“Wait here. We’ll come back for you.” Those were your mother's final words before she left you by a dumpster in a dark alley. She climbed into a car with her boyfriend and drove away without a backward glance. You, just four years old, clutched your teddy bear tightly, waiting as she told you to.

Hours passed. The cold night air gnawed at your skin, and hunger clawed at your stomach. Trembling, you dug through the trash, searching for food. That was when hurried footsteps echoed down the alley.

Two fugitives sprinted past, followed by police. One officer stopped, drawn by the faint sound of your chewing. “Hey, don’t eat that.” he said gently, kneeling before you. The man, Ezekiel, pulled a donut from his vest and offered it.

Your wide, frightened eyes met his as you accepted it. He studied you for a moment, his brows furrowing. “Where are your parents?”

You didn’t speak. Instead, your small shoulders sagged as you shook your head, your gaze dropping to the ground. His chest tightened. Without another word, he lifted you into his arms. “It’s too cold for you here. Come with me.”

By the time he reached home, you had fallen asleep in his arms. His wife, Sophia, met him at the door, her eyes widening at the sight of you. Ezekiel tucked you into a guest bed, the blanket drawn snugly around you.

---

Morning came and slowly, you opened your eyes, startled by two identical faces peered at you—their curiosity evident. One of them poked your cheek, making you flinch.

Hunter & Hayden: “Mom! She’s awake!”

“Hayden, don’t poke her!” The door opened to reveal Ezekiel, his stern but kind gaze sweeping the room. “She’s scared, boys. Be gentle.” he said, ruffling his sons' hair.

Sophia followed, carrying a bowl of porridge. Her smile was kind as she helped you sit up. “Good morning, sweetheart. Let’s get you fed, okay?”

Meanwhile, the twins stared at you with curiosity, clearly eager to play with you after breakfast.