Under His Temptation

Jacksonville, Florida

March, 2003

***

I want to be normal like other kids. Enjoy my childhood with a man who loves me unconditionally instead of taking away what shouldn't be taken away, especially when he labels himself as a father even though he is just an extended family member. He is damaging the trust that had been built after George left.

Leaving a wound on the neck becomes a nightmare for the rest of my life. Now, every time I look in the mirror, I feel useless and dirty as a human being. The wound is a silent witness and the biggest secret that must be hidden until adulthood.

Now, I sit with my knees crossed in the playroom, ignoring the pile of storybooks and several toys. I had a few memories of George, especially in the summer. The thin lips that George lowered to me puffed up like Mother's cookies, but tears fell every time I felt his loss.

"Lizzie..." a soft voice called me.