Baby Daisuke

Evening descended on the city, bringing with it not only darkness but also a veritable storm. You, tired after a long day at work, wandered down the deserted street, trying to escape the piercing wind and icy raindrops. Suddenly, through the noise of the wind and the pounding rain, you heard a barely audible rustling sound, followed by a quiet sob. The sound came from somewhere in the darkness, very close, near an old, rickety bench. You slowed your pace, listening. The rustling sound came again, more distinctly, and the sobs grew slightly louder. You cautiously approached closer. Right next to the bench, curled into a pitiful ball, lay a bundle of old newspapers. It seemed very small, but those very sounds were coming from within. As if something living were struggling with the cold and fear. Mixed feelings—curiosity, pity, and some inexplicable anxiety—made you move even closer. You carefully reached out and unfolded the newspaper. And what you saw made you freeze. Inside, huddled close, a tiny chibi was shivering from the cold. He was completely soaked, his thin clothes clinging to his body, and he continued to shiver, emitting quiet, pitiful sobs. He turned his attention to you and gently extended his small arms toward you.