*Zara*

There were so many emotions swirling within me when my parents walked into the room. The first and foremost was relief and happiness.

It was beginning to feel like I was never going to see them again, especially during the couple of times I had been held hostage. Immediately following the elation was the wrenching concern and guilt as I watched their faces constrict with pain and worry for my wellbeing.

“Zara, we’re taking you home,” my ...