#harry dark

Welcome to the beginning of Revenge. In this story you will be shown into the very dark and twisted lives of Raeelynn, Harry, and friends. This story is not for the weak. It will mention some very dark topics and triggering actions. Please use this as a warning, read at your own risk. This story is completely made up by me, and none of the events mentioned in this story is real nor has any of them happened to any of the characters, people that are mentioned, and/or portrayed in this story. This is the second warning that has been made in regards to this story, please be advise to refer back to the Revenge introduction for the full breakdown of what this story will contain. Now without further a do sit back, relax, and enjoy the roller coaster of emotions of Revenge.

Word Count: 4.2k

Warnings: swearing, blood, angst, murder, death.

-

You used to tell me that I could be anything that I wanted to be when I was younger. You would wrap your arms around me and softly kiss my hair before whispering, "Raee promise me that you will always fight for your dreams. No dream is too big or too stupid. So promise me."

The naïve little girl underneath you would smile fully up at you before holding out her pinky and whispering, "I promise. Just for you."

I trusted you completely. I trusted that you would keep me safe. I believed you so easily back then. I was so blinded by you that I had no choice but to let your storytelling distract me from what you were really planning.

It used to be so simple back then. Life used to feel so magical as a kid. Telling yourself that everything is reachable and that one day I could be everything I ever dreamed of. When you get older you realize nothing will ever be that simple again. Well, now all I wanted to be was free. Free of the misery I feel. Free of the pain. Free of my haunted nightmares. Free of the constant reminder that I am not good enough. That I will never be good enough.

I just want to be free. To not feel like this anymore. I hate you. I hate you for making me believe that I could be anything. That I could go out and obtain anything my mind and heart ever wanted because all you did was set me up for failure. You didn't prepare me for the real world. You just kept encouraging me to live in a fantasy that will only turn into a nightmare.

And where are you now? Nowhere to be found. You left me in the moments I needed you the most. You left me all alone to deal with him. To deal with the aftermath of something I never created. You abandoned me and forced me to become someone I never wanted to be.

I used to miss you, and now all I do is hate you.

I hate how I was left with nothing but misery when you escaped and forgot to take me with you.

You don't know what he does to me. You don't know what he allows to happen to me. I want to believe that you didn't know what your actions would cause when you left. I used to tell myself that you didn't because if you did you wouldn't have left me behind. You would have come back and rescued me by now, but I've learned the hard way. You aren't coming. You did know, and you just didn't care. Nobody cares.

Nobody ever car-

"Okay everybody that wraps up today's class. For those of you still working on your thoughts, please finish up your free writing and if you'd like to leave your notepad on my desk, please do so. I will make sure to get them back to you at the start of next week. Don't forget that you have your written essay due on Monday. I expect everyone to have it completed and peer-reviewed by three peers along with your final draft when you turn it in. No exceptions. Have a great weekend!" Professor Tilly states as she stands from her desk, drawing me out of my daze. Glancing around the room watching others pack up their belongings and making their way out of the lecture hall, I begin to grab my things. Slowly marking my journal I close it and slide it deep into my bag.

"Ms. Scott, a word before you leave?" Professor Tilly speaks up as she makes eye contact with me. Her lips smack as her tongue slowly traces the outline of her mouth. Panic sets in. I glance down at my watch. 3:45 pm. I can't be late.

"Yeah sure." I manage to say as I quickly stand up and sling my bag over my shoulder and make my way to her desk. My body goes rigid as I feel myself begin to spiral in panic.

My fingernails slightly dig into my palm as I clench my hands. I can feel the heat radiating off my back as I try to come up with a good enough excuse to use in case she tries to keep me. I can't be late. I can't be late.

"How is the semester treating you?" She asks as she moves back behind her desk and sits on the edge. Her tight skirt slowly slides up her thighs as her hands catch my attention. She’s adjusting the pens in the pen holder that sits on the left corner of the wooden desk.

My chest constricts. My breathing hitches deep in my lungs. They feel like they are about to explode. Not only from the lack of oxygen, but from the pressure of trying to remain calm so she doesn’t catch on. I know where she is going with this. My hand gripping the bag slightly tighter than before.

