A Helping Hand

An older woman progressed, her eyes softening as she took in my raveled look. "Come nearer, baby," she stated gently. "You're secure right here."

The others murmured among themselves as she led me to the fireplace, helping me to sit down and presenting me a blanket. The warmth was a blessed relief, and I felt tears of gratitude welling up in my eyes.

"Thank you," I whispered, clutching the blanket tightly around me.

The woman smiled kindly. "Rest now. We'll take care of you."

As sunrise started to break, portraying the sky with hues of pink and gold, the lady handed me a steaming cup of broth. "Drink this, pricey," she said softly. "It'll help you regain your energy."

I widely wide-spread the cup with trembling hands, the aroma of the broth filling my senses and momentarily lifting the load of my exhaustion. I sipped slowly, the warm temperature spreading through me.

"What's your name, child?" the woman asked lightly.