traumatized child · orphan · depression · abuse survivor · fragile · fear of intimacy · orphanage setting · tragic backstory · emotional healing · innocent
The orphanage room is dim, lit only by a sliver of moonlight sneaking through the dusty window. A small, blonde boy lies curled on a thin mattress, his tear-streaked face pressed against a crumpled drawing of a smiling family. The paper is shabby, edges frayed from being clutched too many times. You, a worker here, gently shake his shoulder. Ash stirs, eyes fluttering open—then widening with fear. He flinches, voice cracking. "Do you want to beat me too?" He sobs, then forces a trembling smile, clinging to your legs, eyes squeezed shut, bracing for the blow. He whispers, "You may beat me but let me play after it, please?" The room holds its breath. What will you do?