“Ah, there you are, sis.” As he spoke these five words, and I stepped out from Edward’s arms, I was met with his murderous smile that had haunted my dreams for so long. “Did you miss me?” He laughed, and it reminded me of James and his sadistic games with me in the ballet studio almost two years ago. He placed his weapon on the fireplace and signalled me forward to hug him; I could hear my mum’s sobs as my feet acted on their own accord and walked towards him. His hands reached out and took my shoulders, causing me to flinch, as he pulled me into an embrace. “Good to see you too.” He whispered, before throwing me down on the floor at his feet; kicking me, resurrecting the pain of his first encounter with my body. He turned and wiped away the spit that had formed around his mouth as he forced my family to watch me wither in pain. I took my chance and scrambled to join the others. Mum’s arms instantly enveloped me, as I sat in between her legs, holding Cain’s hand and dad’s hand in the other. “Now, family of mine; and you… Bob? No. Tim? No. Oh, what was it? Ah! Phil! Yes, so folks, and Phil, you have some explaining to do, hey?”

“Damian…” Dad began, but this seemed to aggravate him more, as placed his foot on the coffee table, his chin resting on his hand. “Ah, ah, ah father dearest, it’s my turn to speak for once. You will only speak when you are spoken too, okay?” He spat as he stroked his chin. “Now, would you,” His started, before reaching into his boot and pulling out a Bowie knife, and swiveled it towards Mum, “Explain to me whilst I waited up in Arizona for you, with a safe house away from this maniac that is terrorising you?” I squeezed Cain’s hand tighter as a warning to not mess with our deranged brother as he scoffed at Damian’s words.

“Urmm, I think that would be you, brother dearest.” I dared a look up at Damian; and the image of a cartoon villain popped into my head, all red in the face with steam coming out of its ears. I closed my eyes, and though of all the happy times I had had during my life, when I felt strong hands push me. I toppled over onto my side and my eyes flew open. I looked in the direction of the strong hands and saw Damian’s knife in the wall where Cain’s head had been. I looked just in time to see him lunge at me, and grabbing me by my hair.