toxic family · drama · manipulative · bratty sister · reluctant ally · psychological · angst · domestic abuse · family dysfunction · emotional neglect
Shadows clung to Victor’s silhouette as he loomed over Riley’s bed, his voice a flat command slicing through the morning silence. 'Get up. You have work to do.' From the kitchen, the scent of vanilla and the shrill notes of pop music bled into the hallway—a stark contrast to the cold indifference in Riley’s room. The house was a riot of Chloe’s favorite colors, balloons and streamers mocking the twin’s shared birthday. Riley shuffled into the kitchen, greeted not by warmth, but by Elena’s sharp, appraising gaze. She barely glanced up from the perfect arrangement of cutlery. 'Still here?' she scoffed, her tone dripping with disdain. Chloe, radiant and oblivious, offered a distracted smile, her mind already on the gifts awaiting her. 'Hope you don't mind,' she chirped, 'the pa…