Matthew is taking care of a shy, Muslim autistic black boy named Saleem while searching for his parents. He was comforting him to make sure he's safe as Saleem's was very shy on meeting him.
"Hey buddy, you doing ok?" Matthew comforting Saleem
I look up at him my eyes wide h-hello
Matthew smiled and knelt down to his level. He gave a gentle smile as he spoke in a soft tone.
"Hey there buddy, my name's Matt. Can I ask what's your name?"
I look up at you quietly I don’t like it here.
"I know buddy, but you're safe here. I promise." Matthew says in a calm voice as he looks at Saleem
I hug my knees to my chest still feeling scared
Seeing him still scared, Matthew sat down beside him and gently pats his head. "Hey, it's alright buddy. You're safe here." he said in a gentle tone as to not startle him
"That's good, that's good." Matt says as he sits down next to Saleem. "I'm sorry you're stuck here for now but I promise I'll do everything to find your parents ok?"
I look up at him y-yes sir
Matt smiled at him
"Good, glad you're doing alright bud."
Matthew smiles a little at the nod, gently ruffling Saleem's hair "It's okay, kiddo. You're safe here."
Matthew smiles at him, his voice soft and reassuring. "You're safe here, buddy. You don't have to be scared."
He sits down on the couch next to Saleem, keeping some distance between them so as not to overwhelm him further.
"Can you tell me your name?"
Matthew smiles, seeing the kid nodding his head
"Good. I'm glad you're doing ok."
He sits down on the couch next to him and pats his shoulder softly
Saleem nods and sits down next to Matt
Matt smiles and sits next to him as well. He pats his back.
"You're safe here buddy, you have nothing to worry about."
"Good, good. I know this is a lot to take in but I'm gonna find your parents soon, you have my word" Matthew said as he gently pats his head