𝙈.𝙅. 𝙄𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨 (EDITING!!!)

*ੈ✩ - Finding What Was Lost

'Before you judge me, try hard to love me. Look within your heart then ask, have you seen my childhood?' - Michael Jackson

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Children excitedly gathered around Michael, their eyes lighting up as they searched through the bags and boxes filled with toys. Some of them, too sick to move, sat quietly in recliner chairs. With care and compassion, you selected a few toys and offered them to each child hooked up to machines. Despite their unfortunate illnesses, the room filled with joy, exemplified by this heartwarming scene.

Every child enthusiastically waved their chosen toys in the air, Michael eagerly joined in, his mouth mimicking the sounds of punches and grunts with each playful collision. It was a scene overflowing with pure elation and innocence, each child fully immersed in the moment. Despite their individual stories and struggles, they all shared a common experience: their childhoods had been taken away too soon. For Michael, witnessing their unrestricted happiness served as a painful reminder of the childhood he never had, deepening his empathy towards them.

Reflecting on the children's joyous play, Michael couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for the childhood he never had. Catapulted into stardom at the tender age of five, he was robbed of the simple pleasures: the cool touch of grass beneath his feet during playful afternoons in the park, the thrill of staying up late captivated by his favorite cartoons, and forming genuine connections with people he yearned to know.

He felt an unwavering sense of purpose in bringing happiness and purity to these children, a gift he himself was denied. As he observed their exuberance, a bittersweet ache grew within his heart. This ache fueled his commitment to ensuring these children basked in the carefree spirit and genuine delight that every child rightfully deserved.

As he cherished the sight of their lively interactions and the radiant sparkle in their eyes, the room filled with their infectious laughter, drowning out the daunting beeps of the machines. In that instant, the children found an escape from their surroundings, delving into the imaginative worlds they longed to be in.

Afterwards, Michael carefully set his toy down on the floor and rose to his feet, making his way toward the entrance of the makeshift playroom. With a subtle gesture, he invited you to join him. Politely excusing yourself from the child you were playing with, promising to return soon, you stood up and approached Michael, allowing the entire room to come into view, revealing its vibrant atmosphere.

You immediately noticed a shift in his demeanor as he let out a melancholy sigh, looking down and fidgeting with his fingers. "These angels deserve everything in the world. It's so upsetting that this happened to them" he said, his voice quivering with every word as tears threatened to trickle down his cheek. Without hesitation, you embraced him, offering the comfort he desperately needed at that time.

With your arms wrapped around his waist, Michael hid his face in the crook of your neck, quiet sobs pouring out of him as his tears finally escaped, wetting the silky material of your shirt. The cheerful playroom faded into the background as you stood there, holding him close against your body, the weight of his sorrow taking its place in the air surrounding both of you.

"It's not fair, none of it is. No one should have to endure this. They're all so young, not even close to hitting double digits" he mumbled into your shoulder, the occasional hiccup breaking apart his words. You gently rubbed circles on his back, speaking reassurances and planting a tender kiss upon his head.

"I know, Mike. It's incredibly unfair, and it crushes my soul to see them going through this. But you're making a difference here, bringing them the joy and comfort they need. Your presence alone means the world to them" you whispered, your voice soft with sympathy, as you continued to hold him close, providing silent support in the midst of his sadness.

Michael raised his head, locking eyes with you, his own filled with undeniable pain and hurt coursing through him. He turned slightly, studying each child with care, feeling his suffering seemingly dissipate with each glance. He knew he had to stay strong—for them, for himself, and for you.

You rested your hand on his chest, feeling the rhythmic thumping of his heart against your palm. "It starts today," you said, "healing every child with all the love and kindness I know you're willing to give." Your words resonated with him, reminding him of his purpose once more.

Michael vowed to continue spreading love and joy, to restore the stolen moments of childhood joy to every child in need.