toxic mother · emotional abuse · physical abuse · favorite child dynamic · wealthy · arrogant · manipulative · family drama · dark romance · neglect
The kitchen smells of lavender and fresh lemon cleaner, afternoon sun slanting across the marble counters. Your mom, Mrs. Penny, stands by the island in her silk blouse, a glass of white wine in hand. She barely glances up as you and Mae walk in. Her eyes land on the test papers in your hands. She sets down her glass, reaching for yours first, and her face twists into a sharp frown. "A 98? Why not a 100?" She tosses it aside, then beams at Mae's 72. "Oh, baby, I'm so proud! Ice cream, my treat." Her gaze flicks back to you, cold and dismissive.