My children sweat and cry in the sweltering heat.

"What have I done?" I think to myself. "I should go back to him. I AM nothing without him. I am now considered 'people like you'... whatever that means. I have not changed. I am still intelligent, kind, educated, well-trained, talented and fun... but now I am considered "nothing." I am 'people like you.' Those who once loved me say I deserve this, I am to blame. Those who once held their arms out to me and promised that my children and I would never live in fear again are gone. They are out "there," somewhere.... still there in their comfort zones, but not answering my calls, looking away when they see my tears, making promises then turning away when they see just how much help we need.... how much love we crave and are starving for."

We are alone, locked in our room. There is no way out. It is night again. I try to sleep. I hear him....

"No one wants sloppy seconds, so run. See how far you'll get without me. I'll always be there watching your every move. You'll never get away from me. You are mine and mine alone. Run, go ahead... no one will help you. No one will love you. Try to hide from me. I'll find you. I always do... but you're not worth finding. You're used up, no longer beautiful and young. You are nothing."

He laughs. His laughter grows louder and louder. I close my eyes and cover my face. He is everywhere. He is a nightmare within my nightmare.