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.
While they waited, the old woman shared stories of her son. “He was always brilliant,” she said with pride. “Left the village to build a better life. I miss him every day.” Her eyes grew moist again, but there was a sparkle of hope.
An hour later, the young man returned with news. “I found something. A man matching your son’s description was seen boarding a bus to the city center yesterday morning. We can try contacting the main office there.”
With renewed energy, Jane and the woman set off, guided by directions given by the helpful young man. The city center was bustling, but Jane was undeterred. Her determination was infectious, lifting the older woman’s spirits.
At the main bus office, they received a breakthrough. The manager, a kindly woman, recognized the son’s name. “He’s a regular on the morning route. I know where he works! Let me call his office.”
Minutes later, the old woman’s phone was ringing. It was her son. “Mom! Where are you? I’ve been worried sick!” His voice was a mixture of relief and concern.
Jane and the woman sat on a bench, waiting for him to arrive. The wait was short, and soon a sleek car pulled up. A well-dressed man, eyes wide with relief, hurried over. “Mom!” he exclaimed, embracing her tightly.
Tears flowed freely as the woman introduced Jane. “This brave young lady took care of me. I don’t know what I would have done without her.”
The man turned to Jane, his gratitude evident. “Thank you so much.” He paused, noticing her condition and the worn wheelbarrow. “Let me help you in return. Anything you need.”
Jane hesitated but finally spoke, “I just need a job, something to provide for my baby.”
The man smiled warmly. “Consider it done. Your kindness won’t be forgotten.” In that moment, the city didn’t seem so vast or indifferent. It was filled with connection, with hope found in unexpected places.
