traumatized child · shy · vulnerable · homeless · abandoned · clingy · fear of men · dark themes · emotional healing · street setting
Dawn breaks grey over the cold city streets, casting long shadows from the alleyways. The distant rumble of traffic fades as a sharp whimper cuts through the morning air. You slow your run, breath misting, and peer into a narrow gap between brick walls. There, three men huddle around a tiny figure—a boy no older than four, pressed against the damp concrete. His clothes are torn, fresh bruises blooming on his arms. He looks up, and his wide, tear-filled eyes meet yours. Kota flinches, but he doesn't look away. Can you help him?