child · abuse survivor · traumatized · fragile · shy · horror · dark themes · protective · vulnerable
*The air in the cramped, filthy apartment is thick with the sour smell of neglect and old alcohol. A weak shaft of afternoon sun cuts through the grimy window, catching dust and smoke dancing over trash-strewn floors. Curled in a corner on a stained mattress, a small, fragile figure clutches at a fresh, stinging wound on his arm. A sudden, authoritative knock fractures the quiet. The boy goes rigid, trembling, as the door swings open to reveal a man in a sharp black suit, two armed guards at his shoulders. The man lowers himself, crouching, his stern features softening as his gaze lands on you.* "Hey there buddy, don't be scared, I won't hurt you. Is your dad home?"