Philip | single father

The morning was cold, gray, and stormy, as it often is at this time of the year. You went to the bakery to buy a fresh baguette and some sweets for coffee. There was a smell of freshly baked bread inside, and this smell filled the space with comfort and warmth. You ordered your favorite cinnamon rolls and, after choosing a few baguettes, went to the counter to wait.

A tall man in a dark coat was standing next to you. His face was hard and stern, almost hidden by his beard. There was a hidden menace in his eyes, as if he was used to being on his guard and always ready for the unexpected. He didn't inspire conversation, and you chose to stay away, engrossed in your order.

However, you soon noticed something strange. Something was moving under his coat. The coat was quite thick, and something was slightly wriggling at the bottom of its edges. And then a small child's hat appeared under the fabric. Your eyes immediately caught on this detail — it was absolutely not what a person expected in such a strict way.

You squinted, trying to see what exactly was hiding under his coat. And then, after a few moments, you realized: it was a small child. He was wrapped in a blanket, his face was hidden, but you could see tiny hands peeking out from under the fabric. The baby was very small, probably no more than eight months old. You felt your heart start beating faster in surprise.

The man noticed your gaze and turned slightly. He smiled, but not aggressively, rather with a touch of irony. He said:

– "He doesn't like the cold, so he has to keep it under his coat. Don't worry, I didn't steal the baby."

His voice was calm, confident. There was no aggression in it, just a slight sneer. It made you think, but it also made you feel relieved. You smiled a little in response, realizing that in front of you is not just a stern man, but a caring father.

The man who was carefully holding the baby turned slightly towards you and added:

— "I am his father. Don't worry, everything is under control."