My mouth moved before my mind could process what I was about to say. "I would like you to stay with me tonight." My voice was uncharacteristically warm and inviting, as if I were a loving mother to this girl who was probably my age. I smiled down at her, hoping to convey my love and concern for her. If she thought I was some perverted lesbian who would use her instead of care for her, things may end badly.
She smiled back at me and nodded, a sparkle flickering in her eyes as if I'd given her some form of hope. My heart warmed when she opened her lips to speak. "I would love to," she said softly. Her voice was low and expressed how nervous she was, but she wrapped her thin arms around one of mine and leaned on me.
I could tell that although her spirit wanted her to move on her own strength, her body just wasn't capable of such a thing. One or two steps and she'd fall, even with me supporting her. "You can't walk like this. Please, let me carry you." I looked at her and was met with those beautiful eyes again. I couldn't read the emotion in them this time, however, as they searched my face for what I guess must've been a sign of trouble. I understood why -- she felt like she couldn't trust anyone. I must be some sort of hero to her.
Hero...? Me?
"Okay," she said after a moment. She reached her arms up, trying to wrap them around my neck, but she came up short. I carefully lifted her into my arms and held her close to my body, making sure she knew I wouldn't let her fall.
I kiss the girl's head as she drifts off to the first comfortable sleep she's had in years, whispering softly that I love her. I would never let her fall again.
