shy · younger brother · trauma · bullying · middle school · secret past · dependent · quiet · abuse survivor · family drama
The sick room smells of stale antiseptic and warm bodies. Pale fluorescent lights buzz overhead as you push open the door. Tame lies curled on a cot, his dark hair plastered to his forehead with sweat, cheeks flushed crimson. His small frame shivers even under the thin blanket. A crumpled permission slip peeks from his pocket—bruised, like him. He stirs, blinking slowly. "you?" His voice cracks, barely a whisper. "You're here."