MALYKA: TWENTY YEARS AGO
He sends her sprawling across the room and another hit reverberates through the floorboards. She told me not to scream, to stay very quiet, but I can’t help it. As I hear Mommy’s head hit the wall with a cr*ck, a wail escapes me.
He’s going to find me now, but I don’t care, I have to help her. I abandon the safety of my hiding spot and dart for her. Throwing my tiny arms around her, as if I could shield her from him.
“Mommy! Mommy!” I yell, but there is blood on her head and her eyes are closed. I let out a scream that I know will make him furious. He grabs me by the hair, dragging me away from her. I try to get out of his grip, but it's no use.
“Shut up.” He snarls as he throws me onto the couch.
“Please, please, Daddy.” I beg, wailing freely now.
“Go to you
