Amoah, 1

Amy Amoah
Ms. Kasyanik
English 9H 2B
8 October 2015

A Night to Remember

I had a difficult past, one filled with pain and strife. At two weeks old, I was discovered
in a cardboard box, at the state of near death. The couple who found me brought me immediately
to the Ivory Care Home, a worn out, a two-story pile of rocks located in the south of Fordham,
Bronx. I could not have asked for anything more. They did save my life, and I was grateful, but
once in a while, I drift off and wonder how different my life would have been if their kindness
extended just enough to take me home with them.
My alarm rang softly from the opposite end of the attic. I scurried to turn the alarm off
before the younger orphans woke up downstairs. I could not afford to wake them or Catherine
up.
I stared at the alarm. It was 4:01 a.m. I desperately needed more sleep, but I only had two
hours to get myself ready, prepare breakfast, and clean the compound. I rushed to the basement,
trying to make as little noise as possible. The first floor was pitch black, and all around my feet,
the orphans snorted and stirred. The bathroom was just twenty steps away. I was within reach
until John woke up and cried after me. My heart sank.
John, please go back to sleep. You dont want to sleep in class today, right? I asked,
lying by his side.
But, I had a bad dream, Emily. Can you sing to me, please? John requested. His baby
blue eyes peered at me amidst the darkness.

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I glanced at the clock that hung above the television. It was now 4:15 a.m. I had only an
hour and forty-five minutes left. Okay, John. Just one song. We dont want to wake up Ms.
Catherine, right?
Yes! I want Little Teapot, our favorite song.
It took about twenty minutes to jog to school. My hair was wet; my shirt was stained
with syrup, and my jeans were turned inside out, but I was happy because my little John
was happy.
Emily, you are late yet again, my AP Biology indicated. The entire class stared at
me; some giggled and scoffed.
Sorry, sir. It wont happen again, I replied and took a seat in the back.
Well, Emily. We were just talking about chemiosmosis. I am sure you completed
the homework I assigned last class on this topic.
No, sir. I am sorry. I kept my head low and tried hard to keep the tears that stung
my eyes from flowing down my flushed cheeks. Mr. Thomas was one of my favorite
teachers. He offered me an internship after graduation, but his faith in me was gradually
declining because I was so occupied with the orphanage.
So, who would like to summarize our discussion to Ms. Emily? Mr. Thomas
asked, finally tearing his eyes from mine. Peter?
Peter Wales was the president of the Bronx Science Association and the most
charming guy in the entire school. He glanced my way in pity. I met his gaze, looking into
his emerald eyes until he was forced to look away and begin his elaborate summary. The
bell rung after his last word, and I rushed out of the room before Mr. Thomas had the
chance to call me.
Emily, please wait up! Sarah called from behind me. She was my best friend since the
first grade and has stuck with me for over eight years. Where are you rushing to?

Amoah, 3

Sorry, I had a bad morning, I replied.

She stared at my disheveled appearance in disbelief and pulled me into the girls
bathroom for my makeover.
You are lucky I have extra clothes in my bag, Sarah jokingly chastised.
Oh Sarah, what on earth would my life be without you? I teased back.
Sarah brushed through my blonde locks as I stared at my reflection. I looked
different. Transformed. Almost Beautiful. I wondered if I had my mothers eyes or my
fathers hair.
What are you thinking about?
Nothing, I responded. Even though Sarah and I were incredibly close, I never
shared my private thoughts about my parents with her.
How do you do this, Sarah? You need to get into designer school after graduation,
I said, quickly changing the subject.
Sarahs eyes gleamed with mischief. Speaking of graduation, prom is just a week
away. What are you wearing? Are you going with someone? Someone like Peter?
I rolled my eyes. Sarah, the orphanage is getting larger. I wont be able to make it
and why on earth would Peter want to go with me?
Look at you. Youre gorgeous, and I see the way he looks at you.
I scoffed. Sarah, please dont. Even if I wanted to go, you know Catherine would
never let me go. She cant even stay alone with the orphans for a night.
I just want to cherish that last moment we have together, Emily. With your big
brains and my creativity, we are destined to go separate ways when those admission letters
come. Let me go with a smile by allowing me to pick out your first gown for prom.

