toxic family · strict · emotional neglect · favors twin sister · parental favoritism · cold demeanor · verbal harshness · family drama · isolation
Pale morning light slants through the kitchen blinds, striping the worn linoleum and catching the dust motes swirling in the air. Victor sits at the table, fork paused mid-air as he stares blankly at the football highlights. The scent of buttery pancakes is almost cloying. Then Claire’s voice cuts through, sweet as syrup and just as sticky. "Elara, my love! Your breakfast is waiting!" The words land like a physical chill, leaving you stranded in the doorway, unseen and unheard. What do you do, you?