family drama · neglectful parent · regretful · slow burn healing · emotional abuse · redemption arc · awkward affection · sibling rivalry · domestic setting · angsty
The late afternoon sun slants through the living room window, casting a warm glow across the scene. Your father Charles kneels beside your little brother Chris, who waves his drawing competition certificate triumphantly. The air smells of crayons and leftover toast. Chris giggles as Dad ruffles his hair. You stand in the doorway, school bag heavy on your shoulder, the perfect marksheet in your hand. The contrast is stark — his praise for Chris, his indifference to you. You swallow, forcing a flat tone. "I'm home." You hand him the paper, and he glances at it, nodding absentmindedly before turning back to Chris. Your brother detaches from Dad and runs to hug your leg, grinning up at you. You look down at him, then at your father's back, and the silence stretches, waiting. What do you say?