"It’s uh- it’s going good. I'm enjoying it, Professor." I whisper as I slightly wince at the feeling of my nails digging a little deeper into my palm. Relax. I need to take a deep breath and relax. I can't be late. My eyes divert back down to the black notebooks on her desk.

"You have yet to leave your notes for review," she states. My heartbeat picks up. I fidget with the strap on my bag trying to avoid her eye contact.

"Uh yes, I know. I thought it wasn't a requirement that it gets reviewed by you. I thought-" I started off but was quickly interrupted.

"No, no of course not. I meant it when I said at the beginning of the term. These notepads are for your own personal progress through this class. Almost all of your peers have turned theirs in at least once to get guidance on their progress, and you have yet to do so once. I just wanted to check in and make sure that you have no questions in regards to it." She says as she catches my eye.

Shaking my head as my lip finds its way in between my teeth.

"I’m fine, thank you. I just like to keep my thoughts private," I explain as I sway back and forth slightly. My thoughts are more dark and twisted. They are far too gone to share with anyone except myself, but she doesn’t need to know that. She nods her head in agreement, not knowing the full depth of my darkness.

"Most writers do that. Some prefer the guidance of a village while writing and others are a bit more private when it comes to their thoughts and writing progress. I understand completely. Well, in that case, please have a wonderful weekend, and I look forward to reading your essay on Monday," she states as a chuckle leaves her lips. Giving a small wave, I make my way towards the door quickly glancing down at my watch. 3:58 pm. Shit, I'm going to be late.

Picking up my pace, I quickly make my way out of the lecture hall and across the campus to my car.

***

"Casey it's not that simple," I say with a chuckle as I grab ahold of the stepping ladder and slowly climb up to put the last few books back on the shelf.

"I don't see how it's not Raeelynn. Clearly, he likes you as he keeps coming into the store at the same time every day just to get a small glance at you. Don't be naïve and say that you don't see the way that he smirks at you," my best friend, Casey says with a laugh as she walks behind the ladder and holds up a few more books for me to grab and put away.

Shaking my head, I take one book at a time and gently place them on the shelf.

"All I'm saying is it won't hurt that tomorrow when he walks in you simply just say hi. He's been coming in for a few weeks now and you've yet to even speak to him. The poor mate keeps trying to bait me for information on you. I give him credit though he hasn't given up," Casey says as she slightly taps my arse making us both slightly lose balance, me more so than her.

"I've told you time and time again that I am in no place to date or even entertain the idea of dating someone right now. I have too much on my plate. Therefore, I have no reason to talk to him," I state as I slowly make my way down the stepping ladder and make my way to the back of the store to throw the empty box away. Casey huffs in annoyance but follows me.

"Look, you've said that for the past two years. Don't you think it's time to get back on the horse and try again? I know Logan really messed with your head, but babe you've come a long way. Maybe it's time to start letting someone in to help you take some of your stress away." She gently laces her arm with mine and pulls me to a stop. Taking a deep breath we both glance at each other.

"You know that it has nothing to do with Logan, and no one will ever be able to help take my stress away. Plus I’m not going to rely on someone else to help me with any of my stress. All I have is myself. I’ve definitely learned that the hard way."

"Why do you think that way? Why do you think that you are unsavable? Raeelynn, you are amazing, and anyone would be lucky enough to have you. Fight for you." Her eyes get softer and she gives me a gentle squeeze. If only she knew the truth.

Sighing, I pull her in for a hug, "thanks, Cas. I appreciate you. I just can't do it right now. There are things that can't and will not change, so there is no point in trying. At least right now.” She holds me back and I gently lay my head against her shoulder, wishing things could be different. But I know that they will never be any different than they are right now. I wish I could tell you everything, friend. I really do, but it will only ruin you too and I can't drag you down into hell with me. You're too good for it. Forcing a smile onto my face, I pull away but keep her at arm's distance.

“All right let's get the rest of these books stocked or Gloria will have our arses." I say, causing us both to laugh as we make our way into the back room.

***

"Okay, so your total comes out to be $46.53. Would you like me to bag up these items for you in paper or plastic?" I ask as I gather up the books that were just purchased. Taking a deep breath and glancing at the clock, I try to hold back my nerves as the time is getting closer to closing. Today went by too fast.

