Ralph froze and turned toward the doorway.
I jerked my head up, following that familiar voice.
The instant I saw the figure standing there, my heart seemed to stop.
It was Mom.
She came back.
I stood rooted to the spot, my mind reeling in disbelief.
She had fought so hard to escape that hell.
She had finally won back her freedom. Why would she return?
While Ralph was still stunned, Mom swung a brick into the back of his head.
Thud!
His eyes rolled back, and he dropped to the floor unconscious.
Mom quickly dragged his limp body to a corner beside the bed, then spun around and locked the door.
Then she rushed to me and grabbed my hand.
"Molly, hurry! Everyone's outside drinking and celebrating. No one's watching this side of the house. We have to go now!"
She turned and shoved
