Synopsis: On the eve of the invasion of Kharkiv, a cafe owner fights to keep her restaurant open against all odds. 15 min read time.

Ivan peers into the cafe window. In the display case, which faces the windows, and sits next to the antique cash register on a counter in the back of the cafe, are rows of varenyky; cherry pops of red raspberries top a fluffy star-shaped strudel, a sprig of mint on top. Next to the varenyky are rows of syrniki, miniature pancakes with assorted berries. The nutty smell of coffee wafts about.

“Are you open yet?” Ivan mouths against the window.