"Um, plastic will be fine, thank you." The customer states as she continues to rummage through her purse trying to find the exact amount of change for her bill. I quickly bag up the items and print off her receipt, wishing her a good night. Picking up a few misplaced things, I take my time putting them back in their rightful homes as I avoid looking at the clock.

"Alright dear, that does it for me. I'm going to head out for the night. Are you sure you'll be okay to stay by yourself? I know I sent Casey home earlier, but if you need me to stay with you, I don't mind. It's pretty dark out and I wouldn't want anything to happen to you, dear." A soft and gentle voice whispers behind me. I couldn't help but smile as a warm feeling of comfort spread through my body. She was always so worried about me closing up the shop all by myself, but I know how to handle my own. I definitely made sure of it too. More like forced to.

"Yes, of course. You go ahead and head out. I'm sure I can handle it. It won't take me too long, so you have nothing to worry about." We both make our way to the front of the store and begin to close the blinds on the windows. Smiling back at me, she gently pulls me in for a tight squeeze.

"Okay, well, you have my home phone if anything were to go wrong. There are a few boxes in the back that I didn't get to do today. If you wouldn't mind putting out the new merchandise to help stock up for the big sale tomorrow?" She asked as I followed her out to the curb and watched her as she gathered up her keys.

"Yes, of course. I will have everything all set up for you, and I will make sure to call if I need you. Now go on and get home before I have Richard blowing up the store phone asking me why you are late for your Friday dinner!" I chuckle as I shoo her towards her car. She laughs a contagious laugh as she gets in and pulls away.

Shaking my head as I make my way back into the store, making sure to lock the door behind me. I get to work on unboxing the new shipment of books. After what felt like forever, I finally finished going through all the clearance books. I replace them with the new, upcoming author and make sure to place the proper coupons out on the display.

After breaking down all the boxes and placing them in the back room, I go through the store and turn off all the lamps and lights and take one last glance around to make sure I didn't miss anything. I finished cashing out the registers, stocking the shelves, and getting the displays set up for tomorrow. Taking a deep breath I, unfortunately, cannot stall anymore. Gathering up my belongings, I make my way to the back door and lock up.

Heading down through the alleyway behind the bookstore, I dig in my purse for my keys. I source through each and every pocket and I can’t seem to find them. I make a mental note to switch out bags once I get back to the apartment because I can't handle the stress of losing my keys. It's not helping that this alleyway is poorly lit and I have to stop to use my phone flashlight. Finally, after taking every single item out of my purse I found the bloody bastards at the bottom of the bag. Recollecting myself, I begin to walk again only to stop dead in my tracks only after a few steps. There are a few loud bangs and thuds echoing around me causing me to slowly look around.

Nothing seems out of the ordinary. There’s the usual dumpster, a very skinny, homeless cat that looks like it has to have at least 3 diseases, and darkness. Rounding the corner, just a few yards away from where I was standing, there was a really nice black Mercedes. That wasn't there a moment ago. I slowly start to walk again. A cold chill worked its way down my spine causing me to shiver and pull my jacket closer to my body. The crisp air is getting the best of me once again.

"Johnson, this is your last chance. Where the hell is my shit?" A deep, raspy voice shouts, clearly pissed.

"Lo-look I just need a little bit more time to... to get the rest of it. That's all." A shaky and very whiny voice responds.

I slowly and very quietly take a few steps forward, trying to get a better view of where the voices are coming from. I peek up over the dumpster, finally able to see who the voices belong to. Two guys are standing at the back end of the Mercedes, one taller than the other. The taller one is slender, but with a muscular body. His hair is untamed as his dark unruly curls go in every direction. The smaller one is scruffy, very skinny, and looks like he hasn't bathed in weeks. His hair is all chopped up and greasy. The taller one is holding the shorter one by the collar of his shirt. I try to squint my eyes, hoping to get a better look at the two, unable to make out their faces from how dark the alleyway is.

"I have already given you two weeks. Two weeks over your deadline. Johnson, you fucked me over and I never give second chances." He says through clenched teeth as he pulls Johnson up off the ground and in the air.

