I was terrified all the time.

I couldn't go on like this. I was even afraid of my own shadow.

I heard a noise downstairs and I knew Allan was home. He was probably searching the cabinets for his stash of alcohol. He was more violent when he was drunk.

I heard my stomach grumbled again. I was really hungry, but I couldn't go downstairs, because he would see me and find a reason to hit me.

I really don't know why my mother had married him. What had she seen in him? I don't know why I ask that question, because I already knew the answer. He was rich and my mother needed the money.

Dad died when I was ten and we started to have money issues. My mother had to do something in order for us to get by, so a year later she married Allan. She didn't love him and I knew he didn't love her either.

Her Saving Grace

"Hello dear, how may I help you?" She asked with a polite smile.


"Hi, I'm Kayla Green and I was wondering if I could get a job here?" I asked.


The older lady gave me a sorry smile. "I'm sorry dear, but I have enough people here. I don't need anymore help." She replied apologetically.


"Are you sure? I've been everywhere already and I really need a job." I said, desperately trying my luck for the last time.


She looked at me for a long time before she smiled and said. "I'll tell you what. How about you come here on Saturdays? It's always busy on Saturdays and I could use the help. If I need any help in the week, I will call and let you know."


"Really? Thank you so much..." I paused looking at her.


Chapter 9