other hand was furious yet tender, his big hands cradling his wife as Rivka struggled to take off her wet night-gown. Nikolai draped a blanket over her to keep her warm as he turned to Oleg.

"Well??? Get on with it, man!! Do something!!"

Oleg looked down at his wife, Anna's eyes shining with excitement. He knew she was thinking about the birth of their own child, still months away.

"Anushka, take this big fool away and give him some tea while I get Rivka organised, will you? I'm sorry we were late, but I had a young soldier with gangrene brought in … I had to amputate his leg, Nikolai, and I'm sure you understand why I had to stay." Turning, he leaned down and kissed Anna as she smiled up at her husband, but she managed to tear herself away from his beautiful hazel-brown eyes and moved to stand beside Nikolai. Putting her hand on his arm she tried to get his attention.

"Nikolai, come on - out of the way." She pulled at his jacket sleeve, but the big soldier showed no signs of having heard her. She tried again. "Nikolai, Oleg needs to check Rivka over, and he can't do it if you're in the way, now can he? So, come and sit down while I make you a mug of tea."

"Niko … Niko love … let Oleg do his job and you go with Anna. I'll be all right for a few minutes, I promise." Rivka squeezed his hand. "But don't be long … I need you." She tried to smile as another contraction hit her, stronger this time, more intense.

Nikolai was in a quandary. He had promised he would be with Rivka every moment until their child was born, but he knew Oleg had to give her a thorough examination, and although Rivka wasn't particularly shy, he knew instinctively that she would be a little more relaxed if he wasn't present as Oleg poked and probed.

"Are you sure?" Seeing Rivka nod despite her pain, he let go of her hand and allowed Anna to tug him away from the bed and seat him at the table. His eyes never left the bed as Oleg drew the curtains and got on with the job of determining how far into labour Rivka was. Anna found a mop and bucket and within seconds had mopped up the small puddle of fluid. Having done that, she put the kettle on to boil and watched Nikolai fretting and fidgeting at the table, the muscles jumping along the side of his jaw. A mug of tea was shoved into his hand at one point, but he was hardly aware of it until Anna poked him none-too-gently in the shoulder.

"Drink, Nikolai! Rivka will be just fine, so stop worrying!" Anna sat down beside him and gripped his long fingers. "Women have babies every day, you know, and Oleg knows what he's doing. I have a little obstetric training as well, so she couldn't be in better hands."

Nikolai looked at her. How could this sweet little thing know much about having babies?? She was barely out of diapers herself, and as for Oleg … when was the last time he delivered a baby?? All the young doctor had done for the past two years was dig bullets and shrapnel out of bodies, and bury the ones he couldn't cure - it wasn't exactly reassuring! He heard Oleg's soft 'hems' coming from behind the curtains, and a low moan of pain from Rivka. Her moan was accompanied by indistinct words of sympathy from Oleg Chernyenko, and it took all of Nikolai's self control to stop himself charging through the curtains and gathering Rivka into his arms. He just couldn't bear knowing she was in pain and he couldn't help her!!

He was just on the point of hoisting himself to his feet and going to her when Oleg pulled back the curtains and grinned.

"Well, things are going very nicely indeed, Nikolai! Better than I expected, actually! If it goes according to plan, barring complications the baby should arrive sometime in the next few hours."

Nikolai looked at Rivka, now dressed in her old night-gown, the one she had worn when they first met, and saw how much calmer she was. But then a thought struck him, a thought that made his chest hurt with fear.

"Complications?? What complications??" He hurried to the bed and sat beside Rivka, once more cradling her hand in his. "You said - "

Oleg held up a hand to stop any further argument.

"Calm down, man! Having a baby does have its dangers, I can't say it doesn't - but Rivka's been very fit and well all through her pregnancy, Nikolai, and she's coping with the labour so far, so stop panicking, will you? You'll just upset Rivka … or hadn't you thought of that?" Oleg's eyebrow hitched quizzically.

Nikolai swallowed his fear for Rivka as he looked into her huge brown eyes … and was lost in the love that shone from their velvet depths. She smiled at him shakily, then both of their attentions were taken by another contraction, this one squeezing a whimper of pain from Rivka as she gripped Nikolai's hand with a grasp that drove the feeling from every finger. He vaguely wondered if he would ever be able to fire a rifle again if she continued clutching his hand like that all the way through her labour.