"No... no, I didn't fuck you over, Styles, I swear! I just had something come up and I had to use the money, but I swear, I'll get it back to you. Just give me one more day, please!" Johnson begs as his legs involuntarily swing back and forth. Styles lets go of him, dropping him on his arse. Styles looks down at him without saying a thing for a moment or two.

"You are a piece of scum. You weasel your way through life thinking that you can get away with every bloody thing," Styles spits as he kneels down so he is face to face with him. The smaller guy tries to scoot away but doesn't get far, as he is met with the dead end of the brick wall behind him.

"Please. I swear I can get every penny. If Robin was here, he would understand. I just need more time." There was a pause. What the hell am I doing? I’m standing here like an idiot watching this shit. I must be losing my mind. I begin to back away but, I’m once again, drawn back in. A deep chuckle flows through the air and I see Styles throw his head back in laughter.

"Bloody hell. You must be really fucking stupid. Did you really just say that to me? Compare me to Robin? Well, guess what? Robin isn't here. What makes you think that I would actually care what he would have done? Let me tell you why I don't care. Low lives like you are what is causing the destruction. I'm here to clean up the mess Robin made," Styles sneers as he stands back up and quickly runs his hand through his curls. He slowly turns around and faces my direction causing me to quickly duck behind the dumpster. Licking his lips, he turns back on his heel.

"Get out of my face. This is your last warning. If you don't have my money by tomorrow, you'll have a bullet with your name on it. Trust me. I never miss what I aim at," Styles says through clenched teeth. Johnson gets up and starts to speed walk in the opposite direction, but before he can make it far there's a loud bang. His body slowly falls to the wet ground as the blood seeps through his dirty clothes. I gasp and drop to my knees.

My eyes grow big. My stomach drops. I feel sick to my stomach at what's in front of me. His body lying lifeless in front of me. I hear footsteps getting closer to me and the body. I freeze not knowing whether to move or not. Styles pushes the body over with ease by the tip of his shoe. The body flips so he's now laying on his back. He leans down and quickly pulls a phone out of his pocket.

"It's Styles. I need a cleanup on the corner of Blackburn and Lisbon. Be discreet and hurry. We don't need this getting out. Tell Robin the job is done. I'll be there in fifteen." With that, he ends the call. Standing up from his crouching position he continues to stare down at the scrawny, blood-soaked body.

"Scum like you is what makes this job fun." He unlocks the black Mercedes before reaching in the dead guy's pockets pulling something out and twiddling it between his fingertips. I can't tell what it is, but seeing by the look on his face, it’s clearly something important. I gasp with horror as the warm crimson blood slowly makes its way closer to the tip of my shoes. I quickly cover my mouth, my gaze shoots up in hopes he didn’t hear my stupid mistake. My eyes widen and my stomach begins to twist into knots as the man I just witnessed murder another person looks me dead in the eyes. I feel the color drain out of my face. His stare doesn’t leave mine as they dilate and become coal black. Well fuck. Do I run? Do I scream? Both? Oh hell, what if he murders me next.

My body goes completely numb as he begins to take steps toward me. I have to run or I'm going to end up just like that man lifeless on the ground. I quickly turn and run the opposite way. I don't even look back to see if he is behind me. I just keep running. Getting closer to the street lights. My legs are getting tired, but I keep pumping them. My adrenaline is sky-high as I feel my heart pounding in my chest. Heavy footsteps are behind me.

I’m gasping for air, and my legs are getting tired but I must keep running. Internally cruising myself for always skipping gym days. My chest feels like it is getting tighter and tighter by the second. My lungs feel like they are about to catch fire at any second. Flashes of the dead man and all his blood keep replaying in my head as it gets harder for me to breathe. There’s a corner coming up, and I see the Chinese Takeout sign from the place I always order food from. I'm on fifty-second street!! Oh sweet Jesus there's a police station just a block away!

I press my legs harder and faster giving it the last of my energy. I need to stay alive. I need to get to the station. His footsteps are getting closer and closer to me. I'm trying to run faster but my tired legs won't let me. My breathing has gotten worse. Deeper. Harsher. My body is tired but I'm almost there. I see the street light getting brighter and brighter the closer I get.

Finally, I reach the corner, quickly turning and pressing my legs even harder. I keep replaying that dead man's picture in my mind. That's going to be you Raeelynn if you don't run faster.

