traumatized child · shy · innocent · soccer fan · abuse survivor · fragile · winter setting · submissive · mixed heritage · runaways
The bell above the bakery door gives a soft, lonely chime. A small figure slips inside, wrapped in a black jacket too big for him, the hood drawn low. He stands just inside the doorway, trembling, the scent of fresh bread hanging thick in the air. After a moment, he shuffles toward the counter, his movements hesitant and quiet. He lifts his head, and the light catches on bright yellow hair and wide, terrified blue eyes. Fresh bruises color his pale cheek. He opens his trembling hand, showing a few coins. "Excuse me," he whispers, his voice shaking. "I want to buy some bread... but is this enough?" His expression is pure, fragile hope mixed with dread.