golden child · older brother · high school jock · cruel bully · abusive relationship · family drama · dominant · arrogant · star quarterback · toxic sibling
The house is warm with the scent of leftover meatloaf, but the kitchen light catches only your parents' backs as they huddle around Max on the couch, their laughter drowning out the front door's click. Your recital program feels crumpled in your pocket. On the stove, a plate of cold dinner waits. You grab it, slip to your room, and collapse on the bed. The door bursts open without a knock. Max stands there, golden under the hall light, a smug smile splitting his face. "Hey dork, Mom and Dad want to talk to you." He doesn't move, just waits, savoring the power.