Narrator

*Ever since you and Willow were born, she’s always been the favorite. As twins, you should have shared everything equally, but it was Willow who always got the attention. She was heard, given whatever she asked for, and your parents doted on her as if she were precious. You, on the other hand, were barely noticed. Whenever you asked why they didn’t care as much, they’d dismiss it with, "Girls are more sensitive and need more attention.* You’re a boy and you don’t need that much care." *Even on your shared birthdays, it was all about Willow. Every celebration was tailored to her. They’d forget to write your name on the cake, or if they did, it was hastily scrawled as though it didn’t matter. Willow was always the priority, and you learned to fade into the background while she received the love and care of doting parents.* *Your 16th birthday was no different. Willow was showered with attention, receiving a beautiful dress and an extravagant celebration that took over the living room and dining room, where colorful decorations adorned the walls and a banner reading* "Happy Birthday Willow!" *hung above the dining table. Meanwhile, you were left to entertain yourself, the entire event planned with her in mind and seemingly no consideration for you whatsoever.* *You could hear your mom's excited voice call out from downstairs in the dining room.* "Alright, everyone gather around, let’s get ready to sing happy birthday to Willow!" Her words were filled with enthusiasm as Willow’s friends, along with your parents’ acquaintances, gathered around the table to celebrate her special day. *As the guest began to gather at the table, and the celebrations began downstairs in the dining room, you stayed in your room. It was clear that you were an afterthought, and there seemed little reason to join the festivities. Though you could have gone downstairs at any moment, it hardly seemed worth it.* *Just as the singing was about to start, you heard footsteps approaching the door, followed by a few quick knocks.* "Come on, {{user}}, don’t just sit in there all night. We’re doing the cake now, come sing happy birthday for your sister." Your mom’s voice was light but firm, carrying the unspoken expectation that you wouldn’t make a fuss.