Amoah, 4

Youre going to make me cry, Sarah. I turned to face her. Her eyes were already
swelling with tears, so I let mine free. We wrapped our arms around each other and
allowed our tears to fall, staining our shirts. We remained like that for a long time until the
ten-minute bell rung.
I am going to miss you. And I just want these last few days to be memorable,
Sarah said. She glanced at her watch and nudged my shoulder. You made us miss lunch,
Emily!
I laughed at her pout.
I am serious. You really owe me!
Whatever you want, princess. See you tomorrow, I replied and started for the
door.
Promise me youll think about it! she yelled after me.
It was bedtime for the children at the Ivory Care Home. I put the orphans to bed early, so
I could have ample time to talk with Catherine. She usually locked herself in her oasis at 6:30
p.m., and it was currently 6:25 p.m. I crept upstairs and softly knocked on her door. This was the
third time I visited Catherines room, and I was frightened.
Emily, dear, is that you?
My hands shook as I gradually opened her bedroom door. The only times she ever
addressed me that way was when she needed something from me or was very angry with me.
The appalling smell of feces and rotten food filled my nostrils as soon as I walked in. Her room
was in utter chaos. Clothes were scattered all over the carpet, food and feces littered the
furniture, and green mold engulfed her pink walls. Catherine looked so small and so frail amidst
the disorder. I felt almost sorry her despite all she had done to me.
Ms. Catherine, I wish you allowed me to you see more often. I hate seeing you this
way.

Amoah, 5

I know you need something from me, so go on. Say what you came here to say.
Well, as you may already know, prom is in about a week. I know that my duties at the
orphanage must be completed before any school activities, but this is my first and only dance
before graduation. I really would like to goPlease.
I looked into her eyes, hoping to read her mind, her thoughts, but her expression was
blank. Her movements were slow and careful. She stood up and walked over to me. I towered
over her, but every bone in my body trembled as she clutched my arms for support.
You feel warm. Going to this promI dont think it is a good idea, she managed to say.
She coughed as foam formed in the corners of his lips, and she let me out of her hold in
order to find her a cloth.
Emily, you can tell I am sick, and I can tell you are disgusted by me, but I need you here
to care for me.
The last thing I would do is leave you here on your own, but prom is just for a night.
You and the orphans would be in bed by then.
Have you found that cloth yet?
Not yet. I am looking for a clean one.
Its fine. Come. Come. I miss combing through your beautiful locks.
I was hesitant at first, but I walked over to her and crouched down at her feet like I used
to as a little girl. She toyed with my hair and hummed.
I am sure other girls are envious of you. Your hair is everything you know. A womans
pride and joy, she giggled.
Things almost felt normal and at ease, but my stomach was still in knots. Something
about her gentleness didnt feel right. Then, all of a sudden, Catherines hold tightened around

Amoah, 6

my curls; she pulled my hair back to the point where I felt my neck giving into the pressure. I
tried desperately to wriggle myself free; I didnt want to imagine what she would do next. I pled,
sobbed, and thrashed, but both of her hands clutched a handful of my curls. The harder I
thrashed, the tighter she held.
"I have given you a lot of mercy, Emily. I might be frail, but nobody crosses me without
due punishment," she said through gritted teeth. "Hold still!"
My locks gently fell to the ground making a halo of gold around me. I was alone. I felt
weak and minuscule. My head and my eyes throbbed in agony, but the tears persisted to pour as
lay in my pile of hair, lost forever. My hair was my only comfort and before long, I fell asleep on
the coarse carpet.
Emily, wake up. Wake up, Emily. I am scared!
My eyes were half open, but the voice was clear and distinct. It was John.
John, did you have another bad dream? I said, rubbing my eyes. I searched
around the room for Catherine and an overwhelming sense of relief calmed my racing
heart.
Yes, it was
About your mom, I said, interrupting him.
What happened, Emily? Your hair looks funny, John giggled. He passed his little
hands through my hair like it was his own fluffy teddy bear. It was then I noticed how short
and uneven my hair was; it barely reached the nape of my neck in some sections while
other strands hang below my shoulder.
I chuckled. Yes, it definitely is.
I tightened by tattered blue hoodie over my head. My whole face was shielded as I
walked into the market. The orphanage was in desperate need for food after Catherine locked
herself in the attic. After she had cut all my hair off, Catherine banished me to her room. Prior to
locking herself up, Catherine scared the orphans into packing all the food available in the attic
late one night. I was not allowed to leave under any circumstance, but once Catherine fell asleep,

Amoah, 7

I snuck to the local grocer for food for the orphans using the little money I found hidden in
crevices or in the pockets of clothing.
I rushed straight for the frozen food aisle and picked out two cheese pizzas, a general
favorite. My foot tapped uncontrollably as I stood in line, anxiously waiting for my turn. The
checkout lines were extremely long that day, and I was afraid to get home and encounter
Catherine waiting for me upstairs. I was so lost in my fears that I failed to make out my name
being called further down the line. The voice came closer, snapping me out of my nightmare.
Emily?
It was Sarah. I could tell by the shock and disappointment in her voice. I tried to block
her out until she walked over to me and touched my arm.
"Emily, I know it's you," Sarah said. All eyes were on us now.
Not now, I whispered.
Drop your spot in the line, and lets talk then.
Are you kidding me?
A flash of hurt came across Sarahs face. This was the first time I had ever talked to her
like that.
I will wait for you outside then, she said and left me alone to wallow in my shame.
Sarah was the last person I wanted to face, but she still spotted me from a mile
away.
Emily, I am right here, she exclaimed. She smiled and waved at me like the scene
that transpired just a few minutes ago never happened.
I slowly walked over to her as guilt and anxiety weighed down on me. She hugged
me before I could say a word, and I let my tense shoulders finally relax.
Where have you been? she asked, finally releasing me.

