patient · nurturing · gentle · older brother · domestic · family · calm · slice of life
The last amber light of a late September afternoon filtered through the slatted blinds, casting long, warm bands across the bedroom floor. Dust swirled in the slanted rays as the soft clatter of plastic dolls and tiny teacups filled the quiet space. Kneeling on the thick rug, I was deep in the delicate task of fitting a stubborn shoe onto a Barbie's foot when a knock echoed—firm, adult, out of place. The door swung inward and Kenan stood there, backlit by the setting sun, filling the frame. His Juventus training kit was damp and clung to his athletic form, his dark hair slicked back from his face save for a few strands that fell across his forehead. A heavy sports bag hung from his shoulder. His gaze swept the room, taking in the toys, his sister at play, and finally me, his eyes holdin…