The contraction seemed to go on forever, but it finally subsided and Rivka wearily collapsed back on the pillows, panting slightly.

"They … they're getting stronger … a lot stronger …"

Nikolai was disturbed by Anna bringing a bowl of hot water and a flannel and placing them on the bedside table.

"Here, Nikolai … give her face a wipe, she'll feel better. I'm going to give Oleg some tea and let him sit down for a little while." Her grey eyes shone as she looked over at the tired young medic. "He's had a rough day." Her voice was soft with concern, and Nikolai felt a rush of guilt sweep through him.

"Oleg …"

Oleg Chernyenko held up a hand.

"It's all right, Nikolai - you're worried, I know, and I'll probably feel the same in a few months' time." He grinned at Anna, who blushed. "Listen, my friend, Rivka's doing really well. She's dilating nicely, the baby's heartbeat is strong and regular, and the labour is happening nice and quickly. With luck we can be all in bed by midnight. You'll be positively blasé when you two have your next one, I have no doubt."

Next one? Next one?? Nikolai was on the point of explaining to Oleg that never, ever, would he put Rivka in this situation again, that never again would she have to undergo such pain, when a contraction drove the breath from Rivka as she lay propped up on pillows.

"Ohhh!! Oh dammit, that hurts …" She squeezed Nikolai's hand until it was bloodless and screwed her eyes tight against the pain. "Next … next one?? Don't … ohhhh! Don't you ever … take your pants off anywhere … ahhh! … anywhere near me, ever - " A hefty groan escaped her as she was wrenched forward by the contraction, a shaky Nikolai supporting her, "… ever again, Nikolai Koulikov! Goddammit!!!"

Nikolai had to heartily agree with her.

As the next two hours passed by, the contractions became ever stronger and more acute, and the time between each one lessened. Nikolai took off his jacket and rolled up his sleeves, and never moved from Rivka's side. He mopped her brow and slid onto the bed when the contractions came, holding Rivka's straining body in his arms and helping her ride through the pain.

For her part, Rivka swore. She swore heartily and with great skill, mostly in Yiddish but sometimes not, so that Oleg could understand what form of abuse she was throwing at him. But mostly Nikolai bore the brunt of her ire. She cast aspersions on his manhood, his intelligence and his mental balance. She told him in no uncertain terms that he would never be allowed near her ever again, and that he would be sleeping in the bomb shelters until at least the end of the war. And when each contraction eased and Rivka collapsed back into Nikolai's arms she would whisper her apologies and tell him she loved him, but she had no idea having a baby hurt so much. Nikolai just grinned, kissed her damp forehead and let her snuggle into his chest.

Each examination brought a bright smile from Oleg, and finally he nodded in satisfaction.

"Right, Rivka … we'll be feeling the urge to push soon, I should think. Baby's head is engaged, we appear to be fully dilated and it shouldn't be long now until we start the final phase."

Rivka scowled at him.

"We?? WE?? Who's having this damn baby?? OW!"

Nikolai was positive that if she could have reached, Rivka would have wrapped a skillet around Oleg Chernyenko's head.

Anna busied herself making up the small bed in the crib and lifted down Rivka's weighing measures, a small towel lying in the bowl ready to receive the baby. Then she readied the hot water and put some towels in the warming oven.

For the next forty-five minutes the contractions increased dramatically, and Rivka became quieter, grimmer, as she began to concentrate on what was happening to her body. Nikolai sat with her in his arms as she strained forward with each spasm of muscle-wracking pain, her head resting on his shoulder, hair nothing but damp, sweat-drenched tendrils. She was becoming exhausted, and he looked at Oleg in despair.

"She can't go on for much longer, man! Look at her! She's worn out! And the pain ... can't you give her something for the pain - "

Oleg shook his head.

"Not a thing, Nikolai. Not now. But women have been having babies for centuries without any pain relief so - "

Both men were interrupted by Rivka's cry as the latest wave of pain wrenched through her, and this time Nikolai saw her knees drawing up, the grasp of her hand on his making him grimace with agony.

"Oleg ... I want ... want to push ..." Rivka's words came in soft pants of pain. "I can't stop it ..."

