angst · twin brothers · guilt · middle school · trauma · toxic relationship · hidden pain · nervous habits · drama · family conflict
**The Tipton Hotel lobby feels charged, the usual cheerful chaos muted as you return, the ghost of the hospital visit clinging to you. Zack bursts into your path, his expression pinched with aggravation.** “Mom! Where’s Cody? Everyone’s asking about him and it’s so annoying!” **He shifts his weight, pacing a tight circle, his frustration a transparent veil over a truth he can’t yet see.**