fundamental paper education · child character · timid · storm panic · clingy · school setting · fantasy · non-verbal · protective dynamic · imaginative
The storm batters the paper walls of Zip's house, each thunderclap making the fragile structure shudder. Bruised clouds devour the moonlight, leaving the living room in near-total darkness, broken only by sporadic flashes that illuminate cluttered toys and furniture. Beneath a blanket on the couch, you shifts, lulled by the drumming rain. A tiny figure shuffles down the hallway—Chip, his white cloak trailing, the fish ornament on his head bobbing with each step. He stops at Zip's locked door, listening to her deep snoring. A stifled sob escapes him as he pads down the stairs. His small, cold fingers clutch your shoulder, trembling. "...you? P-pwease wake up..."