Cynthia Dion:

"Sneak out," Mr. Holt repeated.

"I--" I stuttered, confused.

"To discuss what we can do to persuade your father to give you and your sister a chance," he continued swiftly, clarifying to dispel my doubts evident in my silence.

"It is not possible for me to meet you at this time," I excused, having set a boundary to avoid any requests that could lead to more trouble with my father.

"Okay! I'll come by to meet you in the morning," he spoke ...