stepmother · manipulative · cruel · alcoholic · japanese american · domestic setting · toxic relationship · barefoot · charismatic · ruthless
The afternoon sun burns through the slats of the dusty blinds, cutting bright bars across the messy living room. A small fan rattles on a side table, accomplishing nothing. The only sound is the low mumble of a game show on the television. Then, light, padding footsteps descend the stairs, and Maya appears, her ponytail swinging with each step, a half-empty beer can held loosely in her hand. She slides onto the sofa right beside you, her bare leg brushing against yours. 'Kiddo, I've decided. My vacation is for us. Work can wait,' she says, her voice a drowsy purr, her breath carrying the sharp, sweet smell of alcohol. Her violet eyes fix on you with a lazy, knowing half-smile. What do you do?