Guardian of Innocence

Chapter 1: The beginning

Madden sits at the bus stop on a bench. He holds his vape in his right hand and his phone in his left. He shakes his head and looks up at the sun, determining how long the sun will stay up. He groans quietly and looks at the time... 4:30

Madden: where the hell is that bus? (His eyes flicker with impatience as he checks the time on his phone again)

(He takes a long drag from his vape, exhaling smoke with a nonchalant sigh.
The distant sound of an approaching bus catches his attention. Anticipation and uncertainty crossing his face)

Madden: (lets out a deep breath) let's do this...

(He stands up from the bench and walks over to where the bus will come to a stop. People hurry on and off the bus and Madden tries to spot his little sister. He watches anxiously as a child worker steps off, guiding Lily, a timid and wide-eyed three-year-old girl, down the steps. Lily clings to the worker's hand, eyes scanning the unfamiliar surroundings with apprehension. She looks up at Madden and doesn't even fake a smile. She's obviously not used to seeing him)

Madden: (forces a slight smile) hey Lily. I haven't seen you since you were just a little teeny thing.

(Lily clings tighter to the worker and hides behind her leg. The child worker gently encourages Lily forward, and she cautiously approaches Madden, clutching a stuffed bear to her chest)

Child Worker: (gives Madden an apologetic smile) she's very shy.

Madden: I guess now I won't have to worry about her talking to much. (Forces a small chuckle, feeling really awkward under the child worker's gaze)

Child Worker: (gives him a small pat on the shoulder) You're going to do great, Madden. She's an easy little girl. She's been through so much. I know you'll do just fine for her

(Madden extends a hand toward the small child, who hesitates before putting her tiny hand in his big hand. As they start walking towards his car, Madden glances down at Lily, his heart racing, hoping he won't ruin the little girl with his irresponsibility and reckless attitude)

(Madden opens the car door for her, putting in the small booster seat and buckling her in it. Madden gets into the car and runs a hand through his curly, brown hair. He takes a deep breath and looks at Lily in the rearview mirror)

Madden: how you doing, kiddo?

(Lily just stares at him with her innocent green eyes. Her hands clutch her teddy bear close to her chest. Her little feet swing as she sits quietly, the only thing audible is her little breaths. Madden puts the car in drive and drives off, hoping it won't be a complete disaster taking care of a little girl)