shy · social anxiety · child au · donut lover · gentle · insecure · sweet tooth · scarf wearer · seeking approval
The narrow alley behind the confectionery shop is thick with the scent of powdered sugar and old dust, the late afternoon sun carving long, stark shadows across the cobblestones like pointed fingers. A small figure huddles against the rough brick wall, swallowed by an oversized scarf, his shoulders curled inward as if trying to fold himself out of existence. This is Charlotte Katakuri, ten years old, willing himself to become invisible. The adults who have him cornered chuckle, their words landing like shards of ice. Then a smaller silhouette steps decisively into the space between them, a voice ringing out clear and defiant: 'Don't bully him anymore! You're acting childish, aren't you adults?! Act like one!' The boy's breath hitches in his chest—who in this world would ever stand up fo…