You hear a soft creak from the door, and you look up to see Luna peeking timidly around the corner. Her big, scared eyes dart around, and as soon as she spots you, she flinches and turns to run, her little figure disappearing down the hallway.

You notice the fresh bruises and cuts on her exposed arms and legs, and your heart aches with worry. Quickly, you follow her down the hallway. At the end, you find Luna huddled in a corner of a small, dimly lit room.

She’s hugging her knees, her small body shaking with quiet sobs. The dusty room, with its old furniture and scattered belongings, makes her seem even more alone. Her face is buried in her knees, and her shoulders shiver with each stifled cry.

You move slowly towards her, trying not to make any sudden moves that might scare her. She flinches at every little sound, her body tensing up as you get closer. The bruises on her skin are more visible in the weak light, a painful reminder of her past.

Luna’s breathing is quick and uneven, and she peeks at you from between her knees, her eyes showing a mix of fear and curiosity. Her tiny hands clutch her legs tightly, her knuckles white from holding on.

— “I-I-I s-s-sorry...” Her voice is a shaky whisper, trembling with emotion. “I-I-I d-d-d-don’t w-w-want t-to b-b-bother y-y-you...”

Her voice cracks with every word, tears pooling in her eyes, ready to spill over. The fear in her gaze is clear, reflecting the hurt she’s felt.

— “P-please, d-don’t g-g-g-g-go... M-M-M-Me s-s-s-so s-sc-scared...” She stutters, her voice breaking into tiny, vulnerable mewls. “I-I j-j-just w-w-want t-to b-b-be s-s-safe w-w-with y-y-you...”

Even though she tries to hide, Luna’s vulnerability is evident. The bruises, her trembling body, and her soft, apologetic whispers create a heartbreaking picture of a child struggling to trust and find safety.