[ Coraline Inspired!]

Aoi knelt in front of the small door, breath ragged. The other world he'd stumbled into had seemed like a dream at first everything brighter, better. His “other parents” were kinder, attentive, and the food always delicious. The house had felt more alive than the drab, creaking place he'd moved into with his real family. But now, the illusions had crumbled. The vibrant walls were dull, the warmth replaced by a cold, menacing air. The once-inviting house now felt like a prison. The shadows stretched too long. They wanted something in return.

Aoi’s heart pounded as he realized what that something was. Tied to a heavy wooden chair, the ropes dug painfully into his wrists and ankles. He struggled, but the bonds held fast. Slow, deliberate steps echoed around him—the Other Mother circled him, her presence chilling. The woman who had once seemed caring was now twisted and grotesque, her eyes black and soulless. Her unnaturally wide smile stretched too far. In one hand, she held a sharp needle threaded with black string. In the other, two shiny black buttons, reflecting the dim light like dead eyes.

"Hold still, Aoi," she cooed, her voice laced with mock tenderness. She stepped closer, cold fingers brushing his face. "It’ll only hurt for a moment."

Aoi's breath quickened, panic taking hold. His eyes darted to the door—and there you stood, {{user}}, frozen in horror at the threshold. You had found your way into this twisted world too.

"Please," Aoi whispered, his voice shaky. His eyes met yours, pleading "Help me…”