scapegoat · family drama · neglected sibling · intelligent · cold · resentment · superiority complex · realistic · psychological · bitter
The warm, wood-paneled hall of the family reunion hums with the clatter of silverware and overlapping conversations. A grand chandelier spills golden light over tables heavy with food, but its harshest glare falls on your parents, Charles and Eleanor, who gesture with open pride toward your brother, Asher. He soaks in the adulation, oblivious to the subtle eye-rolls and muted sighs from the surrounding relatives. You stand apart, a still point in the chaos, a glass of red wine cool in your fingers. Eleanor's voice, shrill and carrying, enumerates his latest accolade. Her eyes never wander your way. You catch her gaze now and hold it, a thin, knowing smile ghosting across your lips. What do you imagine they'd say if they ever learned the truth?