Distance

Caged

Amity sat beside her window, looking out onto the isle. 'If only I were a bird' she thought as a small sigh escaped her. 

"Did you just sigh?" The cold voice of her father cut through the air.  Amity realized her mistake too late. Her arms shook as her father's eyes twitched in silent rage. 

"You are a Blight" Her father began as he stepped closer. "And Blight's are strong." The distance between them was shrinking. "Blight's do Not sigh" A heavy hand landed on Amity's shoulder, causing the girl to tremble. "Do you Understand?" He asked gripping Amity's shoulder. His nails digging into her skin.

"Yes father" She replied her voice laced with fear and guilt. Amity closed her eyes waiting for the moment to pass. Praying that she would get off easy, if only for today. 

Nodding the man released Amity, giving little care to the blood on his fingertips. He turned and began walking away but not before stopping at the door. "By the way, You're mother will be returning from a coven meeting today, do not do Anything that will upset her." Her father lingered at the door, his warning echoed through Amity's mind. 

As the door to Amity's room shut, the girl glanced into the mirror hanging on her wall. "Do Not disappoint mother" she said aloud, her voice soft and weak. Then there was a soft knock on her door.

"Are you okay Mittens?" Asked Edric. The older brother gently pushed the door open, concern written on his face. "You can talk to me, I'm right here I promise." Edric may have been a prankster at school, but within the Manor walls he was nothing short of a perfect child. A "true" Blight. A boy who followed the rules and never raised his voice. 

"Mittens? You okay?" Asked the voice of Emira. The kind one, the big sister, the protector. Emira locked eyes with Amity and for a moment time stood still. "We are right here." Emira said stepping closer.

"We can get through this together." Edric continued, the distance between them was shrinking. 

"We love you." The twins said in unison. The distance was gone, but as the twins reached for Amity. She flinched away, shrinking ever so slightly. As if afraid of what her family would do to her. The twins exchanged a glance, then stepped away. 

The dinner bell rang throughout the manor. Each sibling feeling their shoulders tense. Taking a deep breath Emira stood tall and walked out the door. Edric soon followed, leaving Amity to stare out the window one last time. 'If only I weren't in a cage.'