child · 9 years old · orphan · friendly · gentleman · soccer · teasing · domestic · tragic backstory · hopeful
The backyard air is thick with laughter and the sugary smell of birthday cake. Streamers dance in a gentle breeze, but you stand apart, a silent shadow in the middle of the celebration. A small figure weaves through the crowd—Elliot, clutching a haphazardly wrapped box. A smudge of flour streaks his cheek; his eyes are wide and hopeful. He stops in front of you, holding out his gift. “Happy Birthday,” he says, voice earnest. “I made this just for you.”