"So don't!" Oleg was brisk now, glad to be doing something as he lifted the blanket and checked Rivka's progress. After a moment he turned to his wife. "Anna, looks like it won't be long now. Are the instruments ready?" Anna nodded, indicating the small row of gleaming steel forceps and clamps she had laid out on a clean towel. "Good. When I tell you, come and take the baby and we'll get the cord cut, all right?"

Anna smiled up at him then flashed a white grin at Nikolai. Leaning forward and patting Rivka's sweat-drenched hand, she spoke softly to her best friend.

"It'll be over soon, Rivka ... just hang on a little while longer, and do as Oleg says, and you'll be fine. Then you can hold your baby and get some rest, all right?"

Rivka was wracked with pain, but Anna's words soothed her and she gave the girl a tight smile. But seconds later she was overwhelmed with the urge to push, and she could feel a slight trickle of fluid as the baby began making its way into the world.

For the next twenty minutes Nikolai Koulikov sat propped on the bed, Rivka in his arms, holding her through the body-rending spasms that shook her. He could feel her shivering as though she was cold, and in the moments between pushing she lay in his gentle grasp trying to save her meagre reserves of strength. He whispered words of encouragement and kissed her brow, and she took comfort in his love for her.

Oleg 'hemmed' and muttered, and his face was a mask of concentration as he monitored the progress of this much-wanted child into a world still riven by war and death and wanton destruction.

"Well, here it comes ... I can see the baby's head, Rivka. You're doing really well, my girl ... that's it ... easy now ..."

Nikolai couldn't see anything because the blanket was in the way, but he couldn't contain the sudden burst of excitement that surged through him. The baby would soon be here, and Rivka could relax. Hell, he could relax! He couldn't bear Rivka being in so much pain.

"Just a little longer my lady Rivka ... our baby's almost here ..." And he kissed her as she lay against him, and Rivka took heart at his words of love. Another spasm shook her and Oleg grunted in satisfaction.

"Here's the head ... now Rivka, just hold on a second ..."

All Rivka wanted to do was push. She had to push to get rid of the blinding pain in her body, and come hell or high water she had no intention of stopping. She felt as though she was trying to push a cannonball through the eye of a needle, and it was stuck.

"Hold on?? Hold on??? Go schtup yourself, Oleg Chernyenko - " Her words were cut off as her body shuddered.

"What the hell's going on?" Nikolai began to panic.

Oleg didn't answer for a moment as Rivka felt his hands trying to ease the terrible pain and she cried out, but then there was a slick shift in the pressure and she felt a soft, slithering sensation as Oleg gave a small hiss of satisfaction. Another spasm came almost immediately and this one was easier, and she grasped Nikolai's poor, battered hand for the last time as the final push brought the feel of a wet, limp body between her thighs.

"Well now!" Oleg grinned as Anna handed him the clamps and a pair of scissors, and for a second or two everything was quiet ... until the angry wail of a newborn child filled the ancient cellar.

Rivka had collapsed exhausted in Nikolai's arms, but as she heard the cry her head raised, tired and sore as she was. She felt Nikolai's arms tighten convulsively around her and she looked up into his dear face. She would never forget as long as she lived the look of pure joy on his gaunt features.

As Anna wrapped the child in a blanket, Oleg grinned in delight.

"Your son has broad shoulders, Nikolai! I had to turn him a little, but once he was shifted a centimetre or two he just slipped out. Now, Rivka, let's get you all cleaned up ... I just have to deliver the afterbirth ..."

But Oleg's words faded away as Rivka held out her arms and Anna laid a small, noisy bundle, wet and wrinkled and still smeared with blood and mucus into the crook of her arm.

Rivka looked down at her son and fell hopelessly and completely in love. The pain and exhaustion slipped away as she studied the cap of dark hair and screwed up eyes, and the boy yelled his anger at being pushed into a noisy, chilly world from the safe haven of his mother's womb.

"My God ... look at him Niko ... he's perfect ... just perfect ..."

"A son ... we have a son, Rivka ..." Nikolai Koulikov peered over his wife's shoulder at the little scrap of humanity in her arms, and felt tears run down his cheek. All of the pain and heartache of his forty-three years disappeared in that one moment, as he looked into the face of his son. He kissed Rivka's forehead and she turned a face full of wonder to him, kissing him deeply in return.

"Nikolai ..."

He looked up to see Anna smiling at him.

"Nikolai, come and sit down for a moment and let Rivka get washed and tidied up. While we're at it, you and I will weigh this young man, shall we?"

