LAYLA
As everyone sings happy birthday to me, I can still feel the sticky remainder of what Knox did smeared on the inside of my thighs. Then I see him across the room, and our eyes lock. As the night has gone on, Knox has become tense. It may have been years since I've seen him last, but I still feel in tune with him in a lot of ways. It worries me because I know at times he can have a temper and be vengeful. He's always been protective over me, even with our own parents.
My brother isn't a young boy anymore. He's a man, and I don't think my father can control him. I never know what Knox might do. He is as unpredictable as ever.
I lean down and blow out my candles, making a wish. This year is different because Knox is finally back, and things are going to change. For the first time in
