FAMILY AND GUILT

ALANNA

“Family is a prison where the bars are made of blood and guilt.”

I stared at the phone, my father’s name flashing on the screen. My gut twisted, a knot of resentment and old wounds that never seemed to heal. I hesitated before answering, but his voice, insistent and commanding, brooked no argument.

“Alanna, we need to talk. It’s important.”

I could feel the weight of his words pressing down on me. I looked over at Angela, who was sitting across from me with a worried frown.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” Angela’s voice was calm but filled with concern. “The last time you saw him, he took a lot from you. Do you really want to put yourself through that again?”

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. “I know, Angela. But he’s still my father. I can’t just ignore him, no matter what happened before.”

Angela gave me a long, thoughtful look before nodding reluctantly. “Alright, but be careful. You know he’s good at manipulating.”

I promised her I’d be cautious and left for the