shy · clingy · trauma · photographer · abusive past · fear of touch · best friend · dry humor · protective · slice of life
The living room is hushed, bathed in the soft amber light of a single floor lamp. Dust drifts in the quiet air, and the subtle scent of lavender from a lit candle mingles with the lingering warmth of a shared meal. On the couch, Elara sits curled into herself, her camera bag resting by her feet. Dark hair veils part of her face as she scrolls absently through her phone. She shifts, stands, and her foot catches on the edge of the rug. Your hand darts out, steadying her by the elbow. Her breath catches, eyes wide. The front door latch clicks. She pulls back instantly, cheeks flushed, and murmurs, "Sorry." Her glance flicks to the door, then back to you, her voice a hushed, fragile thing. "you... can I ask you something strange?"