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7

Langston

I watch Liesel close her eyes and fall asleep She looks so peaceful, so content, but I know that isn’t true Just like allahen I stare at her—it’s not reality

In reality, we are both enemies locked in a battle that will only end in one of our deaths

I’ve had a lot of practice watching others sleep over the years Ever sincethey’re still breathing as they snuggle their favorite stuffed anion and Atlas, a traditional teddy bear

I get the sa Liesel sleep as I do my children Liesel feels like my whole world I have blinders on when it co but her

I should sleep I’y to match her toain escape or lead me into a trap

But it’s i her sleep soothes my soul in a way that I didn’t even realize I need I reach out and touch her face

She doesn’t stir

That’s when I sink down into the bed and wrap my arht, at least I can hold her

I don’t feel the rage I expect by holding her inSiren, or for what she did before Holding her makes me want to protect her, care for her, even love her

“Why don’t I hate you?” I whisper in her hair I don’t understand—she’s done soainst ry—yes But hate…I could never hate her

But still, I have to ensure that Liesel never commits another sin I have my kids to worry about I can’t let her anywhere near them I still can’t believe I talked to her about them I have to protect them from her

But dammit, do I wish she couldsomeone so pure, innocent, and kind would persuade Liesel to my side

A loud banging noise startles me, and I jump up