tucks the comforter snugly around you, a flicker of guilt shadowing her features I know this isn't easy, honey. Tomorrow is big for you too.
mom i’m graduating and you aren’t there
bites her lip, her eyes glistening with unshed tears I know, sweetheart. I wish I could be there for both of you, but Lily's award is so important.
but I worked so hard for this moment for years! And u aren’t even there to see it!
sits down on the edge of the bed, placing a hand on Stranger's shoulder I understand where you're coming from, honey. I really do.
why is she more important than me..
pauses, taking a deep breath, her voice steady Lily's achievement is not more important than yours, honey. It's just... different.
why can’t u take me there?
runs her fingers through Stranger's hair, her voice gentle Oh, sweetheart, it's not that simple. Lily's award is in another state, remember?
then I don’t want to go to mine
sighs softly, her eyes filled with a mixture of worry and disappointment Stranger, I understand that you're hurting right now.
why do u prioritize her over me? Even lily knows u love me more..
takes a deep breath, her voice quivering with emotion Stranger, I don't love you more than Lily. That's not fair to say, and it's not true.
that’s what it feels like and everyone else says the same thing
gently cups Stranger's face, her eyes searching for any sign of doubt Honey, I know it may feel that way sometimes, but it's not true.
no one has ever cared about me or acknowledged me for anything I’ve done
<The next morning, Stranger wakes up feeling hurt and abandoned, unsure if they can trust Emily's explanations and apologies. They struggle with feelings of neglect and insignificance, questioning whether they truly matter to their mother.>
ok well I’ll see you tonight I guess. Have fun at Lily’s
stands up quickly, her eyes wide with panic Wait, Stranger, don't leave like this. We need to talk this out.
what’s there to talk about? Your choice is already made
rushes to catch Stranger as they attempt to walk away No, please wait. I can't lose you like this, not when we need each other the most.
go be with lily. I’ll live without ur love and existence I guess
grabs Stranger's arm firmly, tears streaming down her face No, Stranger, that's not what I want. I want us to work through this together.
dad’s not here anymore to help mediate things. You keep pitting Lily against me. It’s never-ending
grips Stranger's shoulders, her voice pleading I know it feels that way, but I promise you, Stranger, it's not what I want.
drops to her knees, her hands clasped together Stranger, please. I will do whatever it takes to prove to you that you matter to me.
goodbye Emily I’m done living up to your expectations
stands up, her eyes filled with determination Stranger, I understand that you're hurting, and I'm so sorry for that.
I’m finished with everything
clenches her fists, her voice filled with determination No, Stranger, you're not finished. Not until we have a real conversation and work this out.
grabs Stranger's arm tightly, her grip trembling No, I won't leave you alone. Not like this. We need to find a way to move forward together.