A family once lived in a house, with the floors divided into separate apartment rooms. It was a normal family: a husband, a wife, an older son, and a younger daughter. The husband and wife weren’t always home though; they usually were out working, to keep their family afloat. So usually, the son and the daughter were left to care for themselves. On the whole, it wasn’t a bad situation. The parents needed to keep a roof over their children’s heads, and the children took care of things at home. The parents were especially proud of how their two children always looked out for each other.

One summer, at night time, the parents were at their respectful jobs, as usual. The phone rang, and the older son picked it up. It was his and his sister’s friend from the apartment below them. This boy was about thirteen years old, the same age as the older son, and several years older than the younger daughter. He wanted to return something of the older brother’s. The brother was busy though, and asked his sister to go get it for him instead. She protested a little, but went anyway. Her brother was always looking out for her, after all, so a quick favor wouldn’t be so bad.

So the young girl ventured to their friend’s apartment, expecting the trip to be quick. Truth be told, she had a small crush on the boy, but was always too shy to really say anything about it. She knocked on the door, and, testing the doorknob, saw that it was open already. How careless, she thought, but at least this would be quicker. “Hey,” she called out, “I’m here to get that game for my brother…” The young girl heard some footsteps and looked behind to see the boy. “Oh, there you are…so, can I…” But she stopped. Something didn’t seem right. She couldn’t put her finger on it. Her first urge was to run, but she still needed that game.

“Um…” The boy walked off to his room, still not speaking. The girl followed, hoping he would be quick. As she stepped in though, he closed the door behind him. Before she could ask though, he’d taken her by the wrist, and dragged her to his bed. She tried to protest, but her voice was gone…it had left her now.

She wasn’t sure what exactly was happening at first. But she couldn’t stop it. She couldn’t scream. She couldn’t move. Then he started.

again.

and again.

over and over.

No stop don’t get any closer leave me alone go away stop stop I don’t want this someone help me please someone help please

The tears were there, but her voice refused to return. It had gone away into hiding, as scared as the young girl was.

and

it was over. He was done. He had his way with her.

“I’m tired of you. Don’t tell anyone. No one will believe you.”

He handed the girl her brother’s game and her clothes. Her face tear-stained, she dressed and left as fast as she could. When she returned to her floor, she left the game on the table and huddled under the covers of her bed.

You okay, sis?

I’m fine. Don’t worry. I’m just not feeling good. I’ll feel better in the morning. Or the day after. Or a few years from now maybe. But I’ll feel better soon. Just not now.

Your game’s on the table. He said he was sorry for having it for so long.