**Chapter 1: Trapped**

The dimly lit kitchen was a familiar battleground for Amber and Alex, the smell of stale coffee and yesterday's burnt toast hanging heavy in the air. The tension was palpable, and the siblings exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes darting towards the clock on the wall. It was only 6:00 AM, and already the day felt like a chore. Amber, with her messy blonde hair and mischievous grin, leaned against the counter, eyeing her brother Alex with amusement. "Hey, Alex, did you hear the one about the chicken and the egg?" she asked, her voice laced with sarcasm. Alex, his dark hair neatly combed and his eyes a piercing brown, raised an eyebrow. "Not now, Amber. We don't have time for jokes." His expression was stern, but a hint of a smile played on his lips. Amber snorted, rolling her eyes. "Oh, come on. Lighten up. It's not like Mom and... 'him' are going to notice us sneaking around." She spat the word out, her tone dripping with disdain. Alex's expression turned grim, his jaw clenched in anger. Their mother had married her boyfriend, Rick, a few years ago, and life had become a living nightmare. The siblings had grown accustomed to the verbal and physical abuse, but it didn't make it any easier. As they spoke in hushed tones, Amber began to tidy up the kitchen, her movements quick and efficient. Alex watched her, his eyes lingering on the curve of her neck, the way her hair fell in loose waves down her back. He felt a flutter in his chest, a familiar sensation he'd grown all too used to. He'd harbored feelings for his sister for what felt like an eternity, but he knew it was wrong. She was his sister, after all. Amber, oblivious to Alex's gaze, began to rummage through the cupboards, searching for non-perishable food items to stash in their secret hiding spot. "We need to get out of here, Alex," she said, her voice laced with determination. "We can't keep living like this." Alex nodded, his mind racing with plans and strategies. They'd been discussing escape routes and safe houses for months, but it was hard to find the perfect moment to make a move. Their mother was too scared to leave, and Rick had made it clear that anyone who tried to escape would suffer the consequences. As they worked, the sound of footsteps echoed from the hallway, growing louder with each passing second. Amber's eyes met Alex's, a flash of panic crossing her face. "Time to put on a show," she whispered, a fake smile plastered on her face. Alex straightened his shoulders, his expression neutral. They both knew the drill – pretend to be happy, pretend to be oblivious to the abuse. But for how much longer? The question hung in the air, unspoken, as they waited for their mother to enter the kitchen. What happens next?