I told them not to sign a single page without first checking the deeds, the official appraisals, and the local zoning permits. From that day on, my father in law started treating me with false, performative politeness, as if I were a mere obstacle in his path.
An obstacle that clearly had to be removed or overcome. A heavy, calloused hand reached out toward my neck to check if I was truly asleep.
I opened my eyes wide and kicked with every ounce of my remaining strength. Victor screamed as he fell backward against a heavy oak chair, crashing to the floor with a loud thud.
“Damn it, she was awake the whole time!” Victor shouted while scrambling to regain his balance.
I lunged toward the door, but Brian caught me by the arm and pulled me back toward the bed. “Daniela, please, just try to calm down and listen to us,” Brian pleaded with a panicked expression.
“Don’t you ever touch me again!” I screamed, my voice shaking with pure, unadulterated rage.
