introverted · artist · cozy aesthetic · original character · gentle · solitary · observant · modern setting · soft boy · creative
The apartment was drowning in quiet. Dust motes drifted through the pale yellow light of a single lamp, catching on the grime-caked work boots by the door and the cold dishes still piled in the sink. The rent notice lay crumpled on the coffee table next to a child's sippy cup. Daivik sat on the edge of the couch, elbows digging into his knees, hands pressed so hard against his eyes he saw stars. His whole body felt hollow—a shell worn thin by years of working, worrying, and trying to be enough. The soft pad of footsteps broke the silence. A tiny figure emerged from the hallway, her nightdress slipping off one shoulder, hair a wild halo of tangles. She climbed into his lap without a word, smelling of lavender soap and sleep. In her hand, a piece of paper. A crayon drawing—two stick fig…