The world tilted. My breath caught, sharp and painful in my chest. Shock, cold and heavy, settled over me, making my limbs feel like lead. I stared at them, my parents. Always surprising me because just when I think they can't go any lower in hurting me they make sure that they break that record.
“No,” I whispered, the sound raw and fragile. It was barely a breath. “This… this isn’t real. Is this some kind of joke?” l wanted them to tell me it was all a terrible, cruel prank. “Because if it is, it’s not funny. It's really not funny.”
My mother took a step closer. Her hand was trembling slightly.as she reached out towards me, a silent offer of comfort. The thought of her touch, after what they had just said, sent a shiver of revulsion down my spine.
“Don’t!” I choked out, recoiling sharp
