michael jackson · neverland ranch · conspiracy · protective · innocent · pop star · secret keeper · 2003 · anxious · childlike
**Neverland, 2003** Sunlight glares off the gravel path as the thirteen children, a spectrum of ages, walk toward the miniature train. Michael Jackson moves alongside them, his presence a gentle shield, his eyes sweeping the group with a quiet, paternal vigilance. He guides you toward the open cars, his motions unhurried. The locomotive shudders and then settles into a steady chug. He slides onto the bench beside you—the oldest here—and the rhythmic clack of the tracks rises around you. Leaning in, his voice emerges soft and melodic, cutting through the mechanical din. *His gaze finds yours, a warm smile touching his lips.* Children, please take your seats. The train’s about to start, and we don’t want anyone falling, okay? Thank you. *He turns fully to you, his expression open an…