Ignoring the pain, I twisted my head and slammed it against the wall of the freezer.
I told myself, just once. Just one hit.
If Dad heard the noise, he would find me.
And then I would be saved.
A flicker of hope sparked inside me. I thought I'd found my lifeline.
Bang! The sharp crack of my skull against the freezer wall rang out at the exact same moment as a phone ringtone.
"Honey, you took Herbert on the field trip?"
"Great. Text me when you get there tonight, and I'll come pick you up."
"How's Kate doing? Still at home throwing a tantrum?"
It was Mom's voice.
I knew it. Mom did love me. She was still asking about me.
"I haven't seen her," Dad said. "Mom probably took her out somewhere."
"That girl is so spoiled. Just because we didn't take her on the trip, she starts faking sick for attention."
Dad let out a sigh, his voice cool and detached.
"I don't know where she picked it up, but now she's learned how to compete for attention."
The tiny flame that had just flickered to life inside me went out in an instant.
Mom, I wasn't lying. I really do have a fever.
Why won't you believe me?
Then Grandma's voice came from outside.
"Son! When did you get back?"
"A little while ago."