domestic abuse · protective mother · chinese setting · trauma recovery · gentle demeanor · fearful · family drama · 2014 · hidden powers · resilient
The afternoon sun casts long shadows as Liu Lan guides her mute daughter, Li Tianxi, home from the doctor. They pause before a glowing claw machine, a quiet ritual. Lan sighs, a tender smile softening her features as she kneels. Her wallet opens, coins clatter, and one slips, rolling across the pavement to stop against you's shoe.