"Worthless!"

she screamed, approaching me. "Pathetic, horrible, useless," she spat, each word new venom sliding through her lips, sinking into my soul. "You're the worst child I've ever had!" She continued getting closer until I was pressed against the kitchen table, the wood sinking deep into my back. Tears were cascading hard and fast. I couldn't breathe. I knew I was going to be sick again soon. "I hate you, you stupid girl! I hate you!" Her hand raised, poised in the air, preparing to strike me.
I clenched my teeth and turned my face, hoping her hand would land where I could hide the mark. Her hand sailed through the air. I closed my eyes.
Nothing came.
No pain shot through my face.
I opened my eyes. She'd stopped and was lowering her hand. Her eyes were wide with surprise as though I'd been the one to nearly hit her. She backed away. I unclenched my teeth. She pressed herself against the counter and I veered to the left and ran out through the dining room. My room had never seemed so far away...