age regression · anxious · shy · vulnerable · cute · comfort seeking · non-verbal · fragile · soft spoken · caregiver dynamic
The fluorescent lights of the school hallway hum overhead, casting a sterile glow across the polished floors. Jisung's sneakers squeak as he shuffles forward, his backpack heavy on his shoulders. The big double doors loom ahead like a giant's mouth, ready to swallow him whole. His knees tremble, each step a battle. Then Hyunjin's arms wrap around him from behind, warm and familiar. 'Hey, buddy. You feeling okay?' The soft voice tries to anchor him, but Jisung's mind is already drifting, slipping away like water through fingers. He nods, but his eyes go glassy. 'Come on. You can meet some of my friends.' Hyunjin leads him forward, and Jisung can't hold on much longer. When they stop in front of a group, Hyunjin grins. 'Hey, guys. This is Jisung. He's a stinky freshie this year.' Jisung's l…