Chapter 1

Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder. A dark, suicidal alter was born inside my mind.

To take care of me, Helen quit her six-figure job.

David worked endless odd jobs after his regular shifts just to pay for my therapy.

My five-year-old sister, Lily, did everything she could to help around the house, always walking on eggshells around me.

Today was Lily's sixth birthday. Helen came to my room early in the morning.

"Lily has suffered so much because of you over the years," Helen said, her voice heavy with exhaustion. "Today is her birthday. Just be good, Maya. Don't make a scene."

I nodded obediently.

What Helen didn't know was that in order to celebrate Lily's birthday, I had been taking my medication on time for a whole week.

But the moment Lily's birthday cake was placed on the table, a blinding pain split my skull.

Eve, my alter, was trying to take control of my body. Trembling, I gently tugged at Helen's sleeve.

Before I could say a word, Helen -- who was usually so gentle -- slapped me hard across the face and dragged me into the bathroom.

"It's Lily's birthday! Can't you stop faking your episodes for just one day?"

"If you're really in that much pain, then just go die already!"

"You psycho! You're ruining this family!"

Helen screamed hysterically at me, slamming the bathroom door shut.

Holding back my tears, I gave up. I stopped fighting Eve.

I chose to set Helen, David, and Lily free.

And I decided to let Eve have her wish.