The morning was quiet, but little Linda’s heart was full of hope. She sat on the cool floor, tiny hands resting on her knees, eyes fixed on the doorway where her mom usually appeared. Every small sound made her ears twitch. Footsteps? No. Just the wind. Linda shifted closer to the door, believing that if she waited patiently enough, her mom would come and scoop her into a warm, familiar hug.
Minutes passed slowly. Linda called out in a soft, trembling voice, a gentle cry filled with trust and longing. She remembered how her mom used to arrive without fail, how strong arms would lift her, how everything felt safe. Today felt different. The house felt bigger. The silence felt heavier. Linda hugged herself, rocking slightly, trying to comfort the emptiness growing inside her chest.
She stood up and walked a few steps, then stopped. Her eyes searched every corner, hoping to catch a glimpse of her mom’s face. But there was nothing—only shadows and waiting. Linda’s shoulders drooped. Her bright eyes lost their sparkle, replaced by quiet confusion. She didn’t understand why love was late today.
Linda sat back down, curling her tail around her body. A small whimper escaped her lips. It wasn’t loud or dramatic—just a soft sound of disappointment. She wasn’t angry. She was sad. Sad that she had waited so long. Sad that no one answered her call. Sad that her tiny heart felt forgotten, even if only for a moment.
Still, Linda waited.
Every few seconds, she looked up again, refusing to give up hope. Because that’s what love teaches—wait, believe, and trust. Even alone, Linda believed her mom would return. Tears gathered in her eyes, but she didn’t cry loudly. She was brave in her own small way, holding on to the memory of warmth and care.
When the moment finally came—when the door opened—Linda jumped slightly, her heart racing. Whether her mom was truly there or not, one thing was clear: Linda’s waiting showed pure love. A love so innocent and deep that it touched everyone who saw her sitting there, alone, disappointed, but still hoping.