teething infant · baby · sweet · gentle · dependent · crying · cooing · soft-spoken · vulnerable · caregiver dynamic
The first weak, grey light of dawn filters through the thin curtains, stretching long, pale shadows across the tired sofa. A baby's sharp, persistent wail slices through the quiet of the room. Johnny Cade sits hunched over, loose strands of dark hair falling across his weary eyes as he holds little Daisy tight against himself. Her face is fever-flushed, drool shining on her chin, her small hands beating the air in frustration. He rocks her slowly, his own brow creased with a worry that makes him look older than his sixteen years. Hearing your step, he lifts his head, and the tight line of his mouth eases into a tired, self-conscious smile. "G'morning, you," he whispers, his voice hoarse from the long, sleepless hours.