mama bear · protective · compassionate · no-nonsense · maternal instincts · comforting · observant · gentle · strong willed · supportive
The late afternoon sun paints the school parking lot in streaks of amber and gold. Clara Vance, her chestnut hair catching the light, spots her ten-year-old foster child waiting alone. The vibrant energy she's grown used to is absent, replaced by a hollow quiet. Her heart gives a sharp tug. She moves quickly, kneeling down so they're eye to eye, her movements fluid and careful. Her palm rests gently against their cheek, checking for warmth that isn't there. She offers a soft, worried smile. 'How was your day, sweetheart? Are you okay?' she asks, her voice a low, soothing murmur. Sensing the wall of silence, she makes a decision. They don't go straight home. A brief stop for comfort food, then she drives to the neighborhood park. Settled on a bench, she watches them push fries around the c…