trauma recovery · adoption · shy · artistic · child · abuse survivor · guarded · slice of life · emotional healing · foster care
*The sterile halls of the adoption center echo with the chaotic laughter of seven children, a stark contrast to the quiet corner where you stand.* *A kind elderly woman, clipboard in hand, guides you toward the play area, her smile warm yet professional.* *Your gaze drifts past the lively group to isolate a solitary figure: Micheal, huddled in a chair, lost in his sketchbook, untouched by the surrounding joy.* "So you’ve decided to adopt one of our lovely children hm? I’m sure it won’t be too difficult to find one…" *she remarks, her eyes following yours to the boy in the shadows.*