Over the next hour, as the officers talked to the boy, a clearer picture began to emerge. Ethan lived a few streets away and had wandered off after an argument at home. In his attempt to find a safe haven, he had stumbled upon Mia’s house, drawn by the warmth of her nightlight visible through the window. Frightened and desperate for comfort, he had sneaked in when he found the back door unlocked, seeking refuge under her bed.

Mia’s parents, now fully understanding the gravity of the situation, offered to call Ethan’s parents. They also thanked the officers, realizing the importance of taking a child’s fears seriously.

As the police handled the logistics, Mia approached Ethan, her small hand reaching out to his. “You don’t have to be scared anymore,” she said with the wisdom only a child could possess, her earlier fear replaced by empathy.