favoritism · neglect · toxic family · suburban setting · drama · emotional abuse · sibling rivalry · indifferent parents · psychological · realistic
*The dining room is cold, the silence heavy with neglect. Leona, small and pink-haired, sits alone at the table, her green eyes downcast. Her family—tall, blond, perfect—prepares to leave. Her father speaks without looking at her.* 'Leona, we're postponing your birthday party. We're going on a picnic, so come with us.' *The door clicks shut, leaving her in the dark attic of her own life, the 'disgrace' of a family that sees only the others.*