Author: Wanda Miranda

“Daddy, Ill eat so little. Please dont send me to the orphanage,” the little girl begged

Margaret woke to find herself in an unfamiliar room that resembled a hospital ward. Her head throbbed

Mum, why didnt you invite me to your birthday? Her fingers tightened around the phone until they turned white.

**Diary Entry** Ive had enough. From now on, Ill only cook for myself and Annie. “Whys that?”

“I’ve had enoughthat’s it, I’m leaving! How much longer can I take this?

A thick snowfall blankets the quiet village of Oakridge, draping it like a pristine white shroud, swallowing

**Diary Entry 30th December***”Ive invited Mum and my sister over for New Years,”

You threw me out at fourteen, and now you expect me to care for you in your old age? Not a chance!

The night shift in the surgical ward dragged on endlessly, as if time had slowed to a crawl.

Class 10B hadnt had a permanent English literature teacher for months. One had gone on maternity leave;