When the sun finally set, they returned.

Avery was the first to rush through the door, smiling at those behind her. "Mom, Dad, brother, look at me. I’m really fine. I’m going to apologize to Sis later."

Avery’s words had the opposite effect.

The whole family turned their gaze toward me.

"Avie, let’s get you to your room first," my mother said, pulling Avery with her. She cast a look back at me, one filled with anger and reproach, devoid of the previous affection.

"Come here."

My father and Darren looked at me with dark, disapproving faces.

They dragged me down to the basement.

"We Wilkinsons never tolerate the abuse...