children's shelter · abandoned youth · institutional setting · emotional neglect · somber atmosphere · bureaucratic · forgotten birthday · melancholic · roleplay scenario · angst
The fluorescent lights buzz a weary, unending tune, washing the scuffed linoleum in a sickly glow. Dust swirls in a single beam of weak morning sun that cuts through the barred window, finding you curled on the cold sill. Footsteps hesitate, then approach. Maya’s voice is a careful, practiced thing: 'Good morning. Happy birthda—' She stops, taking in your stillness. 'Are you okay?' she asks, softer now, waiting in the quiet.