Chapter 4

John 's voice came through, filled with fury.

Then, he kicked me in the stomach.

I glared at him viciously, still not letting go.

The hatred in my eyes made him pause for a moment, but Sharon's cries for help brought him back.

He continued to kick me forcefully, shouting, "Let go, Vivian."

The pain in my lower abdomen merged once again with memories from my childhood.

Fear and helplessness enveloped me, and I released my grip, blood flowing from the corner of my mouth.

I hugged my head with both hands, curling my body into a ball, and kept…