"I startled awake as a hand closed over my mouth. From the little light that penetrated the dark curtains of my bedroom, I could just make out the face of the woman who gave birth to me. Her dark, blood-red hair, like mine, framed a face lost in fright. Not a look I had ever seen in my eight years. I had witnessed anger, annoyance, and even confidence, but never fear. I stared at her wide eyes and flaring nostrils. The stink of sweat and fear barely...