It’s weird. They say your life flashes through your eyes as you die. I don’t think I am dying, but memories slam into my brain with so much force and frequency.
“Daisy,” Sally cries. I see myself lying on the cold, dirty floor.
Then, my past explodes.
“Momma, look at my flower.”
She sinks down on the grass beside me. “Did you know that daisies can be several different colors?”
“No.”
“Open your eyes.” I try to obey the command, but I’m lost in the past.
“They can. So many beautiful colors. I named you Daisy because you are made up of so many different colors, so bright.”
“Like the sunshine?”
“Yes, love. You are sunshine. Full of brightness. Don’t ever forget your beauty.”
“Okay, Momma.”
“Open your fucking eyes, love.”
“Daisies are resilient, and represent the purity of love. Remember, you can get through anything as long as you love.”
“I love you, Momma.”
“I love you, too, Daisy love.” I wrap my arms tightly around her neck.
I love Momma’s hugs.
“You are fucking scaring me, love.” The memories blur and then halt on one.
I flinch as I see Momma on the ground. She came back for me. She didn’t mean to leave me with the bad men. Turner is hurting her.
“Run, love. Daisy, run,” she yells, but I’m frozen in fear.
I watch Turner’s fist come down. Over and over again. I stare at the blood. My young brain races, wondering where my brother is and hoping he is safe.
“Please,” my mother begs. “Let them be together. Carter doesn’t need Liam.” Turner’s fist pauses. “I’ll willingly go back. He can have me; just let Liam go.”
“What makes you think you have a choice?” he sneers.
My stomach is sick. I open my mouth but no sound comes out except a harsh breath. My hands grip the doorframe, and my nails bend. It hurts, but I can’t seem to control my body.
“They are innocent. He doesn’t need them. He wants me,” she sobs.
“Of course, he wants his precious Iris,” he spits. “What do I get? Maybe I need to add to the pack. They will get trained to work for me, my way.”
“No,” she whispers.
Turner kneels on her chest and pulls out a phone. “I have her. Let me have both kids. Come get the bitch.” He grins evilly. “I’ll take good care of them. Your new man is coming for you.”
“I love you, Daisy,” she sobs, blood trickling down her cheeks.
“You're lucky the crazy son-of-a-bitch didn’t kill all of you.”
My legs start shaking. Daddy? Daddy is dead. He’s going to take Momma away.