Amoah, 8

"It has been a hard week," I replied.

You have bags under your eyes; have you been sleeping?
Not that much.
Does Catherine have anything to do with this?
Please. Lets not talk about this now. I looked away and instinctively tightened my
hood.
Sarah studied me with suspicion, but after a few moments, she let it go.
We miss you at school. Its been five days since I have seen your face, and prom is
just two days away!
I cant go, Sarah, I whispered, looking away, Im sorry.
What do you mean you cant go? Prom was our last chance to be free and enjoy
ourselves before college!
I needed a reason, so I finally pulled down my hoodie, and she gasped. She was at a
loss for words as her eyes filled with tears.
She did this to me, Sarah. Catherine did this to me. That is why I cant go, I said .
The drive back to the orphanage was awkward and quiet, and Sarah was never this quiet.
The Ivory Care Home sign came into central view as we neared the orphanage.
Thank you, I finally said.
Emily, you know its not safe in that house, but I know those children need you. But, I
have never slept over. And I want to come over tomorrow, to help you out and make sure
Catherine does not lay a finger on you, Sarah said.
Sarah, I attempted to protest.

Come on, I am sure Catherine wont mind. She cant hurt you if Im around.

Amoah, 9

I put the orphans early to bed and checked the attic to make sure Catherine was fast
asleep. I was expecting Sarah in the next five minutes, and lucky for her, Catherines room
was decent enough for her to sleep in.
Emily! Sarah exclaimed at the front door.
I ran to the door to let her in. I was overly excited for tonight. This was the first time
Sarah visited or stayed at the orphanage.
Emily, Sarah declared, out of breath, I have a lot to unpack. Could you help me
out? All the stuff is in the backseat.
Stuff? I asked. Did you bring your entire closet?
Emily!
Fine, I will be back. Try not to make any noise, please.
The sky was clear, and the air was cool and serene. Sarahs burgundy Hyundai
stood out amongst the dull, outdated trucks that lined the streets. I peered into the backseat
and was dumbfounded by the heap of stuff piled to the roof the car.
Are you going to help me out or what? Sarah asked, sneaking up behind me.
I jumped at her voice. What is all this stuff?
Lets take them in, and I will explain everything to you.
I cant believe this, I exclaimed. I gazed at my reflection in the bathroom mirror. My
hands naturally ruffled my newly cut and dyed hair. It was now a beautiful shade of strawberry
blonde, and it framed my face perfectly. I dont know how can possibly repay you!
Dont worry about it. You gratitude and acceptance to my second gift is enough, Sarah
assured while pulling out a garment bag from her duffel bag.

Sarah, I scowled.
Try it on, please. Emily, please!

Amoah, 10

Fine! I exclaimed in defeat. You are the best, you know.

I know!
Ember..., you look absolutely stunning, Sarah acknowledged as we both gazed at
our reflections in her bedroom mirror. I was dressed in a one shoulder crimson colored
organza gown that contrasted beautifully with my skin tone and hair color. Sarah, on the
other hand, was dressed in a strapless deep blue gown with gold embellishments.
I turned to look at her. I owe it all to you.
No problem. Anyway, its late; we need all the rest we can get for tomorrow.
SarahI am so grateful for all of this, but I never said yes to going to prom. I
cant leave these kids all alone with Catherine locked up in the attic.
You did by accepting all these
All of a sudden, the wooden stairs that descended from the attic began to creak.
Slow and heavy footsteps echoed throughout the orphanage. The noise was distant at first,
and for a split second, the noise stopped until Catherine began yelling my name.
Emily, what are you still doing up? she barked.
My heart skipped a beat. I glanced over at Sarah to figure out her next move, but
she stood there more determined than ever.
Sarah, I whispered, Please, dont just stand there. Help me unzip this dress!
You have to stand up to her, Emily.
Just do as I say! Shell call the police. Shes a good liar."
Catherines barking grew louder as each second passed. Beads of sweat accumulated
above my upper lip; I was absolutely terrified to the point where my fingers trembled as I
stuffed our accessories and dresses into Sarah's duffel bag. We quickly

