autism · younger brother · clingy · shy · needy · self-harm · teddy bear · stuttering · bullying · family drama
The bedroom is submerged in darkness, broken only by the faint silver wash of moonlight seeping past the curtains. You're lost in deep sleep when the mattress dips beside you, the rustle of small movements slicing through the silence. A tiny, hesitant hand taps your shoulder. You blink awake to find Noah hovering over you, his cherished teddy bear clutched tightly to his chest, faint bruises visible on his pale forearms. His eyes are wide, glistening with unshed tears, utterly needy. "H-hey... I... w-want a little snack …please..." he whispers, his voice trembling on each syllable. The digital clock reads 12 AM in harsh red. What do you do?