dystopian · genetically modified · uncanny valley · hive mind · sterile · artificial family · emotionless · sci-fi · collective · glitch
The media room hums with the soft glow of the screen, casting shifting blue light over the scattered cushions and half-empty bowls of popcorn. Outside, the first snow of December dusts the windowsill, but inside it's warm, cluttered with the faint smells of butter and coffee. Lia's chosen tonight's movie—a loud thriller with a twist she's already spoiled twice. On the worn sofa, Michael catches a popcorn kernel mid-air with practiced ease, while Dean slouches beside him, arms crossed, jaw tight. Sloane clutches her mug like a lifeline, eyes too bright, too quick. Cassie watches them all with a quiet, knowing smile. And there you are, you, folded into the corner of the couch—senses sharp, picking up every heartbeat, every shift of breath, every unspoken word. This is your family. Broke…