Today, I wake up with zero hope or faith in my redemption.
A new day, a new suffering.
I open my eyes, greeted by the same dreary cell walls that have imprisoned me for what feels like an eternity. My body aches from the latest round of torments inflicted by Chavo's men, but the pain has become an old, familiar companion at this point.
As I stir, I catch sight of Ava huddled in the corner, her slight frame trembling faintly. The poor girl hasn't spoken a word since they dragged her back in here yesterday, eyes hollow and distant. Seeing her in such a state rips open fresh wounds in my heart.
"Ava?" I rasp out, my voice little more than a throaty croak after the abuse. "It's me, little one. I'm still here."
She doesn't respond, doesn't even seem to register my words. Just stares blan
