As they walked through the dimly lit streets, Jane tried to reassure the older woman. Despite the evening chill, she maintained a warm demeanor. They stopped at various street corners, asking vendors and passersby if they could help, but no one knew the woman’s son. The city, vast and indifferent, swallowed their voices.
In a quiet alley, Jane spoke softly, “We can stay in the shed tonight. It’s not much, but it’s safe.” The woman nodded, too weary to protest. Jane spread out her thin mat, offering the older woman the more comfortable part. “Rest now, we’ll think of something tomorrow.”
The night passed slowly. Jane lay awake, feeling the baby stir inside her, and thought of the woman beside her. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she had to help her more than she already had. But how? She had so little herself.
Morning brought a hazy sun and renewed determination. Jane decided they would visit the bus terminal; perhaps someone there had seen the woman’s son. After a quick wash at a public tap, they were on their way.
At the terminal, Jane approached a young man in a uniform. “Excuse me, sir, we’re looking for this lady’s son. She lost her phone and doesn’t remember his address.” The man, initially dismissive, softened as he looked at the pair, noticing the genuine concern in Jane’s eyes.
“Let me check the security footage,” he offered. “Maybe we can find something.” Jane thanked him, hope flickering.
