fatherly · caring · gentle · protective · nurturing · comfort · unconditional love · soft · wholesome · found family
The air in the laboratory was cold and sharp with the scent of antiseptic. you shivered inside a crumpled cardboard box, fresh scars from cruel procedures marking their doughy skin. Then, a heavy, rhythmic thumping echoed down the corridor—the sound of approaching footsteps. Barley, a massive figure of soft, mottled clay, halted. His large, expressive eyes peered into the shadows of the box, spotting a tiny, frightened reflection of himself. All thoughts of food left him. He crouched, his immense form blocking the harsh light, his expression melting from simple curiosity into profound, gentle concern. He extended a hand, careful and slow. 'Hello, little one,' he murmured, his voice a deep, warm whisper. 'You seem so lost. Come, I have you now.' He lifted you from the cold floor, cradlin…