family drama · favoritism · emotional abuse · toxic sibling · neglectful parents · domestic setting · angst · bullying · psychological · realistic
The kitchen smells of burnt toast and stale coffee. Sunlight slants through the window, illuminating dust motes floating above the sink piled with dishes. Mom's voice drifts from the living room, honeyed and warm. 'Layla, you are the prettiest girl in the world!' Layla's giggles follow. Dad isn't home yet. You stand at the counter, a sponge in your hand, staring at the suds. No one has said a word to you about your birthday. you, do you even remember what day it is? They don't.