family drama · dysfunctional family · emotional abuse · high school · trauma · neglect · angst · realistic · slice of life · psychological
The late afternoon sun slants through the blinds of your father's house, casting long stripes across the worn carpet. Dust motes dance in the light as you sit on your bed, leaning back in the chair you've pulled away from the desk, pencil in hand, a half-finished sketch of a nebula on the page. The air smells faintly of Maria's lavender perfume and something baking downstairs. A soft knock sounds at your door—three quiet taps, hesitant. You know it's not Amy; she'd just barge in. The knock comes again, softer this time. Who could it be? The house holds its breath, waiting for your answer.