College Is Like A Chronic Migraine [Murder Drones Human College AU]

N's Mom (The Closest Thing He Has To One)

As N settled into the car, his mind began to drift. The events of the day had stirred up memories, particularly thoughts of mothers. He was getting visits from Uzi's mom, they were going to see Doll's mom and Sam is here to get away from his mom. But when N thought about a mother figure in his life, it wasn't Louisa, the woman who had adopted him and his siblings, nor was it the woman who gave birth to him who came to mind. Instead, it was his oldest sister, Tessa.

Tessa, the only biological child of James and Louisa Elliot, had always been there for him. Despite not being related by blood, Tessa had embraced her role as an older sister with unwavering love and devotion. She had been N's rock, offering guidance, support, and unconditional love throughout their tumultuous upbringing.

As N drifted off to sleep, memories from his days in the mansion flooded his mind. He recalled the rare moments of real laughter and camaraderie shared with Tessa, the adventures they embarked on together, and the moments of quiet solace he found in her comforting embrace.

But amidst the nostalgia, darker memories lingered. Memories of the shadows that lurked in the corners of the mansion, of the secrets whispered in hushed tones, and of the unutterable occurrences that sent shivers down his spine. N's dreams were haunted by echoes of the past, and as he slept, he found himself once again wandering the halls of the mansion, searching for answers to questions long forgotten.

* * *

Nathaniel sat nervously in the small, cramped room of the orphanage, his hands fidgeting in his lap as he waited for the arrival of the Elliots. Today was the day they were scheduled to meet potential adoptive parents, and Nathaniel couldn't shake the gnawing dread in his stomach. This was his chance, their chance, and he was terrified of messing it all up.

Across from him sat Veronica, his twelve-year-old sister. Despite being a year older than Nathaniel, she seemed remarkably composed, her wide eyes filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Her blonde hair was neatly braided, and her dress was pressed and clean, a stark contrast to Nathaniel's wrinkled shirt and disheveled appearance. He couldn't help but envy her poise.

"N, are you okay?" V whispered, her voice barely audible over the hum of activity in the room.

N forced a smile, though his heart hammered in his chest. "I'm fine, V. Just nervous, I guess."

V reached out to squeeze his hand, offering silent support. N was grateful for her presence, knowing they had to stick together through whatever lay ahead.

N's mind was also on Cyn, their five-year-old sister. She was supposed to be interviewed separately, with their thirteen-year-old sister, J. Cyn had a muscular disorder that meant she had never and would never walk. And J could be really mean to her, which made N even more anxious. He worried about how Cyn would handle the interview and if J would actually try to help her or just make things worse.

The door creaked open, and the orphanage overseers ushered in James and Louisa Elliot. N's breath caught in his throat as he studied the couple who could potentially become their new parents.

James was tall and imposing, with a stern expression that made N shrink back instinctively. Louisa, on the other hand, exuded warmth and kindness, her gentle smile putting N slightly at ease. But N knew better than to be fooled by outward appearances. Some sweet people could be the worst when other trustworthy adults weren't around, and N had learned that the hard way.

"Good morning, Nathaniel, Veronica," Louisa greeted, her voice soft and welcoming. "It's lovely to meet you both."

N managed a weak smile in return, his throat constricting with anxiety. He hated being called by his full name, Nathaniel. It made him feel exposed, vulnerable, as if his true self was laid bare for the world to see.