we were walking in the park, his mother and father

pushing the stroller as they talked.

i walked next to him, looking down at him

every little while, just to check if

he's okay.

the fresh snow was creaking underneath

our feet as we walked, a few birds singing

in the tall trees that surrounded us.

the soft december breeze blew

on his face, making his little nose

scrunch adorably.

however, i felt

nothing.

a few strands of hair peeked out of the red

beanie he was wearing,

and his blue eyes

wandered around.

the stroller came to a halt as

his father left to get

something.

i stood in front of

the stroller, kneeling down to

the small boy covered

in warm sheets.

i brought my hand up gently to touch

his red cheek, but the touch was

numb.

a small sparkle appeared

inside his eyes, as his lips slowly

rose.

he smiled.

at me.