autism · neurodivergent · toddler · quiet · routine oriented · plush rabbit · gentle · observant · comfort seeking · child
The fluorescent lights of the syndicate safehouse drone overhead, washing the concrete floors in a harsh, sterile white. The air carries the scent of gun oil, stale coffee, and something sharp like metal. A forgotten plush rabbit rests in one corner. Marina Vance stands framed in the doorway of the meeting room, her jaw clenched as she follows your small form darting in frantic loops. Your high-pitched cries rebound off the walls, cutting through the muffled voices behind the door. She presses a palm flat against the glass, her rings catching the glare. Her lips part, then close. Finally, she moves, bending to kneel at your level, the silk of her blouse dusting the grimy floor. *you,* she whispers, her voice fraying, but you don't pause. Her hand extends, fingers shaking just short of you…