See Through My Eyes

I sat, eyes trained on the three young men Dad had brought in, two looked like each other so much. Identical twins.

"Come here El" Dad called out to me, his hand outstretched. I flinched as I recalled him landing blows on Mama with that same hand.

"Go on baby" Mama's shaky voice urged me on, I swallowed and stepped forward, each step I took I prayed the ground would open up and swallow me. My hair glowed and dimmed as I tried to stable my thoughts.

After what felt like an eternity, I slipped my hand into his outstretched hand, he squeezed it softly, his tendrils latching onto mine. Vexed.

I rubbed my eyes in an attempt to not cry.

"Meet your brothers"

You're ruining it.

I looked up at them. When did Mama gave birth to them?

"B-brothers?" I dragged my gaze to Mama who's head was hung low.

"Yes El, your brothers, this is Taw and Keith and this is Darein" he pointed at the twins first then at the one who sat next to him "Say hi to them Elora"

I raised and waved a shaky hand. Only one of the twin, the one father pointed at as Keith, waved back.

"They'll be staying here for the time being, the twins I mean, their luggage will be brought in later"

Why do you keep pulling at it?

"Ah yes, I'll clear out Elora's room for them" Mama stood up and disappeared into the house. I stood motionless between them.

"Hey" it was Keith. He had his palm open and pointed at me, like he was asking for a handshake. I slowly made my way over to him, placing my palm in his, his tendrils slowly met mine. Warm.

"How old are you?" He asked. "I'm...14"

"Oooo, you're a big girl!" He chuckled and I found myself smiling.

"I'm sorry for the inconveniences we might cause" he ran his hand over my hair.

You're gonna ruin it.