Fiction
Mr. Skittles
You’re okay
“You’re okay. You’re okay. You’re okay,” Chloe whispered so quietly she couldn’t even hear it herself.
Her knobby knees were drawn to her chest, her arms wrapped protectively around them, and her stomach was clenched into a tight ball of worry.
She wished she had grabbed Mr. Skittles, but when it started, all she could think about was getting out of sight. That was her way.
Now, though, she was worried about him, and if she had him to hold, she would feel so much better.
She couldn’t remember if she had put him away, tucked under her bed, where he was safe. Safe from them. She hoped so hard that he was at least in her room.
She pictured him — his colorful fur and his button eyes. Just the thought made her feel a little bit better, if only she knew he was safe.
She was in her go-to hiding place, behind the massive desk in her father’s study. It wasn’t the most comfortable place to be, but it served its purpose. No one knew where she was. No one could see her.
And that meant she wouldn’t make anyone mad. So maybe the screaming would stop. Eventually. And then she could come out. When she was sure the coast was clear.
