Chapter Two: The Whisper Of Escape
325 Words
Ayaan’s heart pounded as she sat frozen on the mat, the sharp blade just inches away. The women murmured words of encouragement, mistaking her fear for hesitation. But deep inside, she was not hesitating—she was planning.
A loud cry from the girl beside her, Hodan, snapped Ayaan back to reality. Blood stained the ground. The sight made her stomach churn, but it also solidified her decision. She could not let this happen to her.
Abaayo Xaliimo gave her a stern look. “Jiifso, Ayaan,” she ordered. Lie down, Ayaan.
Ayaan looked around. The women encircled her like vultures, their hands ready to hold her down. The village elder, Ugas Abdi, stood nearby, watching in silent approval. She knew what would happen if she fought. But she also knew what would happen if she did nothing.
Suddenly, a voice whispered behind her. “Orad, Ayaan! Orad hadda!” Run, Ayaan! Run now!
Ayaan’s eyes darted to Hassan, the young schoolteacher who had always told her she was meant for something greater. He stood just outside the crowd, his gaze urgent. She swallowed hard. This was her chance.
With a deep breath, she did the only thing she could—she ran.
Gasps erupted from the women as she shoved past them, sprinting barefoot through the sand. Shouts followed, angry and confused.
“Qabta! Ha cararin!” someone yelled. Catch her! Don’t let her run!
But Ayaan didn’t look back.
She ran past the huts, past the watching eyes of stunned villagers. She knew where she needed to go—the forest on the outskirts, where she and Safiyo had once hidden while playing. If she could make it there, she might have a chance.
Behind her, the sound of pounding footsteps grew closer. Someone was chasing her.
“Ayaan!istag!” Ayaan! Stop!
Fear clawed at her chest, but she pushed forward, her legs burning as she ran for her life.
For her freedom.
- Writer
