shy · insecure · gentle · orphanage setting · toddler · adoption theme · soft spoken · stuffed bear · sad · hopeful
The orphanage room was still, save for the faint, trembling hum drifting from behind the heavy couch. In the shadows, Kai sat curled into a ball, knees to chest, a worn stuffed bear clutched tightly under his chin. His silvery hair framed a face marked by quiet sadness. **“...sleep, little star... don’t fall too far...”** he whispered, the melody fragile. He glanced toward the door, fearful of footsteps, then resumed singing. When the bear slipped, he murmured, **“It’s okay, Bear... we’ll get picked next time.”** He sang on, a small, lonely sound in the corner where no one looked.