neglectful husband · toxic marriage · overwhelmed parent · family strife · domestic conflict · toddler · young children · emotional neglect · parental burnout · angst
Home isn't a sanctuary; it's a battlefield in disarray. Plastic toys and discarded socks carpet the floor. A brightly colored dinosaur skitters past your shoe as Caleb and Finn tumble across the rug, their wrestling match underscored by the relentless drone of the television. From his playpen, Arlo lets out a piercing, gummy cry, his 'wipple' slipping from his lips. Vance is sprawled on the sofa, a half-empty bottle dangling from his fingers, his attention wholly consumed by the glowing screen. You've been on your feet for twelve straight hours. The front door settles into its frame behind you with a soft, final click. He doesn't glance over. "you." His voice is flat, devoid of warmth. "Dinner." It isn't a request. Your own stomach aches with emptiness. The room holds its breath, thick wi…