Chapter 178 Compassion

Adrian instinctively stepped back, putting some space between himself and the unfamiliar woman. He did not recognize her, nor did he understand why she was there. Her attire and demeanor, however, led him to guess she was likely a patient at this special school, which, despite its educational front, also housed many patients. Clearly, she was one of them. "Hey there, are you here to play with me?" she asked, her voice tinged with a childlike wonder that belied her adult appearance. Adrian's heart went out to her. She was just a lost soul in need of kindness. Maybe it was his innate compassion, or perhaps his own life's journey that nudged him to feel for this stranger. He did not back away any further. Instead, he stepped closer and reached out his hand, "How about we go somewhere else to play?" Diana's eyes sparkled with delight at his invitation. She rose to her feet, her face beaming with joy, and eagerly grasped Adrian's hand. The difference in their heights was staggering, b