The Stranger by Ksenia Skrypnikova

This man had a hunched back that curved forward,

causing him to stoop noticeably. His thinning hair clung desperately to his scalp, and his deep-set eyes seemed to hold a perpetual air of weariness. His skin was weathered and marked by a network of lines and wrinkles, as if each crease told a story of hardship. The Stranger’s features were sharp, with a prominent, hooked nose that dominated his face. His mouth was thin-lipped and often turned downwards in a permanent scowl. His clothing mirrored his unkempt appearance, consisting of worn-out garments that hung loosely on his thin frame. His clothes, often stained and frayed, further added to the impression of neglect. 

But for unknown reasons that was something about his inner beauty, that nobody saw, until only one time he showed it himself. This rare moment happens when he goes to the Central Park to feed ducks by himself. The pure happiness that goes with his smile when he sees these little ducks. With each handful of bread crumbs that stranger scattered on the water's surface, a symphony of quacks filled the air. The ducks, sensing his kindness and genuine affection, swam eagerly towards him. The man’s eyes sparkled with delight as he watched their joyful dance, their playful antics bringing him immense joy. At that moment, the façade of weariness and neglect melted away, revealing a kind and gentle spirit.