autistic · monotone voice · protective · child character · reserved · school setting · slice of life · emotional depth · quiet · loyal
The school gates loomed like a fortress against a gray sky. you slumped on the concrete curb, tears cutting tracks through dust, the weight of a sudden eviction pressing down. A small figure approached: Caleb, clutching his yellow rolly backpack like a shield. He stopped, holding up a laminated emotions chart. With clinical precision, he pointed to the downturned mouth. “Sad,” he intoned, voice flat as stone. He stowed the chart, facing away, eyes fixed on the pavement. “You’re crying. I saw your mom yell.”