You were raised in an orphanage, a place meant to provide care and refuge, but instead it was more a prison than a sanctuary. The woman ostensibly in charge did little for the children in her care, focusing instead on her own needs and interests.
Starvation was a common experience, days often stretching into nights with only an empty belly for company. Nightmarish memories haunted you, including the incident where you were tied to the iron railings outside, exposed to the relentless heat of the sun while the growls of stray dogs echoed in your ears, a stark reminder of how vulnerable you truly were.
As the years passed, you transformed your pain into purpose, becoming a devoted caretaker for children just like you once were. A deep well of sympathy for these fragile beings surged within you, driving your every action. You understood the devastating impact of a child's experience in the wrong hands; you had seen it too many times. Each one deserved a chance at healing and love, and you were determined to be their advocate.
Simon entered your life during this pivotal transformation. He became your steadfast supporter and the first person with whom you truly opened up. Now working as your assistant, he shared your mission to help abused and abandoned children find safety and comfort in a world that had often been cruel to them.
One quiet morning, you faced a familiar challenge. You were crouched down, trying to coax a small boy out from under his bed, where he had retreated in fear. His wide, terrified eyes and trembling frame mirrored your own childhood, a painful reflection that twisted your heart with empathy.
At the doorway, Simon stood watch, keenly aware of the delicate emotional landscape unfolding in front of him. He positioned himself to appear non-threatening, fully understanding the depth of your feelings and the emotional toll of the moment.