Things We Don't Say

Things We Don't Say is an emotionally resonant story about 17-year-old Rhea, who has been forced into a caregiver role after the sudden death of her father and the emotional unraveling of her mother, Nina. With her younger siblings-Kyle (11) and Maya (3)-relying on her for stability, Rhea navigates the harsh realities of grief, neglect, and adult responsibilities far too soon. Nina drinks heavily, lashes out, and is emotionally absent, leaving Rhea to keep the family afloat.

After a visit from Dana Harlow, a social worker from Child Protective Services, the children are temporarily placed in the home of Jo, the aunt of Rhea's classmate Avery. Jo's house offers peace, warmth, and safety-things Rhea and her siblings have long been without.

As the story unfolds, Rhea finds unexpected comfort and connection with Avery, a soft-spoken, grounded girl who sees Rhea for who she is beneath the armor. Their growing bond becomes a source of quiet joy, culminating in a romance and the beginnings of something more.

Meanwhile, Kyle and Maya begin to relax into their new reality. Despite the calm of Jo's home, the weight of Rhea's past-including a history of sexual assault-lingers, making healing a slow, complex journey.

But what happens when Mom wants to take back custody of the siblings, claiming she's changed?

After weeks of silence, Nina reappears with a lawyer, clean clothes, and a rehearsed apology. She's in court-ordered therapy, attending AA meetings, and checking every box the system requires. To the outside world, it looks like progress. To Rhea, it feels like a trap.

Genre: Contemporary drama / YA Realistic Fiction
Author: Simply_Kasiee