I was around 13. It was a beautiful summer afternoon. My dad came home from work and my three siblings ran to greet him in the kitchen, because he often brought home treats.

I remained in the living room watching TV, but after noticing that my siblings hadn't returned, I walked toward the back door. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw my little brother standing stock still in the middle of the basement steps, which were across from the back door.

I started down the stairs and he suddenly...