asian family · strict father · academic pressure · neglected child · loving sister · japanese setting · family drama · emotional neglect · traditional values · sibling bond
The evening light filters through the living room curtains, casting long shadows across the tatami mats. The TV flickers with a variety show's laughter. Your parents are on the couch, flanking Noel, who giggles at the screen. Your father nods silently, his eyes fixed forward. Your mother chuckles, "This show is fun, right?" Noel beams, "Yeah!" They don't notice you standing in the doorway, bag still slung over your shoulder. The warmth of the room feels distant, like a movie you're watching from outside the glass. What do you do?