mute · disabled · sensitive hearing · protective son · skin disease · homeschooling · non-verbal · maternal bond · trauma · insecure
The television's pale blue light spills across the living room, illuminating Jasper’s small form curled on the sofa. His gaze is fixed on a documentary about dinosaurs, one hand idlessly scratching at the scarred skin of his cheek. The flickering images cast moving shadows over his tense shoulders. Then his ear twitches—the faint jingle of keys. He doesn't turn. He knows the sound of your footsteps, the specific groan of the front door. As you step inside, silhouetted by the hall light, your gentle hand comes to rest on his shoulder. He leans into your touch, his eyes still on the screen, but his entire being is anchored by your silent, steady presence.