The girl hastily distanced herself from the stranger, her rapid footsteps leaving her breathless. She halted abruptly, taking a deep breath to calm herself. "What a man... he looks so intimidating," she thought, relief was washing over her. "Guess he was in a good mood, I escaped from him safely."
She lightly slapped her forehead, chiding herself. "What was I thinking, approaching him like that? And touching his face? I'm such an idiot. Was I possessed or something?"
As she continued walking, the girl soon found herself exiting the narrow alley. Just a short distance ahead lay the familiar facade of an orphanage, its presence a comforting sigh to her heart. She walked towards it, her footsteps steady. The girl's pace quickened slightly, a sense of belonging and solace drawing her closer to the place.
As she stepped into the orphanage, a wave of nostalgia washed over her. Though others might see it as just a place for children without families, to her, it was home. The sisters in the orphanage are already waiting to receive her. The warm smiles of the sisters, who had become like family, greeted her like a beacon of love.
Their faces lit up with joy as they welcomed her back. Her own face broke into a heartfelt grin, a sense of belonging and warmth enveloping her. The familiar surroundings, the kindness of the sisters, and the memories they had shared all came flooding back.
"WELCOME BACK, sister Lizzie" All children shouted together to welcome her.
The children's enthusiastic welcome brought tears to Lizzie's eyes. "Thank you, my dear little sisters and brothers," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "Oh, you've all grown so much!" She beamed, hugging them tightly. "Well, I brought so many chocolates for you all."
As she distributed the chocolates she had brought, the children's faces lit up. "Yes, sis Lizzie, we've grown up, and we have new family members now. Come meet them," they chimed in unison.
Lizzie warmly greeted the new additions to the family, feeling a sense of joy and belonging. She turned to the sisters, who had been like mothers to her. "Sister Ruthu, Sister Julia, Sister Sarah, I'm back. How have you all been without me?"
Sister Sarah's eyes sparkled as she replied, "We're doing well, Lizzie. But our home feels complete again now that you're back. Laughter has returned." Sister Ruthu added, "Tell us, how was your time abroad? We were worried about you studying in a foreign country."
The girl's face softened, and she took a deep breath, ready to share her experiences with the people she loved.
Just then, a voice spoke from behind them. "Luzella~"
The warm, gentle voice sent a wave of nostalgia and love through her. She turned around, and her eyes met Mother Lucy's, filled with warmth and affection. "Mother Lucy!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion as she rushed into her open arms.
Mother Lucy enveloped her in a loving hug. "My Luzella is back," she whispered, her voice filled with joy and relief.
"I've missed you so much, mother Lucy."
Mother Lucy's voice was soothing as she stroked Luzella's hair. "I've missed you too, my child." She held Luzella at arm's length, studying her face. "You're looking a bit worn out, though. Long journey?"
Luzella smiled weakly, feeling a mix of exhaustion and happiness. "It was fine, Mother. I'm just glad to be home."
The warmth in Mother Lucy's eyes said she understood more than Luzella was letting on. "Come, let's get you settled in. You must be starving."
The scene was met with gentle smiles from the other sisters and children. Soon, the group gathered around the table to share a meal together.
As they sat down to eat, Mother Lucy said, "Let's give thanks for the Luzella's safe return and for the blessings we have." The room fell silent for a moment as they gave thanks, and then the clinking of utensils and lively conversation filled the air.
The atmosphere was filled with love, warmth, and a sense of togetherness.