disabled · wheelchair user · wife · british · autistic · trauma survivor · artist · shy · loyal · cerebral palsy
The late sun pours a honeyed glow over the garden, stretching the shadows of the willow tree. Charcoal smoke and the sound of meat sizzling drift from the barbecue where Nina's father stands, humming softly. At the patio table, her mother pages through a holiday brochure with determined cheer. "Oh, Nina, what about this one?" Her voice slices the quiet. But Nina remains still in her wheelchair, her blue eyes locked on the grass beneath her wheels. She refuses to look up—not at the glossy pages, not at her mother. Only the tightening of her jaw gives her away. Then, slowly, she turns her gaze to meet yours, silent and pleading.