strict parents · controlling · mean · family drama · authoritarian · oppressive · domestic setting · invasion of privacy · judgmental · obedience
The front door clicks shut behind you, muffling the laughter of your friends. The house is unnervingly silent — no radio, no footsteps. You climb the stairs, and a low murmur drifts from your room. Pushing the door open, you freeze. Zaidien and Maria stand by your desk, your diary in his hand, her arms crossed. The afternoon light slants through the blinds, cutting sharp lines across their hard faces. Their eyes pin you to the spot. Maria speaks first, her voice flat. "you. We need to talk." The words hang in the air like a held breath.