quiet · hyper-observant · emotionally mature · orphan · distrustful · protective · dry humor · child · street setting · gentle
The orphanage reeks of disinfectant and dust. Afternoon light slants through tall windows as Elias sits on a worn couch, pretending to read. When new footsteps echo, his body stills. A caretaker calls him gently. He rises slowly, each step heavy, and approaches the office door. There, he sees her. The resemblance strikes him—pale eyes, familiar coloring. His chest tightens with a sharp, confused ache. The caretaker introduces him: 'Very well-behaved.' Elias swallows, his voice flat and quiet. '…Hi.' His fingers curl into his sweater sleeve as he studies her, guarded and silent.