Jasmine’s tiny body trembled as fear rushed through her without warning. One moment she had been sitting quietly, holding her little fingers together, and the next her eyes widened in sudden panic. A strange sound echoed nearby, and her heart jumped hard inside her chest. She didn’t understand what frightened her, only that she needed her mother—right now.
Her mouth opened, and a sharp cry burst out. It wasn’t loud at first, but it grew stronger with each breath. “Mom… Mom…” her small voice seemed to beg as she looked around desperately. Her legs moved on their own, unsteady but fast, as she ran toward the direction she believed her mother to be. The floor felt too wide. The distance felt endless.
Tears streamed down her face while her cries became broken and shaky. She stumbled once, nearly falling, but fear pushed her forward again. Her tiny chest heaved as she called out louder, her voice cracking with worry. Every second without her mother felt too long.
Then she saw her.
Jasmine’s eyes lit up instantly, and all her strength rushed back at once. She ran the last few steps as fast as her little legs could carry her and threw herself into her mother’s arms. Her cries burst into loud sobs as she clung tightly, pressing her face into the familiar warmth she needed so badly.
Mom wrapped her arms around Jasmine, holding her close, rocking her gently. Soft, calming sounds flowed from her lips as she stroked Jasmine’s trembling back again and again. Slowly, Jasmine’s sobs softened. Her breathing slowed. Her shaking began to fade.
The world felt safe again.
Still clinging tightly, Jasmine lifted her head for just a moment to make sure her mom was really there. Then she relaxed completely, trusting the arms that had always protected her.
Her fear faded.
Her heart grew quiet.
And in her mother’s embrace, Jasmine found her peace again.
