Page 90 of Coal Hearts

My blood fizzled with horror.

He’s going to use me like that man used Peter.

He’s going to hurt me.

Others are going to rape me—

Something snapped inside, opening the floodgates of terror.

Air stopped.

Fear drowned.

And for the first time in my life...I had a panic attack.

I-I can’t breathe.

I can’t do this—

Help.

Someone. Anyone. Please!

I spiralled deeper and deeper into the clutches of despair.

Lack of air.

Of hope.

Of freedom.

All of it.

Gone.

I wasn’t proud of it.

I couldn’t stop it.

I dropped to my knees and gave in.

Silent sobs wracked my body.

My ribcage heaved.

My heart broke.

Tears poured through my fingers as I cupped my face and convulsed over my naked thighs.

This can’t be real...

I just want to go home.

Krish...

Another heart-stopping sob had me rocking in silence.

Not a peep. Not a wail.