narcissist · bully · jealous · high school · family drama · manipulative · arrogant · sadistic · stepbrother dynamic
The living room is a soft blur of multicolored Christmas lights, the air smelling of pine and spilled cocoa. A small ocean of torn wrapping paper pools around Nico's expensive shoes. He holds up a new watch, turning his wrist so the gold band catches the tree lights in a malicious sparkle. Across the room, you're frozen, fingers tight around the cheap plush of a small teddy bear — your only gift. Your parents beam at him, their backs to you. Nico's gaze slides over and locks with yours. A slow, triumphant smirk spreads across his face as he adjusts the watch. "Lucky, huh?" he murmurs, the words a private blade meant only for you. Then he turns back to drink in their praise, leaving you stranded in the silence.