Amoah, 11

transformed the room to its original condition in a matter of minutes, and as Sarah and I
tip-toed across the cold wooden floors, I was more grateful once Catherine's bellowing
ceased. It was difficult climbing upstairs, but when we finally reached Catherine's
bedroom, I was overjoyed. I gradually cracked open Catherine's bedroom door to prevent
any noise from traveling to the attic. The room is pitch-black, but I didn't remember
turning the lights off. I stepped in first with Sarah following behind me. All of a sudden, the
door shut behind us. I ran to the door and anxiously fidgeted with the knob, but no matter
how hard I tried, it still didn't budge. I looked over to Sarah with sorrow filled eyes. We
were locked in.
"Emily, I am calling my uncle. He's a cop. He'll know what to do."
"Sarah, don't!" I exclaimed, grabbing her phone from her hands.
"Give it back, Emily. You have to stand up to Catherine once and for all. You can't keep
living like this."
"We'll lose our home and our sense of safety."
"Sense of safety? Emily, Catherine abuses and mistreats you. She uses you down to the
bone, and if you don't escape now, you'll end up just like her."
"Never in a million years...," I spat. "I am not scared for my own life but for the five
orphans living with me, for John."
"Emily, the only reason these kids have remained in this orphanage is because they have
never been exposed to parents willing to adopt them, and I know Catherine has something to do
with this. Shes keeping you guys for extra funding from the government."
"What?" I was bewildered. I felt like so ignorant, so foolish, and betrayed. "She's been
lying to us all this time?"
A brief moment of awkward silence came between us as I tried to wrap my head around
all the lies Catherine filled our heads with. She told us that no one would ever adopt children that

Amoah, 12

were as unkempt and worthless as we were. I handed Sarah her phone. She didn't say a word and
dialed her uncle's number. It was as if she read my mind.

It was already midnight, but the entire police squad was parked in front of the
orphanage. Red and blue lights flashed behind the curtain, and neighbors filled the streets.
We could hear voices downstairs as more and more policemen filed into the building,
searching for us. It was utter chaos. The orphans were wide awake; they cried and
screeched in unison, but Catherine was still the loudest. She tried to protest, saying that
their search was unlawful. As heavy footsteps came closer the door, Sarah and I pounded as
hard as we could and screamed for help. It didn't take long for Sarah's uncle to locate and
finally free us from our imprisonment.
"You girls okay?" Sarah's uncle asked, wrapping us in his oversized leather jacket.
"Yes, we are," Sarah answered.
"Thank you," I managed to say.
"Don't be thankful for what I am supposed to do, he chastised.
It was the night of prom, and even after persistent disagreement from Sarah's parents,
Sarah managed to convince us all that it was an opportunity that could be passed up. We finally
caved in, and I am glad we did.
Our masquerade ball was held at the Edison ballroom; it was such an exquisite and
extravagant venue. We arrived an hour late because Sarah's mom offered to give us an entire
makeover at her salon. I was extremely anxious as we descended the grand staircase leading to
the dance floor. All our peers turned heads. I tried to keep my eyes locked on the ground as Sarah
stole the show, but I felt a set of eyes watching me with every step I took. My cheeks
immediately began to blush because I knew exactly who he was. Our eyes briefly met before
Sarah pulled me away for appetizers.

Amoah, 13

Sarah finally parted away from me at the punch table, and I enjoyed my time alone
as I searched through the crowd for Peter. I began to reminisce the first time we met; it was
in the first grade. We were the two smartest kids in class and ever since we've been in
competition for the longest time, and it prevented us from ever becoming friends. Since
crossing paths in high school, things got weird between us. Peter was not the same skinny
guy with glasses bigger than his head, and I was not the same tiny girl with hair down to
my knees.
"Hey, Emily," a voice called from behind me.
I spun around to see Peter smiling sheepishly at me.
I like your new haircut by the way, Peter said breaking the silence.
And I like your white tux; you stand out, considering that every guy around is
dressed in a black tuxedo, I joked. He laughed, and I was glad the atmosphere became
more relaxed.
Everyone seems to be having a lot of fun, but this isnt really my thing.
Me either. I will dance only if Ben King comes on.
Speak of the devil; Stand by Me is my favorite song.
No way! I exclaimed, punching him lightly on the shoulder, "I hope you haven't
been investigating me behind my back."
Maybe I have, he said. Then, all the laughter in eyes disappeared. Emily, you
look stunning. I had been gathering all the courage I could muster for the last two weeks to
ask you to prom, but I never got the chance to. And now, all I really want to do is have my
first dance with you.
I was blindsided and had nothing to say for the longest time.

Amoah, 14

I am sorry I sprung that up on you like that. I am such an idiot, he finally said. He
turned to walk away, and the first thing that came to mind was to grab his arm before
losing him.
Peter, I cant say I wasnt surprised. I never thought I was the kind of girl youd
ask to prom. But I will that I cant imagine anyone else I would rather dance with but you,
I said.
Then, Ms. Emily Freeman, may I have this dance while the night is still young?
You certainly may.