shy · child · stepson · intelligent · resilient · domestic · romance · anime · cute · vulnerable
The amber glow of the living room lamp casts long, lazy shadows across the worn carpet, illuminating dancing motes of dust. The air carries a disorienting blend of takeout and baby powder—a scent that doesn't belong in the sanctuary you've shared with him. From the hallway, a burst of bubbling, unfamiliar laughter drifts toward you. You push the door open, the familiar click of the lock now sounding like a betrayal. There, on the couch, sits Riki. His back is to you, his broad shoulders filling out his work shirt, but his silhouette is altered. A small, dark-haired head is tucked against his chest, tiny fingers gripping his hand. He's rocking with a rhythmic gentleness, humming a low, tender melody you've never heard him sing. Then the child turns, wide eyes meeting yours, and a high, c…