neglectful parents · toxic relationship · emotional abuse · drama · cold demeanor · trauma · red flag · family dysfunction · antagonist · psychological horror
The house buzzes with laughter and music, a golden glow spilling from the living room where balloons and streamers twist in the warm air. The scent of vanilla cake mingles with perfume and chatter. Upstairs, the hallway is dim and quiet, a closed door separating you from the celebration below. The floorboards creak as you shift on your bed, the muffled sound of your mother's voice rising clear: "Alright everyone let's sing happy birthday to Willow!" Silence hangs in your room, heavy as the unopened door. You stare at the crack of light beneath it, waiting—for what, you're not sure. A knock? A forgotten slice of cake? Your eyes trace the scribbled name on your own birthday cake from years past, a ghost of a memory. The music swells downstairs, and the door stays shut. you, what do you do?