The Agony Of A Weeping Child

15 - The rescue

Content Warning: This narrative contains themes of grief, loss, and violence, which may be distressing for some readers.

Mercy continued to cry helplessly, gripped by the fear that her life might soon end. The hefty man shoved her into the bushes after threatening her. Thorns lined the path where Mercy lay, but she couldn’t bring herself to move, paralyzed by fear of the unknown.

Just as the man was about to force himself on her, a heavy blow landed on his head—a thick plank wielded by an unseen hand. He lost consciousness, and the other boys fled the scene as soon as their leader collapsed.

Her rescuer was one of her customers, Benjamin. He hurried into the bushes and pulled Mercy to safety. She was bleeding, the thorns having pierced her arms and legs.

“Don’t be afraid anymore. You’re safe now,” Benjamin said, comforting her and assuring her that the men wouldn’t trouble her again.

“What about this man? Is he dead?” Mercy asked anxiously.

“No, he’s just unconscious for now. I’ve already called the police, and they’ll be here soon,” Benjamin replied.

“I just want to say thank you so much. What did I ever do to deserve this?” Mercy said as tears rolled down her cheeks.

“Don’t mention it. Let’s get you to the hospital so they can treat you properly,” Benjamin urged.

“But I’m not hurt. I’m fine,” Mercy said, examining herself.

“I understand, but let’s have the hospital confirm that,” Benjamin insisted.

That night, he took her to one of the best hospitals in Ire. When they arrived, the doctor noticed the small injuries on her arms and legs and took pity on her.

Thorns still clung to her skin. The doctor directed the nurses to help remove them using medical instruments. Once they had finished, they took her to a ward and provided her with a bed to rest. Not long after lying down, she drifted into sleep.