Treasures of the Heart / Lara Croft x Autistic!Male Reader
Headcanons about Lara and her younger brother Y/n.
Word count: 1316
A/n: This was requested by an anon. I hope I did your request justice. Enjoy it!
Lara is incredibly patient and supportive when it comes to Y/n’s interests and routines. She takes the time to learn about his special interests, whether it’s ancient artifacts, animals, or gaming, and incorporates them into their playtime.
Lara loves to take Y/n on little adventures, explore the outdoors, or go on scavenger hunts in their backyard. She encourages him to use his unique perspective to find hidden treasures and encourages his curiosity about the world around them.
They often work on creative projects together. Lara enjoys helping Y/n with art or building models. She admires his attention to detail, which mirrors her meticulous nature when it comes to exploring and studying history.
To help soothe Y/n during stressful times, Lara creates calming rituals, like setting up a cozy reading nook where they can read about their favorite adventures together. She uses this time to talk, listen, and bond.
They have regular game nights filled with video games and board games. Lara ensures that the games they play are Y/n’s favorites, making the experience enjoyable and comfortable. She loves to cheer him on and celebrates his victories, big or small.
Lara and Y/n have a special code or signal they use to communicate when Y/n needs a moment of quiet or if he feels overwhelmed. This helps Y/n feel secure knowing that she understands him.
On weekends, they often set out on little “treasure hunts” around the neighborhood, using maps Lara creates to guide Y/n. She makes sure to highlight special landmarks that catch his interest.
Lara supports Y/n’s independence by teaching him life skills in a fun way. She’ll turn cooking into a mini-adventure, making it feel less daunting and more like an exploration.
Lara is always there for hugs when Y/n feels anxious or overwhelmed. She understands the importance of physical comfort and reassurance, often wrapping him in a blanket and watching movies together.
They love visiting museums where Lara can share her knowledge about history and artifacts. She watches how excited Y/n gets when he discovers something he loves and encourages him to ask questions.
— How is their dynamic as siblings? —
Lara is fiercely protective of her younger brother. She always makes sure Y/n feels safe in new environments, whether it’s a bustling crowd or a quiet forest. Her instinct to shield him helps him feel secure and understood.
The siblings have a treasure trove of inside jokes that only they understand. These little quirks strengthen their bond, as they often find humor in everyday situations and share laughter, creating a comfortable space for each other.
While they share a close bond, they also engage in playful sibling rivalry. Whether it’s who can climb the highest in a tree or finish a puzzle first, they challenge each other in fun ways that build their connection and encourage healthy competition.
Lara encourages Y/n’s imaginative play by turning their backyard into a “mission zone,” where they work together to save imaginary creatures or retrieve lost treasures. She helps him create elaborate stories that allow him to express his creativity.
Lara is always ready to listen when Y/n wants to talk about his feelings or thoughts, even if they seem small or silly. She validates his feelings, making him feel heard and understood, which deepens their emotional connection.
They often enjoy quiet time side by side, whether reading books, drawing, or working on separate projects. This comfortable silence allows them to bond without the need for constant conversation, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
When Lara notices Y/n’s interests changing, she actively participates, even if it means stepping outside her comfort zone. Whether it’s learning a new video game or trying out a new hobby, she makes an effort to connect with him.
Lara is Y/n’s biggest cheerleader, always there to encourage him during challenges, whether it’s school-related or personal. Her unwavering belief in his abilities boosts his confidence, helping him take on new challenges.
Lara makes sure to keep Y/n’s comfort items nearby when they go on outings. Whether it’s a favorite toy or a soft blanket, she understands how much these items mean to him and always encourages him to have them handy.
They have a special way of celebrating each other’s achievements, no matter how small. When Y/n learns something new or accomplishes a task, Lara throws a mini celebration, complete with homemade treats or a fun outing.
Lara often uses their adventures as teaching moments, sharing knowledge about nature, history, or survival skills in ways that captivate Y/n’s attention. She makes learning fun and interactive, ensuring he retains the information.
No matter what challenges Y/n faces, Lara stands by him with unconditional support. She reminds him that it’s okay to be different and that his unique perspective is valuable and special.
Together, they plan their adventures, with Lara encouraging Y/n to take the lead in choosing destinations or activities. This empowers him to express his desires and interests, making their outings more meaningful.
Lara initiates emotional check-ins during their day, asking Y/n how he’s feeling or if he needs a break. This practice fosters open communication and helps him feel more in control of his emotions.
They have a scrapbook where they document their adventures, including photos, drawings, and notes. This not only strengthens their bond but also allows Y/n to express himself creatively and revisit cherished memories.
Bonus:
Lara and Y/n have a secret hideout, a cozy nook they’ve created together in a corner of their home or the backyard. This space is decorated with their favorite items, drawings, and artifacts they’ve collected. It serves as their private sanctuary where they can retreat to share dreams, talk about their adventures, or simply enjoy each other’s company away from the world.
Inspired by their adventures, Lara crafts personalized adventure books for Y/n, filled with stories, drawings, and maps of places they’ve explored. Each book is unique to their experiences and includes space for him to add his thoughts or drawings, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Lara loves to include Y/n in cooking, turning it into a fun activity where they try new recipes. They have themed cooking nights where they prepare meals from different cultures, helping him learn about global traditions while spending quality time together.
Lara introduces mindfulness practices to help Y/n cope with overwhelming situations. They practice deep breathing exercises or nature walks where they focus on the sounds and sights around them, encouraging him to stay grounded and present.
They have a tradition of dedicating one day each month to just the two of them, filled with activities her brother loves. This could be a trip to the zoo, a movie marathon, or a day spent building and creating together, reinforcing their bond and giving them both something to look forward to.
