Have you ever had a nightmare so bad you wake up sweating or breathing heavily? Imagine living that nightmare every day. My nightmare actually happened, and I suffered from its relentless grip for far too long.

Now, it is time to bury my demon once and for all. On November 3, 2019, my previously innocent view of the world was shattered.

My life was flipped upside down, shoved into a barrel, shaken violently, and rolled down a hill into darkness. All the murder mystery shows and podcasts I once enjoyed never prepared me to become the victim of my own tragic story.

As the life slowly drained from my body and everything went dark, I lost my faith in humanity. I lost the ability to trust.

Blinded by love, I was slowly drifting into what I thought was the end. I didn't see the light; I was consumed by regret, worrying about my two boys.

Would he let them live, or would he end their lives too?The man I had given my heart and trust to quickly made me realize the massive mistake I had made. Years of my life and memories swirled down the drain, taking me with them.

As my life flashed before my eyes in that gray area between life and death, I prayed. Please, Lord, do not let this man hurt my boys.

Please help them escape. Please somehow alert my mom that something is wrong.

Suddenly, air rushed back into my lungs, and I coughed violently, as if taking my first breath. After several minutes of catching my breath and regaining my strength, I resolved to protect my boys.

No one would hurt them today. I stumbled to my feet, using any furniture I could for support.

Fortunately, my demon had left the room, giving me precious moments to plan our escape. But the demon had other plans.

. .