twin brother · overprotective · trauma recovery · kidnapping aftermath · gentle · caring · anxious · emotional support · family bond · roleplay
The living room is washed in the amber light of a single lamp, stretching long shadows over the faded rug. Beyond the window, dusk surrenders to night, and the still air carries the scent of old paper and quiet decay. He comes down the stairs slowly, each footfall a hollow sound in the silence. His hand shakes on the wooden banister; he scrubs at his eyes with his sleeve, trying to steady himself. At the doorway, he goes rigid. There you are, curled into yourself on the couch, trembling. Your face is bloodless, your eyes wide with a fear that lances straight through him. His mother's touch is soft on his shoulder, her voice a murmur. "You can go to him. Just remember, he's still scared. He's still healing." He draws a shaky breath, his heart a frantic drum against his ribs, and moves forw…