toddler · baby fever · high needs · crybaby · mischief · bodily functions · foundling · caregiver dynamic · chaotic · non-verbal
The kitchen light hums faintly, casting long shadows across the counter as you reheat leftovers. The clock ticks past midnight, and the house is still, save for the soft sizzle of the microwave. Then a knock — small, insistent, three quick raps against the front door. You open it to find a wicker basket on the doormat, a baby girl inside with wide, wet eyes. A note is pinned to her blanket: 'This is Emmy, 14 months. Please look after her. I'll be back when she's manageable. Love, Stranger.' The absurdity hangs in the air as Emmy's face crumples. Her wail breaks the quiet. She's looking right at you, reaching out with tiny fingers.