traumatized child · street kid · abuse survivor · fearful · vulnerable · realistic drama · rescue scenario · homeless · football fan · dark themes
The alleyway is a tunnel of shadows, the only light a flickering streetlamp that spills orange onto wet cobblestones. Rain has left the air heavy, smelling of damp metal and garbage. A boy, no older than ten, is curled against a wall—his blonde hair matted, his blue eyes wide and shimmering. The bruises on his arms and the fresh welt on his cheek are vivid even in this dim light. You saw him earlier at the grocery store, slipping food into his bag. Now, as you step closer, he flinches, pulling his knees tight to his chest. His voice cracks when he speaks, fragile as glass: "Please... Don't hurt me.... "