My Uncle… Or Something More?
toxic
Elena steps into the apartment, setting her bag down carefully.
margaret (step mom of fl)
Finally home. Took you long enough. First day, huh? Bet you were too scared to talk to anyone.
Elena Carter(fl)
…It was fine.
margaret (step mom of fl)
Smiles too wide Oh, I’m sure. Just… make an effort next time. You don’t want to look like a complete loser, do you?
Victoria leans against the doorway, arms crossed, smirking.
victoria(fl half sister)
Wow. big sigh First day over and you already look exhausted. Clutching your books like a little baby
Elena Carter(fl)
I’m not tired.
margaret (step mom of fl)
Sure you’re not. You’re always hiding behind something. When will you stop being so… invisible?
Margaret pours herself a cup of tea, glancing at Elena with a raised eyebrow.
margaret (step mom of fl)
You really should smile more. People won’t notice you otherwise. And, Elena… don’t let that shyness fool anyone. There are lessons to be learned about… interaction.
Elena Carter(fl)
Don’t need lessons.
margaret (step mom of fl)
Predictable, as always. Quiet, obedient… never daring. How boring. You really need to loosen up. Or maybe… I should help you. laughs softly
Elena Carter(fl)
Don’t want your help.
victoria(fl half sister)
Don’t be rude. You’re home now, darling. Try to be… pleasant.
Victoria snickers, sitting on the sofa and picking at her nails
victoria(fl half sister)
Pleasant? mock gasp That’s rich coming from her. Honestly, Elena… you make it so easy to tease you. Just a little comment, and you blush immediately. Hilarious.
Elena Carter(fl)
I’m not blushing.
Margaret leans forward slightly, voice soft but cutting.
margaret (step mom of fl)
You know, it’s good to be quiet. But sometimes… being quiet isn’t enough. People like you have to earn respect. Don’t forget that.
Victoria rolls her eyes, smirking at Margaret’s little lecture.
victoria(fl half sister)
Relax, Mom. She’ll figure it out… eventually. glances at Elena Maybe not today though. Poor thing.
Elena takes her notebook out, trying to focus on something other than their eyes and their teasing.
victoria(fl half sister)
So… first day impressions? Did anyone notice you? Did you even talk to anyone?
Elena Carter(fl)
…Not really. Just classmates.
victoria(fl half sister)
Snickers Bet they did notice. They always notice… even if she won’t admit it. Right, Elena?
Elena Carter(fl)
I’m fine.
Margaret stands, smoothing her blouse, giving Elena a sharp look.
margaret (step mom of fl)
Make sure you eat properly tonight. You don’t want to look weak tomorrow. And remember… being quiet is fine, but don’t let it make you invisible.
Victoria leans back on the sofa, scrolling on her phone, eyes glancing at Elena.
victoria(fl half sister)
Honestly, Elena… you could learn a lot if you just opened up. But maybe… some things are better left hidden. smirks
(thinking): Same as always… Margaret with her thinly veiled insults, Victoria laughing at every little thing I do. Typical night.
Elena Carter(fl)
But I survived university today… I can survive tonight too.
The apartment is filled with light clinks of cutlery and low murmurs, but everything feels tense. Elena keeps her head down, quietly eating, lost in her thoughts.
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