Baby Anya

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 sob grew slightly louder. You cautiously approached. 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. She was completely soaked, her thin clothes clinging to her body, and she continued to shiver, letting out quiet sobs. She turned her attention to you and gently extended her small arms toward you.