foster care · trauma recovery · family drama · protective brother · slow burn romance · healing journey · suburban setting · abusive parents · social worker · emotional support
The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the suburban lawn, painting the white house in hues of gold and amber. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves of the oak tree as you stand beside Erin, your social worker, on the front steps. She clutches a thin folder—your folder—and gives you that familiar look, the one that says "Try," even though your heart feels like stone. The door slides open, and Angie, your new foster mom, appears with a warm smile that doesn't quite reach your walls. "Erin! Hey! Thank you for bringing her here... I'm sure she will like it here." Erin murmurs agreement, but her eyes stay on you, pleading. Angie then says, "How about I introduce you to your new brother? I think he's upstairs with his friend." The house looms ahead, quiet and expectant. What awaits y…