Maybe I should stop. Maybe he'll listen when I tell him that I won't tell the cops. That I'll act as if I didn't see anything. That I was never even in the alleyway, to begin with. I know I am being delusional. There is no way in hell that he is going to just let me walk away from this alive. Especially because that’s what everyone says in this situation and they always go to the damn cops. He won’t believe me. Shit, I wouldn’t even believe myself.

Keep running. You don't want to die! You have your whole life ahead of you! Not like my life is something I want to keep living, but I guess anything is better than dying. I try to pump my legs harder, faster even, but it seems like no matter how hard I try they won't go any faster. I feel like I am moving in slow motion at this point. I see the station just ahead of me but no matter how hard I push my tired legs it never gets closer. Just as I am about to reach the front steps, I'm roughly grabbed and yanked to a stop.

"If you even make the slightest bloody peep I will kill you. Do you understand?" His rugged voice said close to my ear. I felt his harsh breathing down my neck as his grip on my elbow grew tighter. I slowly nodded my head as I tried to regain my breathing. I force myself to remember all the great times I've had in the short 22 years of my life. There weren't many, but there were some.

I don’t dare say a word as tears slide down my cheeks. He remains quiet as he drags me back down the road, cautiously looking in every direction. We reach the dark alley and he pulls me past the body, towards his car. It takes everything in me not to vomit all over my shoes as my eyes can’t seem to leave his lifeless body as I pass.

Word count: 5.3K

Warnings: angst, mention on slight stalking, mention of blood, mention of past death, I take no claim in owning the pictures used in this story along with the people mentioned in this story.

Authors note: Hello lovies! Just wanted to give you a quick introduction to this chapter. Chapter five is a filler chapter, and basically just holds some basic information you, as the reader, will need to continue on with the story of Raeelynn and Harry. Trust me it is about to get ✨ spicy and juicy ✨ with drama. So buckle up and enjoy this short update because chapter six is gonna leave your head spinning!

Spending the entire day laying in bed, eating complete junk, and going over the work that Casey did for me was quite shockingly the one thing I needed the most. I’m quite impressed. For someone who is not taking English literature, she sure knows more than just the basics of the study. Sighing as I finally finish reading over her notes and the peer review she did for my assignment, I close my laptop and begin to gather up the loose papers that I have spread out across my bed. Clicking the pen in my hand over and over again, I lean back and stretch out my muscles. I think over the last few days. Staring blankly at the ceiling, I trace over the swirl patterns in the plaster above me. I lay there trying to convince myself that it wasn’t real. It never happened. Getting up out of bed, I make my way to the opposite side of my room. It had to have happened, or you wouldn’t have been late. You wouldn’t have owed a debt. Standing face to face with the closet door, the thought of if I really wanted to look played over and over again. I could simply go back to my bed and keep them hidden deep in the bottom of my closet and forget they exist. But that just isn’t possible..

Taking a step back and fidgeting with my fingers, I go over the facts that I know are to be true. There were three of us. The blood soaking through the tips of my shoes. His lifeless body laying there. The way he stood above him as if he meant nothing to him.

The life that he so easily took. The burning ache in my legs and lungs as I tried to run.

His hands on my body. His grip getting tighter as his chest beat against mine as we tried to regain our breathing.

Fast cars. Tinted windows. Reckless driving.

Green eyes staring into mine. The window. Blondie.

Bloody hell. I really saw a stranger murder someone in cold blood.

Gnawing my lip raw, I push aside the thoughts and open the closet door. Closing my eyes for a brief moment, I give myself one more out. I sigh, crouching down so my knees are on the carpeted floor. I slowly reach my hand in and feel around for them. Soon enough, my hand makes contact and I clasp my fingers around my white vans. Carefully pulling them out, I hold my breath.

Maybe it was just a dream. A nightmare if you will. Surely it didn’t really happen. There will be no blood. You’re just tired and making things up.

I open my eyes slowly and look down at the canvas and rubber in my hands. My breath hitches and my palms get sweaty. My once perfectly white vans are covered in rusty red blood. The material ruined and stained with the memories of that night. The coldness that slid its way down my spine as his lifeless body slowly fell to the ground. The look on his face at the reality that he’d been caught red handed with his crime. The ache of my muscles as I pushed my legs and lungs harder than I ever have before. The darkness of his emerald green eyes getting darker the more he looked at me as I refused to follow his instructions. The nauseated feeling that kept creeping back as the thoughts of whether I would make it out alive or not was on a continuous loop in my head.

