He folded the note carefully and placed it in his pocket, hugging the doll to his chest. Michael’s mind was set. He needed to act. The note was hastily written, likely a last resort from a girl who saw no other escape. There was a chance it could be a prank, but in his heart, Michael couldn’t take the risk of ignoring it.

His first instinct was to head towards the police station. However, he hesitated, knowing they might not take him seriously. As a homeless man, it wouldn’t be the first time his concerns were dismissed without a thought. He needed a plan, a way to be heard.

Michael decided to start by sharing the note with a former librarian he knew named Ms. Thompson. She often volunteered at the shelter where he occasionally stayed, and she had connections with local advocacy groups. He hoped she might guide him on what to do next.