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“Before we go in, Phebe I just want to say how glad I’m that you could join me today. The children will be thrilled to have you here,” he says, dazzling smile that never fails to melt my insides. I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to seeing his beautiful smile. He looks genuinely happy that I’m here.
“Thank you, Jeffrey. I’m thrilled to be a part of this. It clearly means a lot to you,” I express.
“You’re right; I find it incredibly fulfilling to watch and assist these children in any way I can,” he says.
“That’s truly commendable. I mean, it’s still hard for me to believe seeing you with children, considering your firm beliefs against family, and kids… you know what I mean,” I remark, and he chuckles.
“I do. Anyways, enough about me. Let’s go in,” he says, and I nod.
We make our way through the corridors of the orphanage, passing by vibrant drawings and cheerful artwork adorning the walls. I have a feeling the artworks are Jeffrey’s creations. The air is filled with the delightful sounds of children’s laughter and chatter which warms my heart.
We enter the reception area, where I see an older woman with a radiant smile illuminating her face.
“Hello, Mrs. Donald,” Jeffrey greets the woman.
“Oh, dear Jeffrey,” she says. I watch as she crosses the desk and pulls him into a tight hug. It’s a sight to behold to watch them hug.
“I’m so happy you’re here again,” she says.
“You have no idea how happy I am. Anyways, meet Phebe. Phebe, meet Mrs. Donald. She runs the orphanage,” he says.
“Oh, nice meeting you, ma’am.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Phebe. It’s my delight for you to spend time with the kids,” she says.
“Thank you for allowing me to spend time with the kids,” I tell her with a genuine smile.
“Oh, there is nothing I wouldn’t do for Jeffrey. He is one of the best things that has happened to the kids. I can’t thank him enough for what he has done,” she says while beaming with a smile.
“Anyways, let me not take much of your time. The kids are in the activities room waiting for you.”
“Oh, thank you,” I express gratefully to her. Together, we walk down the corridor, our footsteps in sync, the air buzzing with a mixture of anticipation and compassion. The sound of children’s laughter and playful chatter grows louder, filling the orphanage with a vibrant energy.
As we step into the activity room, a group of children looks up, their eyes widening with curiosity and smiles forming on their faces. The playroom is spacious, filled with children of various ages and background. All of them divert their attention from their activities, fixating their anxious eyes on us. My heart swells with tenderness as I take in their radiant smiles and innocent enthusiasm. I glance at Jeffrey and it’s clear he was with them earlier, and there are questions in their head about me. I scan the room as Jeffrey says,
“Hi, champs, this is my new friend. Her name is Phebe.”
“Hi, Phebe!” The children chorus.
“Hi, champs, it’s a pleasure to meet all of you,” I greet them, and they respond with giggle.
“Anne, won’t you say hi?” Jeffrey says. I turn my head toward his direction, following his gaze to the corner of the room. My eyes meet a young girl whom Jeffrey referred to as Anne. She looks at me curiously, and I can’t help but stare. She seems a bit shy but has a twinkle of excitement in her eyes. I don’t know when my feet move, but I start approaching her with a gentle smile. I stop in front of her and lower myself to her eye level by squatting down.
“Hi, Anne. I’m Phebe. It’s so nice to meet you.”
“Hi, Phebe,” she says, her voice filled with shyness. I can’t help but smile at the cuteness overload.
“Well, Anne, I’ve heard there are so many fun things we can do together. What would you like to do first?”
Anne’s eyes light up, and all her inhibitions seems to vanish. I smile as she grabs my hand, leading me toward a table filled with art supplies.
“Let’s draw pictures, Phebe! I love to make colorful drawings,” she says softly.
“Sure, we can, but do you mind if the others join us? I want us all to have fun together,” I suggest, turning to the other kids. To my delight, I notice them beaming with smiles, eagerly awaiting an invitation.
“Okay, Phebe,” Anne agrees. Instantly, the other kids rush towards us. I briefly glance at Jeffrey, who leans against the wall watching us. I shrug, and he response with a smile. Returning my attention to the kids, we start drawing together, their laughter and creativity filling the room. Soon, Jeffrey joins in, engaging with other children and ensuring everyone feels included.
“I’m painting a rainbow. Look, it has all my favorite colors!” Anne exclaims.
