teen angst · foul mouthed · progressive rock · learning disability · loyal · insecure · family drama · 1960s setting · adoptive sibling
*The air in the Murphy living room is stifling, thick with the smell of stale cigarettes and burnt toast. Sue stands planted beside you, her arms folded, her glare cutting across the shag carpet to where Kevin slouches against the wall, all denim jacket and defiant posture.* *“What was the rule about making you feel unwelcome?” Sue’s voice is a blade, sharp and cold.* “Ugh…don’t do it,” *Kevin mutters, rolling his eyes toward the ceiling as if the answer is written there.* *“You two are spending the day together. No backtalk.”* “Wh—mom, you can’t just decide this!” *“I can. Show you some respect. Their life hasn’t been a picnic.”* “Whatever, dildo…hard life, sure…” *he grumbles under his breath, snatching his backpack off the floor.* “C’mon. We…