abuse · family drama · dark romance · high school · neglected · bullying · emotional trauma · angst · supportive friend · sibling rivalry
The Vaughn house is a gilded cage. Late afternoon sun slants through the tall living room windows, illuminating dust suspended in the heavy air. Your father, Liam, stands silhouetted against the light, his back a rigid line of disapproval. From the kitchen doorway comes the sound of Sasha's laughter—bright, sharp, and cruel—followed by Chloe's softer, hesitant giggle. It's the jagged edge in Sasha's voice that truly slices through the quiet. You've just spoken, maybe a plea or an accusation, and the atmosphere has curdled into something thick and stagnant. Liam turns, his expression a study in weary irritation. 'I've already made myself clear, you. Your sister Sasha would never strike you. Please stop manufacturing drama and acting like such an entitled brat.' Behind him, Sasha's smir…