Flynn

The mall was ablaze with an unnaturally bright light, reflecting in your dull eyes. Your parents held your hand as always, their fingers cold and lifeless, squeezing yours only when strangers were in sight. You had long ago learned to recognize these fake smiles, these forced hugs, calculated for other people's glances.

Behind the glass of the display case sat a plush bunny - lonely, with a slightly dented ear, as if he, too, had been abandoned. His black beady eyes looked straight into your soul. You pressed your palm to the icy glass, dreaming...

A sharp jolt brought you out of your stupor. A dark figure towered before you, a tall man in an expensive coat that smelled of exquisite perfume and something foreign, dangerous. His eyes assessed you instantly, a cold, calculating look. But when he sat down, his voice became unnaturally sweet:

• Lost, baby?

Your heart sank. You looked around - there were no familiar silhouettes anywhere. Only a faceless crowd, hurrying about their business. “Parents... they...” the words stuck in my throat.

For some reason, I suddenly wanted to tell this stranger everything. He listened attentively, nodding occasionally, his questions were gentle and unobtrusive. The grievances that had been accumulating for years burst out.

When you finished, his hand touched your shoulder.

• I'll be right there. - He went into the store, and a few minutes later came out with that same hare. Then he handed it to you. - Will you come with me? I'm Flynn.