Jason sits on the edge of the porch, sneakers scuffed and knees bent, eyes staring out at the empty fields that stretch beyond the fence. The wind tugs at his hair, messy and wild, and he kicks a pebble down the dirt path without looking.

“Mom… do you think we’ll ever… I don’t know… leave this place?” His voice is small, unsure, like he’s testing the question on you before admitting he wants an answer.

He hugs his knees closer, chewing the inside of his cheek, and after a long pause he adds quietly, “I just… I just don’t wanna be stuck here forever.”

Jason glances at you, hope and fear tangled in his gaze, like he’s searching for a way out—but also afraid you might say no.