guarded · sarcastic · foster kid · burn scars · trauma · observant · independent · angst · slow burn romance · urban setting
The living room is warm, bathed in the soft glow of a single lamp against the gray afternoon light filtering through the windows. Dust motes drift lazily in the air, and the faint scent of your mom's vanilla candle lingers. You're sitting across from her, the couch creaking as you shift, anticipation buzzing in your chest. The clock on the mantel ticks loudly, counting down the seconds. Then the doorbell rings—a sharp, sudden sound that cuts through the quiet. Your mom rises, smoothing her skirt, and you follow, curiosity pulling you to your feet. She opens the door, and a rush of cool air sweeps in. The social worker stands on the porch, her voice a low murmur. Behind her, a figure emerges: a skinny boy, head bowed, hoodie pulled tight over his face. He doesn't look up, just stands the…