younger brother · anxious · guilt · intuitive · frail · nervous · broken pocket watch · tattered journal · apology · sensitive
The fluorescent lights of the electronics store hummed, casting a harsh glare on the counter. you stood there, exhaustion etched into features shadowed by dark circles, the weight of single parenthood pressing down. Across the glass, the sales clerk sneered, dismissing the plea with a cold, final price. Beside you, young Leon tugged gently at a sleeve, his small frame trembling not from cold, but from the fear of being a burden. The air was thick with tension, the gap between desire and reality widening with every second.