CONTENT WARNING:

This story contains depictions of domestic violence and child abuse.

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Mommy and I have been on a big holiday. 

It’s the biggest holiday I’ve ever been on. We’ve gone all around the country in Mommy’s old car, sleeping in lots of interesting places. Last night, we stayed in a really old building. I could tell it was old because the wallpaper was peeling off the walls, and they were really gross underneath. Also, it smelled really yucky. 

Two nights ago, we slept in the car. It was really fun! We got to look at the stars, and I counted them until I fell asleep. I got up to thirty-three, but Mommy said she counted up to one hundred! 

When I grow up, I want to be able to count to one hundred stars before I fall asleep too. 

Tonight, we’re in another old building, but it’s not as old as the last one. The wallpaper isn’t peeling this time, but the windows are all gross and dirty. Mommy told me not to touch them. So I got really close instead. 

I shouldn’t have gotten really close. They smelled like poop. 

Earlier today, I asked Mommy when we’re going to go back home. It’s been a lot of fun, but I miss my friends, and I’m sure Daddy misses us! Also, I like my bed more than any of the beds we’ve been sleeping in. It’s soft and comfy, and I fall asleep really easily. All these other beds are too hard, or sometimes they’re too bouncy. Also, the pillows aren’t comfy at all. 

She said we’d go back home soon. But that’s what she said two months ago too, so maybe soon means something different when adults speak. 

Mommy’s in the bathroom right now, crying. I’m watching TV. It’s very crackly and the sound is too quiet, but I don’t mind very much. Mommy’s been crying a lot while on this holiday. I think she misses Daddy a lot. 

There’s a knock at the door. It must be a visitor, because Mommy stopped crying very fast. She doesn’t like crying in front of people, even me. She walks to the door and opens it, and I see Daddy outside! 

Before I can jump out of bed to say hi, he pushes Mommy really hard and she falls down. I’m upset he did that to Mommy, but it must be because he wants to see me really bad! He looks very upset, but I’m sure a hug will cheer him up. Hugs always cheer Mommy up, after all! I lift my arms up, ready for a hug, and he stomps towards me. Mommy’s screaming very loud, telling him not to hurt me, but I’m sure his hug isn’t going to be that tight. 

I close my eyes and grin. I can’t wait to tell Daddy about my holid— 

…

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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available and you are not alone.

In the US: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
Text START to 88788

In the UK: National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

In Australia: 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732

In Canada: Talk4Healing: 1-855-554-4325

For immediate danger, always call your local emergency services.