Because of His Love

Another day I look in the mirror before a shower. Another day all I can see are the bruises he left once again. I think the only part of my body that he hasn't hit is my face. I know mom and dad will see marks there. I've tried telling them how he treats me once before now. They didn't believe me. They never believe me. What the hell am I supposed to do when it's my own brother who hurts me? I figure it doesn't even matter to my parents. s**t, I don't matter to my parents. I begin to hope that one day Tyler goes too far and he ends up killing me. Maybe he won't be mom and dad's golden child after that. It's only a fleeting hope, though. I have too much else to care about for my life to end at the hands of my wicked brother. I let the warm water pepper my body in the shower. Some of the fresher bruises sting like mad when the water touches my skin. I can't get out. I need a shower. I lather my soap across my skin the best I can without putting pressure on the new contusions. I feel the tears slip down my cheeks. It's safe to cry in here. I won't cry in front of Tyler. He will see it and know he has the power to hurt me emotionally as well as just the physical. I finish up and dry my body. It's July, but still I dress in a long sleeve shirt and a pair of leggings. They're the most comfortable clothing I own that doesn't feel like dead weight against my bruised skin. I try to brush my shoulder length black hair only to pull out clumps of my hair. Not only does he hit me, he pulls my hair. Some of it is falling out. I feel ready to face the day. So I leave the safety of the bathroom. I cross the hall to open the convenience store my landlord has in the building. It's open to residents and the public. I silently thank God for air conditioning. Otherwise, my choice of attire would have me sweating to death.