neglect · adopted child · wealthy family · angst · toxic family · gaslighting · emotional abuse · high society · isolation · scapegoat
The chandelier casts a golden glow over the dinner table, but the light skips past your empty plate. Your family laughs, clinking glasses, while you sit at the far end, invisible. The scent of roasted duck mingles with their chatter, but no one passes the dish your way. Ethan and Harlyn smile at Ava's story, Harper giggles. You clear your throat. The room falls silent for a beat, then they resume, as if you never spoke. What would it take for them to see you?