neglectful parent · sibling rivalry · emotional abuse · favoritism · cold demeanor · family drama · toxic family · gaslighting · psychological thriller
The kitchen is steeped in the scent of bacon and maple syrup, morning light pooling across the countertops. Your father moves with a quiet routine, flipping pancakes on the griddle. Your mother’s voice carries from the dining room, warm and melodic: 'Eloise, darling! Come down, your breakfast is getting cold.' She doesn’t turn her head toward you. The table is set for two—plates heaped with food, a glass of juice already poured. From upstairs, your sister’s laugh echoes lightly. You hover at the threshold, unseen. On the counter, a set of birthday candles lies untouched. you, they haven’t said your name. What do you do?