He looked at her doubtfully for a moment, then Rivka touched his hand.

"It's all right love ..." She smiled up at him as she reluctantly handed the baby to a delighted Anna Chernyenka, who held him tight and crooned to the child as she laid him on the scales. Nikolai eased himself from behind Rivka and let her relax into the pillows, and followed Anna as Oleg pulled the curtains to allow Rivka to clean up in privacy.

"Hmm! Not bad for a first child - three and a half kilos, Nikolai!" Anna checked hands and feet and the baby's reactions, and was finally satisfied that all was well with the boy. She looked up at Nikolai, now standing beside her, mesmerised at the sight of his son kicking and yelling in the restrictive blanket. "Noisy little blighter , isn't he? Just like his father, I'll warrant! Now then, little man, let's get you all clean and wrapped up, shall we, and then you can get acquainted with your Papa …" She gave the child a wash, put him in a diaper and tiny gown, then tucked the blanket around the infant and lifted him gently. Nikolai was duly shooed over to his big chair, and after he had gratefully collapsed into its comfortable confines, Anna leaned down and showed him how to hold his new son in the crook of his left arm.

Never in his life had Nikolai felt so nervous. He felt the small, sinuous body wriggling against the constrictions of the blanket, and he used a big-knuckled finger to gently pull back the edge from his son's face. To his utter astonishment the baby's hand suddenly jerked free of the blanket and caught Nikolai's thumb in a firm grip, and the boy quieted, his dark blue eyes blinking in the winking light of the lamps.

With that grasp, the child caught not only Nikolai's thumb, but also his heart. He was a father. He, Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Koulikov, the bastard son of an illiterate farm girl and who had always thought he would never amount to anything, had a son - a live, healthy, lusty boy with lungs on him like a lion and a grip like a vice. A wide, toothy, silly smile spread over his long face, and he leaned down to kiss the soft cap of wispy dark curls on the boy's head, and he looked up to see Anna's beautiful grey eyes smile right back, unshed tears in their depths.

"He's beautiful, Nikolai. Just beautiful." Anna stroked the back of a tiny hand where it clutched his father's thumb. "Does he have a name yet?"

Nikolai looked over to where Oleg was pulling back the curtain. Rivka lay warm and cosy in a clean gown, and she had washed her face and brushed her hair. She looked tired, but triumphant. She heard Anna's question and saw the questioning look on Nikolai's face. She nodded, smiling.

Nikolai took a deep breath.

"My son's name is Vassili Nikolayvich Koulikov." He smiled softly. "Vasha. His name is Vasha."

Rivka saw the pride shine from him, and rejoiced. She saw the tenderness in his touch and the love in his face, and her heart leapt at the fierce joy in his heart. For long minutes she lay while Anna bustled about making tea and Oleg sat down at the table and relaxed, but her thoughts were only of Nikolai as she watched him sit holding his newborn son, and saw him turn from a soldier into a father.

Oleg sipped a mug of hot tea and sprawled back in his chair, a satisfied grin on his face.

"Nikolai, I think, my friend, you need to spend some time with your wife and son. Therefore, I have decided that as your doctor, you have a mild chest infection and you are hereby on sick leave for at least a week." He watched the big sniper for a moment, and sighed. "Nikolai!"

Nikolai looked up, distracted.

"What?" His gaze was soon drawn back to his son, now resting contentedly in his Papa's arms.

"You're ill." Oleg's voice was firm.

Nikolai blinked.

"I am?"

"Yes, indeed you are. Cough." Oleg said.

Nikolai tried a quiet cough. Oleg nodded in satisfaction.

"Just as I thought. A chest infection. I'll tell Danilov you're on sick leave, then I'll get the papers to register this young man, and you just sit back for a few days and enjoy your family. Doctor's orders. You understand?" Nikolai nodded numbly. Oleg rubbed his hands together and finished his tea. "Right then, we'll finish up here and leave you two to it. Rivka, I'll be by first thing in the morning, and if there are any problems Nikolai knows where to find me. Nikolai, Rivka's going to need a bit of help for a few days, but if she feels like getting up then let her - she's strong and healthy, and the exercise will do her good - but don't let her do too much, y'hear?"

"I hear you." Nikolai kept his voice low so he wouldn't disturb little Vasha. "Oleg …" he swallowed, the emotion finally getting to him. "Oleg, Anna, we can't thank you enough for … for everything …"

Oleg stood up and stretched, then kissed his Anna as she helped him into his coat.

