Lifestyle: In Practice

by María Del Mal  The first time I said it, it was quiet, a soft plea on my lips, “Stop, I want to stop.” He chuckled. He leaned back down kissing my neck and I pressed my hands against his shoulders, “No, I’m serious, stop.”  “Come on,” he sighed. “Don’t be a tease.” I remember freezing, my brain splitting with the decision to stay and play it safe or run, trying to find my best chance at survival. I remember when he shoved his tongue down my throat, my protests died betw

I moaned to survive. I lied to be safe. This isn’t a story about sex—it’s about survival. About what women do to stay alive in a world where men are taught they’re entitled to everything. Even our silence.