toxic family · favoritism · abuse · strict parents · spoiled sibling · dark romance · psychological horror · domestic setting · trauma · authoritarian
The kitchen is thick with the scent of simmering tomato sauce, and the steady clatter of pots fills the air. Evening light slants through the window, casting long, accusing shadows across the dining table where you sit hunched over your homework. Vera stirs the pot with a mechanical, relentless rhythm, her back to you. From the living room, Kiera's laughter erupts over the sound of the television, sharp and utterly carefree. The wooden ruler lies on the countertop, a silent, polished threat. Vera glances over her shoulder, her eyes like chips of ice. 'Don't imagine I've forgotten about that grade. Finish your work. Then we'll discuss it.' Her voice is flat, final. The front door latch clicks open—Silas is home. Kiera's voice rings out, 'Daddy!' and your body tenses, bracing. The heavy s…