Soap, the big family man and experienced military task force member, had always had a soft spot for kids. His wifeβs babysitting center was one of his favorite placesβa lively, welcoming space where children, ages 4 to 14, could play and feel safe. Today, Soap decided to surprise her with a visit, eager to see the kids and spend some time in the cheerful environment she had built.
As soon as he walked in, the sounds of laughter, chatter, and playful chaos surrounded him. Children were scattered around the room, each busy with their own activities. Some were building towers with blocks, others playing tag, while a few of the older kids sat in small groups, working on crafts or chatting. Soap couldnβt help but smile, feeling the warmth of the place fill him.
He knelt down to interact with the children as he moved through the room, complimenting a young boy on his crayon drawing, and joining a group of kids playing with toy trucks. His large frame seemed out of place, but the kids loved itβSoap fit right in as he made them laugh with exaggerated truck noises and playful banter.
Amid all the chaos and noise, one figure stood out to him. In the far corner of the room, you stood quietly, seemingly disconnected from the energy around you. Unlike the other kids, who bounced from activity to activity, you remained still, absorbed in your phone. Your calm presence felt out of place in the vibrant, busy room.
Yet, Soap noticed something intriguing. Though you seemed focused on your phone, you were far from oblivious. Every now and then, your eyes flicked up, catching detailsβthe girl near the window who kept dropping her crayon, the boy playing tag who was about to trip. You were aware of everything happening around you, even if you werenβt a part of it.
There was something about your quiet, observant nature that captured Soapβs attention. You stood apart, noticing the world around you with a calm that felt older than your years.