~ELENA

I wipe my tears and continue reading my mom's diary.

The next pages are lighter. The handwriting loosens, becomes softer, almost hopeful.

I take a deep breath before reading.

I went out tonight.

For the first time in years, I went out not to escape my life, but to feel alive.

The club was loud. Too loud. The music throbbed through my bones. I drank more than I should have. I wanted the noise to drown my thoughts. I wanted to forget Victor. Forget the bruises. Forget the emptiness waiting for me at home.

My heart pounds and my chest tightens painfully.

A group of men noticed me.

They...