The Final Hide-and-Seek

Summary

When I'm seven years old, my sister, Ellie Corwin, and I are playing hide-and-seek when an earthquake hits. My parents pull me out first, but rescue teams search for three days and nights without finding where my sister is hiding.

My parents confront me with bloodshot eyes, demanding answers, and all I can do is stammer, "I don't know… I don't know where she hid."

From that day on, my parents, who once adored me, never smile at me again.

This time, they're heading to visit my sister's grave. I mention that I want to come, and my mother breaks down all over again.