Being Strong

EMILY

“Someone grew balls, not enough though, since you still need a mask on your face.” I rasped. I tried to sound bold but my voice sounded hoarse. The only thing I had control over was my facial expression. “And that gun.” I scoffed. “Do you know how to use it?” I placed the bag down and settled on the chair closest to the door. “What do you want?” I asked.

“You have a very pretty mother.” He said, ignoring my questions and not minding my taunts. “I heard that you both aren’t on good terms.” He played with Amelia’s hair as he spoke. Then he stopped to remove the rag from her mouth.

I recognized it as the kitchen napkin. He came through the kitchen while Amelia must have come through the door. He wasn’t a professional, from his muscles I could see all he had was brawn. He could smash a window open but couldn’t pick locks.

I wasn’t afraid of him but I could tell Amelia was, and I couldn’t figure out why. Amelia wasn’t the type to fear.

“Mommy here has a confession to make.” The man n