I CAME HOME TO FIND MY DAUGHTER LOCKED IN THE DOG CAGE—AND THE BABYSITTER DIDN’T

“She said to let her out when she roars,” Kelsie continued nonchalantly, as if this was the most normal thing in the world. My eyes widened, disbelief mingling with anger. How could she not see how wrong this was? “Kelsie,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady but firm, “this is not okay. You don’t lock kids in cages, no matter what game they’re playing.” For a moment, Kelsie’s expression didn’t change. It was like she didn’t quite understand the gravity of what she’d done. Then, as if finally aware of my panic, she put down her phone and walked towards us. “Ellie,” I whispered as I knelt down, fumbling with the latch to free her. “It’s okay, honey. You’re not a tiger anymore. You’re safe.” As soon as the door swung open, Ellie scrambled into my arms, her little body shaking against mine. I held her tight, whispering reassurances into her hair as she clung to me like a lifeline. Her brother shuffled closer, his big eyes watching us silently. Kelsie stood there, awkward and unsure, the realization of her poor judgment slowly dawning on her. “I’m really sorry,” she said finally, her voice small. “I didn’t mean… CONTINUE READING…