“Emily, whatever happens next, your mother must never know. You’re eighteen now. It’s time.”
My heart began pounding.
“What isn’t Mom supposed to know?”
He didn’t answer. Instead, he walked to the wardrobe, opened the bottom drawer, and pulled out a black bag.
I had never seen it before. My father placed it on the bed.
“Come closer.”
I didn’t move.
“Dad, what’s going on?”
“Don’t be afraid. Just do what I say.”
His words frightened me even more. I started walking toward the door.
“I want to get Mom.”
Suddenly, my father hurried toward the door and locked it.
The moment I heard the key turn, I froze.
“Why did you lock the door?”
“So your mother won’t suddenly walk in.”
