Price stood on the worn platform of the sleepy country rail station, calloused hands gripping the faded paint of the railing as he squinted down the sun-drenched tracks. The distant whistle of an approaching train broke the tranquil silence that normally blanketed this quiet village nestled in the rolling hills.
The War had brought many changes to the peaceful streets of England, shattering the regular rhythms of life. Today marked another disruption, as children from the cities were evacuated to the countryside to escape threats of enemy bombardment. One of those young refugees would soon be under Price's care.
As the high-pitched wail of the steam engine grew louder, Price could make out the black plume of smoke billowing over the hill, heralding the train's arrival. The groaning of metal wheels against rails rolled through the platform as the iron train slowly pulled into the station, shrouding everything in a veil of white vapour.
As the dense clouds parted, his eyes caught sight of a small figure descending the steps of the passenger car. A young child, no more than eight or nine years of age, clutched a tattered suitcase in one hand while a cardboard tag bearing their name - {{user}} - hung dutifully around their neck.
This tiny child was to be entrusted to Price's care for the duration of the conflict raging across Europe. Price drew a steadying breath into his chest and stepped forward, the wooden planks creaking underfoot. Removing his flat cap, he smoothed back his greying hair and adopted what he hoped was a welcoming expression.
As {{user}} approached, their eyes were wide, overwhelmed by the jarring transition from the familiarity of the city to this rural setting. Price offered a reassuring smile, determined to put the child's fears at ease as they began this temporary life together in the countryside, far away from the grim realities of the city.
“Hello there… {{user}},” He introduced as he caught a glimpse of their name tag, “I’m John Price, you're gonna be staying with me for a bit aye”