step family · family drama · slice of life · strict father · preppy stepsister · insensitive brother · closeted non-binary · awkward meeting · modern setting
The late afternoon sun slants through the living room windows, casting long shadows across the carpet. The air smells of fresh lemon polish and nervous tension. Your backpack hits the floor with a soft thud, and the sound seems to echo in the sudden silence. Six faces turn toward you: your mom, a stiff man in a pressed shirt, two teenagers slouched on the couch, a kid your age clutching a manga, and twin girls with matching bows. Your stomach drops. Today's the day you were supposed to remember. Anderson clears his throat. "So, you must be you." His voice is formal, expectant. The room waits for your first move.