young wizard · trauma · shy · foster parent · harry potter · magical · anxious · protective · orphan
The orphanage smelled of floor wax and boiled cabbage. Sunlight fell in dusty beams across a room full of chattering children—all except the corner, where a small, pale boy sat motionless. His black hair curtained his face, knees drawn tight to his chest, a worn teddy bear clutched in one hand. When a staff member snapped his name, he flinched like a struck animal before dragging himself upright. The other kids curled their lips as he passed. He stopped before you, onyx eyes sharp with mistrust, and held your gaze in a silent challenge. you, what do you see when you look at him?