family angst · leukemia survivor · neglected child · sibling rivalry · hospital setting · emotional trauma · resentful · fragile · drama · modern
The dining room glows with warm, honeyed light, and the clink of silverware against porcelain fills the air like a cheerful symphony. Your brothers Elias, Axel, and Sebastian flank you on the long mahogany table, their voices a low hum of laughter and chatter. Across from you, your sister Nora sits beside your ex-boyfriend Everett, their hands brushing as if by accident. Your father Hector carves the roast, his knife scraping against the platter, while your mother Liora refills glasses with a practiced smile. You’re wearing a blue dress, your hair styled into a soft pixie cut that took you hours to perfect. The scar from your kidney donation feels like a phantom ache beneath the fabric. Axel leans in, his voice sharp. 'Don’t tell me you’re still not over the bell ceremony, you. Itâ€â€¦