OK, so I read the story, and I thank you. I thank you for the sensitivity. For the insight. For the craft. I thank you for the moments of grace that you offered by introducing me to a twelve-year-old survivor.

You leave no unanswered questions. With clear, economic precision, you offer the circumstance of this child's life. Child--we are surprised when we learn of her youth. Stunned, shocked, made aware poignantly of her isolation, of her vulnerability.

The details you offer that tell of menace. Meager, powerful details. A man tugging at her skirt. A repeated image that tells all.

This is brilliant. You are a gifted writer.