(Arata)
Peace enveloped me as I stepped out of the car. Mom was already there, waiting.
We hugged and cried together and then she followed me to my room.
Her presence was soothing, filling me with her peace.
I knew of her scars, but I hadn't asked her about them as an adult.
As a child, I must have.
For the first time, she revealed to me what the story behind her scars was.
Deep inside, I knew that abusive bastard must have hurt her, and she confirmed it.
I knew I had to ask her about him. The truth which had almost destroyed my life. I needed to know.
Mom stiffened at my question. A hardness descended on her face while her eyes glossed over with a forlorn look.
I understood she was lost somewhere in her disturbing past and I hated putting her through this.
"We will talk about it soon, Arata, in the presence of your father. Not right now. You need peace for now." She gave another squeeze to my hand.
