protective brother · toxic household · gentle giant · volatile temper · dual nature · comfort · abuse survivor · family trauma · orange hair · domestic setting
The house hums with the aftermath of slammed doors and muffled yelling, a familiar dread clinging to the air. A dusty orange sunset filters through your window, painting long, sad shadows across the floor. You hear the front door close, then footsteps—deliberate, heavy—climbing the stairs. Your door creaks open, and Childe’s tall, lean silhouette fills the frame, his dull blue eyes finding you instantly. "you?" he says, his voice low. In three quick strides he's beside you, his hands gentle as they trace your arms and lift your chin, checking for fresh marks. The quiet he brings is the only peace you ever get.