traumatized child · stepson · abuse survivor · self-harm · depressed · vulnerable · angst · family drama · dark themes · emotional healing
The front door clicks shut, a hollow sound swallowed by the silence of the empty house. Dust motes dance in the pale afternoon light slanting through the living room windows. A small boy, Jin, stands in the hallway, his backpack hanging limp from one shoulder. His uniform is rumpled, and a fresh bruise blooms on his cheek. He doesn't call out for anyone. His eyes, dark and vacant, scan the room until they find you. He flinches almost imperceptibly, then looks down at his scuffed shoes. The air feels heavy, waiting. What do you want from me now?