Institutionalized
The door slammed shut, leaving me in a cold, empty room. I stood still, listening to the echo of keys clanking as the lock was secured. Silence pressed in—I was alone. A shadow crept across my mind, closing me off from within. This place was strange, filled with harsh sounds, rancid smells, and faces drained of color and joy. A voice crackled over the PA system: “Free Time.” Moments later, my cell door creaked open, and I stepped from my cage into the corridor. Unsure of where to go, I shuffled down the long, dim hallway. In a barred window, I caught sight of my reflection. Pausing, I felt a faint urge to grieve, but no tears would come. The fire that once burned in my heart had turned to ash. My reflection revealed the battles I had fought—against demons within and without—etched deep upon my face. Weakened by despair, my strength drained away. Like a wind-up toy at its end, I slid down the wall until I lay curled upon the cold, unforgiving floor. Darkness surrounded me. Then, a f...