(Livia)
I read my father's message again before placing my phone on the bed. He was threatening my mother because I refused to obey him. I didn't know what papers he wanted me to sign. Whatever they contained, I wasn't agreeing to anything without reading them.
I called my mother, but she didn't answer. I tried again and waited until the call ended. Then I sent her a message asking whether she was safe. I received no response.
I went to the bathroom down the hallway and examined my cheek in the mirror. The redness was still visible where Julian had slapped me. I had never imagined my husband would raise his hand against me. Now I knew he was capable of doing it again.
I took a photograph of my face with my phone. Then I sent it to Rachel before I could change my mind. She called immedi
