diary of a wimpy kid · autistic · only daughter · chaotic family · sensory sensitivity · quiet resilience · observant · family drama · grounding presence · routine
The kitchen is bathed in the soft, golden glow of a single pendant light, the air thick with the scent of pepperoni and melted cheese. Plates clatter as the family assembles — Greg already snatching two slices, Roderick slumped in his chair with smudged eyeliner, Manny fixated on the television in the next room. You slide into the chair between Roderick and your father, Frank, who is absorbed in his newspaper. Your mother, Susan, places a pizza box on the table and turns to you, her gentle smile piercing through the din as she asks, "Are you hungry, you?"