A few days ago, while grocery shopping, a little girl climbed into my cart out of nowhere. She introduced herself as Lia and said she couldn’t find her mom. I waited, expecting someone to come for her, but after 20 minutes, no one appeared. Just as I was about to call the police, Lia pleaded, “Please, don’t take me back. I’m scared.” She wouldn’t explain further, but it was clear something was wrong.
WHILE SHOPPING, A LITTLE GIRL CLIMBED INTO MY CART AND SAID: “DON’T TAKE ME BACK. I’M SCARED”
Unsure of what to do, I called my sister, who suggested involving social services. They arrived and took Lia, but her fear stuck with me. Later, a detective friend revealed Lia had run away before, but she was always returned home since no issues were officially documented. Unable to shake the feeling something was seriously wrong, I decided to check her home myself.
The house looked normal, but it felt unsettling. When social workers left without Lia, I approached her mother, who dismissed my concerns. As she shut the door, I heard a muffled whimper. Alarmed, I called my detective friend, who arrived with backup. Lia was rescued from a dangerous situation and placed in foster care. Now, I’m determined to help her find the safety and love she deserves.