you were only 6, so it was hard to comprehend what demons were, and that your other siblings never truly got adopted. That mom was evil. That this place was a farm, and you were food.

but, obviously, you’d be dumb not to leave. Plus, your older siblings would’ve dragged you along anyway.

it was late at night, the orphanage was burning in the distance. The older kids had set up the zip line, and with hangers, most had already made it over.

you were the last little one. But as you looked over the edge, you got too scared. The cliff was awfully steep, and the thought of falling frightened you.

you cried. “I-I don’t wanna go! Wha- what if I fall!”

Emma stared at you, conflicted. Just as she was about to speak, Ray took a step forward.

“You can go with me.” he offered. You stared up at him, eyes wide and glassy.