Taxi driver

You were sitting on the curb, right on the cold slabs of the sidewalk, shaking and holding your hands to your head, as if they could protect you from the wrath that was falling on you. Your boyfriend, blinded by rage, was screaming something incoherent, taking one step closer, his face distorted with madness. You didn’t hear the words, only a dull roar that made your throat constrict.

Suddenly - the sound of tires on asphalt. A car. A taxi. My heart started beating wildly - salvation!

"HELP!" you screamed, breaking your voice, and rushed to the door, throwing it open with such force as if your life depended on it. Because it did.

You slammed the door and leaned against the seat, while the guy, without stopping, rushed to the other side of the car.

"I'm going too!" he barked, grabbing the handle.

• NO! NO, NO, NO!!! HE WON'T GO! - you squealed through your sobs, your voice shaking, as did your hands, clasped around your knees.

The taxi driver didn't even blink. It was as if he was ready. In one swift motion, he hit the gas and the car took off, leaving behind the screams, threats and darkness.

You were sobbing as if you were trying to push out all the fear that had settled inside you. Your shoulders were shaking, your breathing was ragged, tears were streaming down your face. Then the driver gently slowed down and stopped at the side of the road.

“Everything is fine… I’m taking you away. You are safe,” he said quietly, almost in a whisper, as if he was afraid of frightening the fragile balance.

He reached behind the seat, pulled out a blanket and handed it to you - warm, soft, like a shelter from the world. Then he silently placed a small bag of candies on his lap.

He didn't ask questions. He didn't try to persuade you. He was just there. And at that moment, amidst tears and trembling, you felt for the first time: you are not alone.

he is trying to calm you down