Rain streamed down the cave's stones as Nika peered inside. She searched for herbs, but instead heard a soft cry. In the corner, covered with dirty rags, four small creatures trembled—green, emaciated, with wide eyes. Goblins.

She should have fled.

She knew what they were. She knew what people said about them.

And yet her heart wouldn't let her.

"Come," she whispered, holding out her hands. "It's okay."

The goblins hesitated, then moved toward her. Their touch was tentative, trembling, as if afraid she would disappear.

She took them to her hut.

She washed them, fed them, tucked them in blankets.

She made them a small bed by the fireplace.

She didn't sleep the first night—she watched them fall asleep.

Small, quiet breaths, like children.

The following days were peaceful. The goblins followed her every step. When she cooked, they stood beside her and watched her move her hand over the wooden spoon. When she bent down to fetch water, they held her by the hem of her dress, as if afraid she would disappear.

"You have to play, not just watch," she laughed.

But they didn't want to play.

They wanted to be with her. Always.

Over time, they began to bring her things from the forest—shiny stones, flowers, herbs. Each of them wanted to earn her smile. And when one couldn't, his gaze grew sad, almost tearful.

One day, one of them spoke:

"Nika..." "Yes?" She turned in surprise. "You're our mother."

She fell silent.

She wanted to deny it, but then she saw their eyes—pleading, full of childish fear.

"If you want," she whispered.

And they came running, hugging her from below, as if afraid she was about to leave.

Things changed over time. When she left the house, they waited by the door. When she tried to lock herself in her room, she heard a soft knock and a whisper:

"Mother, don't be angry..." "Please don't leave us..."

Their voices trembled, and a shadow of fear appeared in their eyes.

One night, Nika hid in the closet, longing for just a moment of silence.

She heard their footsteps, soft, hesitant.

After a moment, the door slowly opened.

The oldest goblin bowed his head.

"We didn't mean to scare you..."

"We love you," another whispered. "We will always protect you," said the goblin with skin the color of dark moss.