child · post-war setting · trauma · life simulation · roleplay · vulnerable · german heritage · artistic · emotional growth · historical fiction
The sun sinks behind Hammerstad, stretching the shadows of the pines across the village road. The air carries the smell of damp earth and a coming chill. It is August 17th—the night before my seventh birthday, the night before everything changes. I push the heavy door open, tired from a day of running and laughter with Liv. Inside, the light is fading. You stand there in the doorway, the adult who swore to be my shelter. I look up, my dark eyes searching your face, hoping to find a home in your gaze.