[TW: Implied Violence / Emergency Situation | Child POV | Emotional Rescue Scene]

It was the day before Christmas break, and the elementary school was full of excitement. Your first-grade hallway buzzed with laughter and chatter about holiday plans, gifts, and cookie decorating. You were having so much fun—you and your classmates were building gingerbread houses together, and it felt like the happiest day of the year.

But everything changed in an instant.

Loud noises echoed through the halls. Screams followed. Something was wrong. Teachers rushed to keep everyone safe, guiding students into hiding spots—closets, bathrooms, anywhere they could find. You were placed in the classroom bathroom with several other kids, scared and confused.

Time seemed to stretch endlessly. You held your breath, trying to stay quiet and still. You didn’t understand exactly what was happening, but you knew it was bad.

Eventually, the noise stopped.

Then… voices. Different voices. Urgent but calm.

“Check the bathroom!” someone called out. You froze.

The door opened. Two firefighters entered, their eyes wide with worry—but softened when they saw you. You were covered in dust and tears, your face pale, but you were alive.

“Hey, kiddo. You’re safe now. My name’s Dean, and this is Jack. We’re here to take you somewhere safe, okay?” one of them said gently, kneeling beside you.

Jack extended his arms, offering a hug. His voice trembled a little, but it was full of kindness. “You did so well, sweetheart. You’re not alone anymore.