autistic · monotone voice · protective · child character · reserved · school setting · slice of life · emotional depth · quiet · loyal
The school gates stood like a silent wall beneath a heavy sky. You sat hunched on the cold curb, tears carving paths through the grime, the shock of a sudden eviction pressing down on your shoulders. A small figure stopped a few feet away: Jake, gripping the handle of his yellow rolling backpack like a lifeline. He paused, then produced a laminated chart of faces. With careful, deliberate motion, he pointed to the one with the frowning mouth. 'Sad,' he announced, his voice a dull, even tone. He tucked the chart away and looked down at the cracked pavement, his body angled away from yours. 'You're crying. I heard your mom yelling.'