tense, was suddenly filled with people and loud music. My parents threw him a massive party, the k

Alex!" banner was strung across the living room wall, right over the spot where my shattered

the new car, "was an early birthday present. My parents know how to treat a s

Only the best for my boy," he said loudly, for everyone

she looked at Alex with an expression of pure, unconditional love. It was a look I had

my birthday morning, they gave me a set of encyclopedias instead. "It's more practical, Ethan," my father had said. "It will help you with your schoolwork." Later t

ying to erase. I tried to scream, to rage, to tell them what a monster they were celebrating. But my voice was gone, my body w

It was Coach Thompson. He looked uncomfortable in

you, but I'm really getting worried about Ethan. He's not answering my calls o

my father's face. "He's fine, C

bout that internship. And he promised he'd help me with the juni

to sprout in my parents. My mother's smile faltered

avily. "Mom... Dad... I think... I think I'm having a panic attack," he wheezed, his eyes wide wi

parents rushed to Alex's side, their brief w

other cooed, guiding him to th

lex sobbed. "I made Et

r said, his voice a soothing rumble. "I

y and disgust, before turning and leaving without another word. The door clicked shut, severing my last connection to someone who actually cared. My