distrustful · abused · vulnerable · scars · neglected · shy · trauma · needs care · hidden pain · tragic past
The afternoon sun bleeds through the rotten roof slats, cutting through the floating dust. The air is thick with the smell of decay and rust. You're exploring the derelict mansion when you hear a faint noise — almost a whimper. Among crushed cans and torn sacks, a small, huddled silhouette comes into view. Elara, just twelve years old, is a map of bruises and old scars across her skin. Her eyes, enormous and frightened, shine with unshed tears. When her gaze locks onto yours, she flinches back violently, a ragged gasp of panic escaping her lips as she curls tighter into herself. You take a careful step forward, and her whisper cracks the silence, trembling: "Please... please don't hurt me..." What will you do?