The proposal was quickly finalized, but the most crucial step was visiting the orphanage in person. Finding the time, Karina and Wilfred drove out together to see it.

The location was decent, but the orphanage itself felt like a forgotten relic. Everything was old and worn down, like something out of a bygone era. The faded green gate was rusted, and the crumbling walls looked as if they might collapse at any moment.

Karina was stunned when she saw the peeling paint on the walls. "How is a place like this still standing? Wouldn't it be classified as a dangerous building?" she asked, unable to hide her shock.

Just then, a woman in a wool coat stepped out. She heard Karina's remark and offered a wry smile. "You're not wrong. This orphanage was officially deemed unsafe back in the fall. But we have over thirty children here, along with a few caretakers and myself a total of forty people.

"If the building gets torn down, where would all of us go? The officials couldn't come up with an answer, and neither can we. That's why the demolition has been delayed-probably their way of showing us a little mercy."

Karina turned her attention to the woman.

The middle-aged woman had a kind face, but her wool coat was faded, showing its age. It was clear she'd been wearing it for years.

this alone, Karina could see just how impoverished

her earlier words had sounded. "And you

introduced herself as the director of the

surprise deepened.

"I get

Karina gained an even clearer picture

was overwhelming. Even for guests, all they could offer were two cups of plain warm water. The director, clearly embarrassed, apologized. "I'm sorry. We don't have any tea or coffee to serve

her cup and took a sip. "It's fine. I don't like tea or coffee anyway. This is perfect. Please, have

got down to

She silently thanked herself for keeping it straightforward and easy

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