As the basement door groaned open, the morning light flooded the darkness sharply striking my eyes. I lifted my shaking arm to shield them. My entire body felt weighted as if I had ingested rocks. I forced myself to sit up. My legs shook under me.Mom stood at the stair landing, arms folded wearing the look she always gave me: disdain.“Leave " she barked.Her tone lacked any warmth. No sympathy. Not even irritation this time. Just impatience, as if I were a parasite.I attempted to rise. My knees gave way. I staggered ahead. Grabbed the railing breathing unevenly, my ribs aching intensely. My mouth had a parched flavor and every inch of me felt tender, bruised, or aflame.Upon arriving at the stairs, Mom scrutinized me with a scowl. My garments, my dirt-covered skin, the recent whip wounds still visible, on my back.“You, good-for-nothing" she sneered. "Perhaps next time you won’t peddle your pathetic self at a nightclub.”Her speech struck sharply, than any lash ever could.A part o
Last Updated : 2025-12-12 Read more