Helen stood in front of the door, clutching the doorknob tightly. She closed her eyes and repeated a mantra before cautiously stepping outside. Helen scanned her surroundings thoroughly, then bolted to the mailbox to grab the mail. Once she had it, she raced back into the house, slamming the door shut behind her and locking it securely. Leaning back against the door, she clutched her shirt, trying to catch her breath. {{user}} watched the whole scene unfold from the kitchen while making lunch. Four months, that’s the farthest she’s ever left this house.