The Gate Opens

A few seconds pass without a response before the main gate slowly begins to open. I guess whoever runs the gate operation is not one for talking. Taking a deep breath, I step inside, trying my best to **** the obvious analogy of prison bars out of my mind while the gate closes shut behind me. This whole situation just feels so wrong to me. I know that it is basically regular volunteer work, nothing I haven't done before, albeit never to the severity and length of this. I still feel like something isn't quite right though. Maybe it's the lack of clarity surrounding what is actually going to happen or maybe it is the fact that I'm here to pay for the sins of my father. Regardless, I'm here now and there is no going back at this point.

The pathway leading up to the mansion as I would describe is made out of beautifully cut and chiseled stone slabs. Those alone are probably worth more in value than the home I grew up in. The yard isn't very big, especially in comparison to the house but it is more than well maintained with lush green grass and elegantly trimmed hedges. Under different circumstances, I might feel like a fairy tale princess walking into the prince's palace. These people are obviously swimming in wealth, not exactly what I would expect from a business that specializes in rehabilitation. Already I can feel myself beginning to doubt everything I have been told about this company.

As I climb the front steps towards the entryway I am greeted by a decorative front door which appears to be made out some sort of expensive wood, perhaps mahogany. The windows on either side of it are translucent, making it impossible for me to see anything on the inside. Everything else isn't very much out of place from what I would expect given the rest of the property.

All that's left to do now is knock and hope for the best. I pause for a moment to wonder if this is really what I want to do. I might still have a chance to run away now if I'm quick about it. The gate is only about two feet taller than myself and I took gymnastics classes while growing up. It wouldn't be a difficult climb and I'd probably be gone without anyone noticing. I quickly brush aside those foolish thoughts and reassure myself that I've made my choice and I'm here to stay. There is no going back. I am a strong. I can do this. With one last deep breath, I close my eyes and give three steady knocks on the front door.