Carcata

        You pull up your stockings and push your feet into your shoes, dressing for school, while sitting on the edge of your bed. You can’t stay at home for another day. You know that there isn’t much time left and, regardless of what everyone says, you have to see the world one final time. You pick up your backpack and open your bedroom door. The house is still, telling you that your parents are asleep. You tip toe down the stairs and to the front door, where you hesitate for a moment. “I can’t just leave them…” You turn around, deciding to tell them that you’re off for school when you see your