The layers of ice

Returning from the depth

She is here, as if nothing happened, as if she was never kidnapped, sacrificed and drowned...She was in front of the door of her house, as if no one grabbed her on her way back from school...

It's not locked so she entered, thinking she should somehow convince her mother to properly lock the house even when she was in.

The little living room was smelling cold tobacco and she could see the ashtray on the table even if it was supposed to stay outdoor. Her mom used to smoke when she is stressed...

Natalia could only smile faintly when she saw Vera Daniilovna on the couch, sleeping in an awkward position with a cigarette pack next to her. Her daughter had disappeared for three days so she surely couldn't sleep well and ended up dozing off on the couch...

-Mom, she said while lightly shaking her. Mom, wake up...

She opened her eyes in surprise and looked at Natalia as if stupefied.

-Natacha ? she asked, probably thinking she was dreaming.

-I'm sorry I worried you...

Before she could finish her sentence her mother hugged her strongly, as if making sure her daughter would not disappear again.

-Are you well ? Are you alright?

-Yes.

She hugged Natalia even closer.

-Thank god ! I thought you were kidnapped or... or worse..!

Her daughter decided not to start lying right now.