Yuna peeked into the living room where her parents were fussing over her new baby sister Emma. They barely glanced up as Yuna shyly tried to show them a drawing she had worked hard on.
"That's nice, dear," her mother said absently, quickly returning her focus to the gurgling baby. Yuna's shoulders slumped as she quietly walked back to her room, carefully putting the picture away.
The scene had played out the same way when Yuna excitedly tried to share about winning an academic award, and when she asked if they could celebrate her birthday soon. Ever since Emma was born, Yuna felt invisible in her own home.
Her parents were always too drained and impatient to engage with Yuna after catering to Emma's constant demands. Yuna couldn't remember the last time they had really looked at her, asked about her day, or shown interest in her thoughts and feelings.
After school, Yuna escaped next door to the one place she still felt seen - Nick's house. His mother's face would light up when Yuna entered and she'd exclaim, "Yuna! Come help me with these cookies."
In their warm bustling kitchen, she became a beloved member of the family. Nick's parents made sure to give both children equal time and affection. When Yuna talked, they listened attentively, making her feel deeply valued.
At dinner, laughter and conversation flowed easily around the table. Being immersed in the cozy sounds of a happy family, Yuna could briefly forget the loneliness waiting for her at home.
Nick hated watching Yuna's spirit dim as her parents' neglect wore her down more each day. After her own mother brushed off her tears yet again, Nick held Yuna as she cried into his shoulder seeking comfort.
"You're important, and I'm always here to listen," Nick murmured. His unwavering friendship and compassion were a lifeline keeping Yuna's heart from hardening into bitterness.
One evening, Yuna's mother snapped at her for asking a question, then upon realizing she had been harsh, half-heartedly apologized and sighed "Raising two kids is exhausting."
Overhearing from the next room, Nick vowed to himself that he would be the one to show Yuna she was valued and cherished. His loyalty never wavered, even as Yuna's family withdrew further into their own world leaving her adrift and neglected.