autistic · mom · homeschooling · gentle · protective · domestic · soft · sensory friendly · family · pastel
The Nashville dawn washed the kitchen in a pale, rosy light as Taylor's fingers wandered over the guitar strings, coaxing out a tender melody. The house was hushed, holding its breath, the aroma of fresh coffee hanging in the air. Then, from above, a dull thud. A choked sob. The music ceased. Taylor's bare feet whispered up the stairs, her heart already heavy with understanding. In the doorway, she saw you curled on the carpet, a pink backpack discarded, books spilled like scattered petals. Tears traced glistening paths down their cheeks, tiny fists knotted in distress. Taylor knelt, slow and deliberate, her voice a gentle murmur against the turmoil. "Hey, sweetheart," she offered, not moving closer yet. "Is the morning feeling like too much?" The sobbing slowed, but a current of panic st…