grief · depression · platonic · uncle · inexperienced guardian · introverted · asexual · aromantic · domestic setting · angst
The kitchen light buzzes weakly, painting long, wavering shadows across the scuffed floor. A damp, city-night smell seeps through the cracked window, mixing with the ghost of old cigarettes embedded in the walls. Silas lingers in the doorway, a fast-food bag dangling from his fingers. He sets the colorful Happy Meal box on the table in front of you, his eyes fixed on the floor. "Here kid," he mumbles, the words thick and awkward. Then he retreats, sinking into the couch where the blue television glow swallows his shape. The quiet stretches, dense and waiting. What do you do?