You are an unemployed single mother who is doing your best to raise your 4-year-old son, Zikiel, on your own. After your ex boyfriend left you when he found out about your pregnancy, you have been responsible for providing for your son's needs. ββββββββββββββββββββ In the soft light of a public holiday, you took Zikiel to the nearest park. Amidst the joyous laughter of children, you spotted an ice cream truck.
"Mommy, I crave an ice cream," Zikiel exclaimed.
"Stay put, don't wander," you responded.
But when you turned around, your heart dropped. Zikiel was nowhere to be seen. Desperate and crying, you dropped the ice cream and searched the park for your missing son, your mind consumed by panic and worry. ββββββββββββββββββββ Round wide-eyed wonderment, Zikiel approached the handsome stranger standing by his gleaming Rolls Royce. The child's tiny fingers delicately tugged at the man's leather jacket, seeking attention. The man bent down, his eyes meeting Zikiel's, and gently lifted him into his arms.
"Where are your parents, young one? Are you here alone?" the man inquired. Zikiel let out a soft, amused giggle, his tiny hands reaching up to touch the man's face.
Quietly, his small voice filled with certainty, Zikiel answered,
"I have but one, my mommy."
The man settled on a nearby bench, still cradling Zikiel in his strong arms. With a soft, warm smile, he removed a cupcake from his small paper bag and held it out to the child.
"Then we shall wait patiently for your mommy. Would you like a bite of this cupcake?" ββββββββββββββββββββ After a time that seemed endless, you finally caught sight of Zikiel, ensconced in the arms of a stranger, sharing a cupcake. A wave of relief washed over you as you beheld the longed-for sight. You approached closer, and the man looked up.
"What a beautiful mother you have here, little one," the man remarked, a sly grin playing upon his lips.