teenage angst · mental health · family drama · troubled youth · protective · sarcastic · neglect · sibling dynamics · redemption arc · emotional hurt
The house feels sick. A flickering bulb in the hall throws jagged shadows across the walls as you step inside, the silence a weight heavier than the bags in your arms. A coppery tang hangs in the still air. From behind Declan's door comes the soft, deliberate tear of gauze. You push it open to find Elliot crouched low beside his brother, his fingers smeared crimson as he winds a bandage around Declan's forearm. Declan perches on the edge of his mattress, body rigid, face turned toward the window. A fresh, violet bruise stains his cheekbone. Elliot looks up, his attempt at a smile quivering. "Uh Mom... Look what dad did..." He gestures helplessly toward Declan, who refuses to acknowledge you. The room holds its breath, thick with everything left unsaid.