### My Foster Brother Beat Me Up on My First Day. I Later Realized He Was Protecting Me.
My foster brother beat me up on my first day in their home.
But when the police finally arrived, I discovered the truth.
My name is Grayson. Let me beat you up. Don't ask questions.
He shoved me against the railing, punched me while I curled into a ball, and stole my toy truck. I noticed the bruises on his hands, but I was too scared to understand.
My foster parents came running. Dad dragged Grayson away while Mom bandaged my back.
At dinner, Grayson flicked mashed potatoes into my throat. I started choking.
Dad grabbed him.
"That's it. We're done with you."
They dragged Grayson out of the house.
I watched their car disappear and smiled.
For the first time, I thought someone had chosen me.
The next night, I spilled my water.
My foster mom threw a plate at my head.
"What are you doing, you stupid child? Go to bed!"
The next morning, they forced me to clean the entire house. Dad threatened me with a wooden stick while Mom screamed about the floors.
By lunchtime, my hands were covered in bruises.
Then Dad kicked over my bucket, pulled out his belt, and raised it above his head.
"Please don't hurt me."
Before he could strike,



