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I imagine his blood seeping through the skin of the earth, watering
the plants in the soil, which would one day grow into vile weeds.
Why are you so worthless?
A stinging pain burns my throat and threatens to burst. El Padre
walks around me and takes the rifle from Leo’s hands. He steps up
behind me, puts his arm around my body, and places the rifle in my
hands. His chin rests tenderly on my shoulder as he brings my arms
up, aiming the rifle directly betweenNatalya’s wild eyes. He whispers
and I can feel his heated breath in my ear, but the toxicity of his tone
chills my spine and makes me imagine a snake gliding down my neck,
its perfect skin paralysing every petty nerve and muscle.
You will have my respect, Damita. I will make you beautiful, like
her, he says. Otherwise, I’ll take her in your place. You can have the
streets again.
I look my sister. I imagine my hero again. I think of the day he
will come. He will be brave and beautiful and intelligent. He will pull
me into his arms and, in a burst of light, he will save me.
‘
In A Burst
Of Light
12