Chapter 353

  My body goes into temporary shock from the fear and I can’t move, his rough hands painfully and cruelly grope my breasts from behind as he keeps me pinned against the wall immobile.

  My mind races back to the desolate horror of my teenage assault and the way he exerted power over me in Chicago. My body trembling, involuntarily, and my mind constantly racing to the miracle inside of me and my maternal need to protect it against all odds. This isn’t just about me anymore; I need to find the strength to save my child from what I know is coming.