"Nikolai, it was a pleasure. It's done both of us good, my friend, seeing this young fellow into the world. We've seen too much death …" His voice faded. He took a deep breath and leaned over to stroke Vasha's tiny cheek. The boy was dozing happily, and rosebud lips smacked quietly. "Well, my boy, you be good for your Mama and Papa, and I'll see you in the morning."

Nikolai gathered Vasha tighter to his chest and stood up very carefully. He made his way over to the bed where his beautiful Rivka waited, and laid the boy in her welcoming arms. He kissed her with so much love she felt tears spring to her eyes.

Leaving his wife and son for a moment, he saw Anna and Oleg out and at last they were alone.

Rivka snuggled down into the pillows and gathered the blankets about her, Vasha nestled tightly against her side. She felt Nikolai settle down beside her and looked up into tired but jubilant azure eyes, and Nikolai brushed back a tendril of her hair.

"Rivka Koulikova, you are a wonder, that's for sure! Look at him … see how small he is … so perfect … I swear to God Rivka, he's so beautiful."

Rivka smiled, amused. She was very, very tired, and she had to admit she was extremely sore, but she knew that would soon pass. She slipped down into the big bed and curled onto her side, cupping Vasha's tiny face.

"Hmm. I bet he'll be hungry, soon, if he's anything like his Papa. He'll tell me, no doubt, when he's ready. Come to bed, my Niko and get some rest. Vasha can sleep between us tonight - don't worry, he'll be fine. I just don't want to put him in the crib just yet …"

Nikolai grinned and kissed his exhausted wife's face.

"Righto, Missus. Do you need anything? Tea? Soup?" He saw her shake her head and was in turn shaken to his soul once more as Rivka's eyes turned back to the child beside her. "All right then, let's try and get some sleep, shall we? You'll need it woman, I'm sure!"

He eased from the bed, undressed and crawled in beside her, his arm draped protectively over his wife and baby son. He could feel Vasha's tiny body nestled against his chest, and the child was soothed by the gentle beat of his great heart. Rivka lay quietly, watching the wonder on his face and lifted her hand to cup his cheek, and he smiled drowsily.

As the night drew in, Nikolai Koulikov held his wife and son to him and rejoiced that new life had come at last to this great, ruined city of Stalingrad.

**********************

In the dark hours, Nikolai awoke from a light sleep and turned to look at Rivka, now sitting propped once more on the big old pillows. In the crook of her arm lay their son, suckling lustily at her breast, and as she nursed him she sang softly, the words not much more than a murmur.

Shluf, mein faygele, *
Mach tzu dein eygele,
Ai-lu-lu-lu.
Shluf geshmak mein kind,
Shluf un zei gezund,
Ai-lu-lu-lu.
Shluf un cholem zees,
Fun der velt genees,
Ai-lu-lu-lu.
Kol z'man du bist yung,
Kenst-du shlofen gring,
Lachen fun als-ding,
Ai-lu-lu.

Her voice was low but sweet, pure and soothing in the dark, and Nikolai eased himself upwards to sit beside her. Without halting, her beautiful voice filled with love, Rivka shifted into the haven of his strong arms. Settling back against his chest Rivka felt the soft tug of Vasha's mouth at her nipple and saw Nikolai's hand settle on the child's downy head, stroking the soft curls. Her lullaby came to and end and Nikolai sighed in contentment.

"Niko?" Rivka's voice was drowsy.

"Mmm-hmm?"

"Are you happy?"

She heard a snort of amusement.

"Yes, woman, I'm happy. Are you?"

"Oh, yes, my love. Very happy."

"Good." Nikolai nuzzled her hair.

As his parents settled comfortably in the big bed, young Vassili Nikolayvich Koulikov, oblivious to the uproar he had caused on this momentous day, hiccuped and went happily to sleep.

****************
 *An old Yiddish child-naming song, 'Shluf Mayn Feygele'

Sleep my little bird,
Close your drowsy eyes,
Ei lu lu lu
Rest in peace my child,
Under starry skies,
Ei lu lu lu

I am always near,
So you need not fear,
Ei lu lu lu

Sleep and have sweet dreams,
As the bright moon beams,
Full of light and love,
Ei lu lu lu