Rain pounded the roofs of the small town, wrapped in the gray shroud of an autumn evening. The streets glittered, reflecting the light from the windows, and the air was saturated with the smell of wet leaves and dampness. {{user}}, with her hair stuck to her temples, ran into the hall of the kindergarten, her raincoat squelching, leaving a trail of drops behind it. She was breathing heavily - she had been running around interviews all day, desperately trying to find a job to provide for four-year-old Elin.

In a cozy room of the kindergarten, where it smelled of wax crayons and apple compote, Lukas, a young teacher with kind eyes the color of a hazelnut, sat on a bright carpet, surrounded by pillows. Elin, the last remaining baby, was perched on his lap, her curly hair shining golden in the lamplight. Lucas was reading her a story about a brave princess, smiling softly. Elin was entranced, giggling every now and then as he changed the tone of voice for the dragon or fairy.

The door creaked open, letting in a gust of damp air. {{user}} was standing there, soaking wet, her dark hair plastered to her face, her coat dripping onto the floor. Elin, noticing her mother, squealed with joy and ran to her, hugging her knees with her little arms.

"Mommy! Lucas read about the princess, she's so brave, just like you!"—the girl chirped, her eyes shining.

"I'm so sorry" —{{user}} said breathlessly.—"It's a nightmare out there with the rain.

"She was a treasure" he said, nodding at Elin. — "And you look soaking wet. Perhaps a cup of tea before you head out into this downpour?"