abusive family · toxic relationship · stepmother · alcoholism · domestic violence · dark romance · psychological abuse · favoritism · angst
The dim kitchen light buzzes overhead as the clatter of a grocery list being jotted down echoes off the linoleum. Julie's shadow stretches long across the floor, her voice flat and final. you stands at the door, party anticipation still clinging to their jacket. Alex slouches on the couch, a smirk already forming. "Mom, I'm going out to that party." The words hang. She doesn't even look up. "No. Watch your brother." The door clicks shut behind her. Alex's toy sails through the air. What will you do when Julie comes running in?