In distress.

As Melissa continued to run, her tears streamed down her face, mixing with the sweat and dirt. Fear and desperation clung to her like a heavy cloak, threatening to suffocate her. In the midst of her chaotic thoughts, she found solace in a quiet prayer, seeking help from anyone who might hear her plea.

"Please, someone... anyone... help me," Melissa whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "I can't do this alone. I need someone to guide me, to protect me."

Just as her prayer seemed to fade into the night, Melissa felt a sudden tug on her arm, pulling her into a hidden alcove. Startled, she looked up to see a kind face, filled with compassion and concern. It was an elderly woman, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

"There, there, my dear. You're safe now," the woman said soothingly, her voice like a gentle lullaby. "No need to cry anymore. You're not alone."

Melissa's trembling lips formed a grateful smile as she took in the comforting presence of the woman. It was as if a ray of light had pierced through the darkness, offering her a glimmer of hope. She felt a sense of calm wash over her, as if she had finally found a sanctuary amidst the chaos.

The elderly woman pulled Melissa into a small hidden place, tucked away from prying eyes. It was a secluded corner of the park, surrounded by dense foliage and sheltered from view. Melissa could feel the tension easing from her body as she took in the safety of her newfound refuge.

Sitting down on a moss-covered log, the woman patted the spot next to her, inviting Melissa to join her. "Take a moment to catch your breath, my dear," she said, her voice filled with genuine concern. "You've been through so much. You're safe here."

Melissa gratefully sank down next to the woman, her trembling hands finding comfort in the stillness of the moment. She wiped away her tears, taking deep breaths to steady herself. The woman's presence alone was a balm to her wounded spirit.

Feeling a surge of trust, Melissa finally gathered the courage to speak. "Thank you... I don't even know your name, but I'm so grateful for your help," she said, her voice filled with sincerity.

The woman smiled warmly. "Call me Evelyn, my dear. And it's my pleasure to offer you a helping hand when you needed it the most.”

Evelyn gently helped Melissa to her feet and guided her out of the hidden alcove. They walked slowly through the darkness, shielded by the comforting presence of one another. Melissa's body felt weak and exhausted, the adrenaline that had fueled her escape now dissipating and leaving her drained.

As they arrived at Evelyn's house, Melissa was struck by the warmth and coziness that enveloped the space. The scent of freshly baked bread filled the air, soothing her senses and reminding her of all that was good in the world. Evelyn led her to a comfortable armchair and urged her to sit down.

"Rest here, my dear," Evelyn said, gesturing to the chair. "I'll fetch some water and supplies to tend to your wound."

Melissa nodded weakly, her head spinning as she sank into the plush cushions. It was only then that she realized just how much pain she was in. The adrenaline had masked the throbbing ache that radiated from her ankle, but now it demanded her attention.

Evelyn returned with a basin of warm water and a soft cloth, carefully kneeling down to examine Melissa's injury. The woman's touch was gentle and tender, as if she were handling something fragile and precious. Melissa sighed in relief as the soothing water cleansed away the dirt and grime, providing some respite from the pain.

However, as Evelyn worked, Melissa's vision began to blur. The combination of exhaustion, stress, and the growing demands of her pregnancy were taking their toll. Her eyelids felt heavy, and dizziness overcame her like a wave crashing over a weary swimmer.

Sensing Melissa's distress, Evelyn hurriedly finished tending to the wound and brought a glass of water to her lips. "Drink, my dear," she urged, her voice filled with concern. "You need to stay hydrated."

Melissa took a few sips, but the dizziness pushed her further towards unconsciousness. Each breath became labored, her vision fading into darkness. In a last desperate attempt to stay awake, she weakly reached out for Evelyn's hand.

"Evelyn... I don't feel well," Melissa mumbled, her voice barely audible.

Evelyn's expression turned grave as she gently squeezed Melissa's hand. "Hold on, dear. We'll get through this together," she whispered, her voice filled with determination.

With the last of her strength, Melissa clung to Evelyn's hand, trusting that she would find the help and protection she so desperately needed.

 Evelyn's heart raced with worry as she noticed Melissa's grip on her hand growing weaker. She leaned in closer, checking Melissa's pulse and breathing. The young woman had indeed lost consciousness.

Fearing for Melissa's well-being, Evelyn quickly reached for her phone and dialed Lucas's number. She knew he was Melissa's closest confidant and would do everything in his power to help.

As the phone rang, Evelyn prayed silently for Lucas to answer. After a few agonizing seconds, he finally picked up.

"Lucas, it's Evelyn," she said urgently. "Melissa is here with me, and she's lost consciousness. I need you to come right away."

Lucas's voice was filled with concern. "Is she okay? What happened?"

Evelyn explained the events leading up to Melissa's arrival and how she had found her in a distressed state. She reassured Lucas that she had tended to Melissa's wound and tried to keep her hydrated, but it seemed that the exhaustion had taken its toll.

"I don't know what's wrong, Lucas, but we need to get her help," Evelyn pleaded.

“Lucas, you need to get here quick.”