Teenage Feelings

Sitting at her desk, Anim stared at the open notebook in front of her. The words she had written earlier—I deserve to be happy too—stared back at her, almost mocking. Did she really believe that? Could she ever make her parents understand?

She picked up her pen and started writing.

Dear Mom and Dad,

I know you want the best for me. I know you think that pushing me harder will make me stronger, more successful. But all it's doing is making me tired. I'm not just a student. I'm your daughter. And I need more than grades to feel like I matter.

She paused, her fingers trembling. Would they even read this? Would they even try to understand?

Before she could decide, her phone lit up with a message from Ayera.

Ayera: You okay?

Anim wiped away a tear she hadn't realized had fallen.

No. But I will be.

And with that, she folded the letter, tucking it away. Maybe she wasn't ready to hand it over yet. But one day, she would be. One day, they would hear her.

Days passed, and the letter remained hidden in Anim's drawer. She didn't have the courage to hand it over. But one evening, while she was out at school, her mother found it while tidying up. She sat on Anim's bed, the paper trembling in her hands as she read every word.

By the time Anim returned home, she found her mother sitting quietly, the letter beside her. "You wrote this?" she asked softly.

Anim's heart pounded. She nodded, unsure of what would come next.

For the first time, her mother didn't have a lecture ready. Instead, she looked at Anim with something different in her eyes—understanding. Regret.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Anim swallowed. "I tried. But you never listened."

Her mother closed her eyes, exhaling shakily. "We only wanted you to be strong, to succeed. We never realized… we were making you feel this way."

A lump formed in Anim's throat. "I just want to be happy too, Mom."

Her mother reached out, pulling her into a hug. "I hear you now, Anim. And I'm sorry."

As they sat there in silence, the door creaked open. Her father stood there, his face unreadable, holding the letter. Behind him, her younger brother peeked in, confusion written all over his face. Her father's voice, usually firm and full of authority, was quieter this time. "I read it too."

Anim stiffened. Was he angry? Disappointed?

But instead, he sighed, rubbing his temple. "I didn't realize… I was being too harsh. I thought I was doing the right thing, pushing you to be strong. But I see now that I was only making you feel trapped."

Her brother stepped forward hesitantly. "Does this mean Ani doesn't have to study all the time anymore?" he asked innocently.

A small, teary laugh escaped Anim's lips. Her father gave a tired smile. "No, she still has to study. But maybe we all need to learn to listen better."

And for the first time, Anim felt heard.