And still… this?
I swallowed hard. “Mom,” I whispered, lowering my head. “Put down the knife. Please. I promise to go. And yes… you can come with me if that will make you feel better.”
She eyed me with suspicion, her voice harsh. “You won’t go back on your word?”
A heavy sigh slipped from my lips, my shoulders dropping. “I promise. I’ll go. I’ll get ready now.”
My mom didn’t move at first. She still held the knife close, her eyes fixed on me like I might try to run. Only when I walked slowly toward my room did she finally step aside, giving me space but never lowering her guard.
I shook my head as I passed her. My throat ached with unspoken words. What could I even say? She wouldn’t believe me unless I showed her. So I went inside and prepared.
I bathed slowly, letting the cool water
