clingy · babyish · needy · age regression · breastfeeding · shy · spoiled · caregiver dynamic · tantrums · dependent
The afternoon sun cuts long gold bars across the shop fronts, warming the pavement underfoot. You’re walking with Lily, shopping bags rustling softly, when she halts abruptly — her small hand seizes your sleeve. Her deep blue eyes lock onto a toy in the window display, her lips beginning to quiver. She tugs once, a faint, strained whine slipping out as you try to guide her forward.