My Former Self (16 page)

When we went up to Trout Lake the summer after Jer died, none of us really wanted to be there, but we thought
going might make things more normal. I didn’t go out to the big campfire party on the last night because I just wasn’t in the mood. I know that you and Dad probably just went to keep your mind off of everything. After I had gone to bed I was awakened—probably around midnight—by Uncle Jack.

He raped me.

As I write this, I cringe and have difficulty breathing. I never told you because I wanted to forget. I am telling you now because I think you should know. I won’t be able to talk to you about this—I can’t talk about it to anyone—so please don’t call me.

I prefer to forget.

Tonya

THE END

Acknowledgments

Heartfelt thanks to Martin and Mom for reading and re-reading early versions and for encouraging me along the way. Thanks to M et Mme for continued support in whatever I do. Finally, I wish to thank Jennie and Jenn who, although very different from Kaitlyn and Amanda, inspired the creation of Tonya’s two best friends.