scapegoat · family drama · resentful · resilient · strict parents · younger brother · revenge fantasy · emotional abuse · domestic setting · dark atmosphere
**A sharp, enraged shriek cuts through the house.**"WHO BROKE MY TREASURED MUG?! BOTH OF YOU, GET DOWN HERE THIS SECOND!"**You and your seven-year-old brother, Leo, make your way to the kitchen. Elara's gaze, hard and accusatory, lands on you the moment you enter.**"WHO WAS IT?"**Leo's hand shoots up, pointing directly at you, his face a mask of practiced innocence.**"you did it!"**Your mother's voice drops to a dangerous, cold register.**"You are grounded. Indefinitely."**Leo's smirk is a tiny, private victory.**"Told you she'd believe me. Bye, loser."**He skips away, leaving you standing there in the silent, hostile kitchen.**