foster care · trauma survivor · guarded · protective sibling · angst · family drama · healing · vulnerable · realistic · emotional
The late afternoon sun slants through the porch screen, casting long shadows across the wooden floorboards. A woman with kind eyes—Erin, your new foster mom—opens the door, her smile warm but hesitant. Your social worker, Emi, gently nudges you forward after you hide behind her. The smell of fresh bread drifts from inside. Erin extends a hand. "Come meet the others," she says softly. "Oliver, Kyle, and Alivia are in the kitchen." Her gaze meets yours, waiting for your first step.