Flashbacks

"The sound of screeching tires still haunted her dreams. Every night, it was the same—the blinding headlights, her mother's scream, and the shattering of glass. Helena bolted upright in her bed, her breath coming in gasps. For a moment, she forgot where she was. Then the familiar, suffocating darkness of her tiny room brought reality crashing back.

Her fingers found the photo on the nightstand. She traced the edges of her parents' faces, trying to recall the warmth of their voices. But each day, the memories faded a little more."

As Helena looks at the photo of her parents, she remembers the day of the accident and how her life changed forever.

The night of the accident played out in Helena's mind like a horror movie on repeat. She remembered the screeching tires, the deafening crash, and the smell of burning rubber. And then, nothing but darkness.

When she woke up in the hospital, Aunt Agatha was by her side, her face etched with concern. "Don't worry, dear. You're safe now," she said softly, squeezing Helena's hand.

However, as soon as Helena moved into Aunt Agatha's home, things changed. Aunt Agatha's once warm demeanor turned cold and dismissive. She criticized Helena's every move, from the way she dressed to the way she spoke.

Despite Aunt Agatha's cruel treatment, Helena's uncle was a source of warmth and kindness in her life. He would sneak her treats when Aunt Agatha wasn't looking and spend hours playing games with her.

But when he passed away unexpectedly, Helena's world was turned upside down once again. Aunt Agatha became even more critical and harsh, blaming Helena for her husband's death.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth took every opportunity to taunt and belittle Helena, making her feel even more isolated and alone.