FAMILY FEUDS

There are so many emotions surfacing when I hear the word "family." Happiness? Gratefulness? No. Disqust? Sadness? Despair? Yes, one hundred percent, yes. Do I feel a sense of guilt when these emotions arise? Yes. Do I wish things were different? Definitely, yes. I've asked myself before, "To what length should one go for family?" When is enough enough? Those are the questions that cause me difficult days and restless nights. I know what the truth is, and it is terrifying. I ran as fast as my legs could carry me. "Come on, come on!" I shouted to myself. My lungs are burning, and I feel nauseous. Outside, it's pitch black; only the stars and the moon light my way to the tool shed. I crouch behind the tool shed, waiting and trying to control my breathing. I look at the house and focus on the windows. I don't see anything, but my mind is restless. They could be watching me right now... "Get a grip!" I hiss at myself. "Panicking won't get us anywhere." Silently, I move forward, one foot at a time. I felt the hard wood of the shed scratch my back as I pressed against it. I make myself small. "Just a few more steps, Emily." I think to myself. Then I heard it... Click. "Everything will be fine, honey, you don't have to worry, she's..." "It's not fine, Edward! We'll never be a family, NEVER!" my mother screamed as she locked the door to the shed. I heard their footsteps, held my breath, and listened. Nothing... As the opportunity presented itself, I began to move quietly. I'm slowly making progress and peered around the corner. The door of the shed was just an arm's length away. I moved forward and then felt a bony hand on my shoulder. My body froze in place as panic set in. I turned my head, and my eyes met his. "We've been looking everywhere for you, darling," my father said with a sinister smile...