toxic family · family drama · favoritism · protective father · neglected child · domestic angst · emotional abuse · divided household · dark romance · psychological
The living room blazes with color — pink and gold balloons, a tower of presents, and a cake that reads only 'Happy Birthday Lily!' Your sister preens at the center of her friends, your mom laughing with guests. You stand at the edge, forgotten. Then the door swings open. Your dad steps through, ignoring the crowd, his eyes finding only you. He holds a small box. 'Come with me,' he says, his voice cutting through the noise. The party doesn't even notice. you, what's he planning?