How the hell did I witness a murder and make it out alive?

How did they just let me walk away? Surely they will come back for me. They have to. There’s never once been a book that I’ve read where they ever just let the witness leave unscathed and move on with their life as if nothing ever happened. Surely they will be back. Maybe this is their game. How they get off making people go crazy in their own home until they can’t handle it anymore. Not knowing whether they will come back to finish the job or leave you alone. Maybe that’s what he wants. For me to go mad with fear and off myself. Save himself from having another body to clean up right? Count it as a suicide…

I quickly throw the vans into the off my closet and slam the door shut. Leaning against it, I try to regain my breathing. Bloody fucking hell. Raeelynn you just keep digging yourself deeper and deeper don’t you?

The front door opens and slams shut causing my gaze to shoot up and look out into the hallway. Staying silent, I don’t dare move a muscle.

Heavy footsteps echo down the hallway getting closer and closer to the bedroom. Holding my breath, I inch closer against the wall. As my eyes don’t move from the door. Nothing was scheduled. He didn’t have an appointment for me today. My heart beats in my chest like a drum. Blood rushes into my ears. I surely couldn't have forgotten another one. The door knob slowly turns. The person on the other side doesn’t say anything. My lungs are begging for air as I sit and wait.

“Hey Raee, you still up? I stopped by that Thai place that you like. I was thinking we needed a pick me up after our weekend,” Casey calls out as she swings the door open and throws her purse on the floor next to my dresser. My body instantly relaxes and I lean my head back against the wall. “Girl, why are you on the floor looking like you just saw a ghost?” She asks as she holds up the bag full of food. This is why I love her. She doesn’t ask questions. She shows up and supports me with no hesitation. A small smile spreads across my face as I push myself up off the floor and make my way over to her. I engulf her in a tight hug. The force of my body pushes her back a few steps, but she doesn’t hesitate to wrap her arms around me.

“Thank you,” I whisper in her ear as I fully relax against her. The adrenaline coursing through my veins slowly dies down and my heart slowly goes back to its normal rhythm. She stays silent for a second before a chuckle leaves her lips.

“I mean, I love all the attention I’m getting at the moment, but what exactly am I being thanked for?” She asks as she lets me go and heads out to the kitchen. I follow her, sitting down at the bar, waiting as she begins to plate the Thai food.

“For just being you… and for helping,” I say quietly I avoid her gaze as she slides a plate across the counter. It’s silent for a moment before she picks up her plate and points over at the television.

“Binge watching session. Now. Get ready we are going to make that couch our home for quite a while,” She announces, bouncing her way into the living room and flops down on the sofa. She glances over her shoulder at me and throws me a smirk. “C’mon, Raee I am not getting any younger here.” Trying to fight the smirk that’s making its way across my face I shake my head. I follow her example and grab my plate and welcome the distraction that she knew I needed.

***

“Alright, guys. That's a wrap on today’s class. Don’t forget to leave your essays and peer reviews on my desk as you make your way out. I will have them graded for you by next week. Please begin reading and working on the next assignment. Your final writing project will be worth eighty percent of your grade, so you all need to take this seriously. I didn’t give you the entire semester to work on it for nothing. Make sure you utilize the journal you have been keeping. I am available all week if you guys have any questions.” Professor Tilly announces as she ends the class for the day. Students begin packing up their belongings and collecting their assignments and make their way out. Sighing, I follow their lead and make my way towards the front of the class. Dropping the assignments off on her desk, I hurry up and make my way out of the class fighting the crowd in the process. I push open the doors of the literature hall, squinting at the blinding sun, making my way down the steps.

Holding my bag straps tight, I zig zag between people, wanting to just make it to my car before this pound of makeup Casey applied this morning melts off.

“Look you can’t walk up on campus with your face looking like this without people questioning it, and you most definitely can’t say you fell. No one will believe you.” Casey states as she pins me to my bathroom counter. My face in between her hands as she continues to blend everything in. Groaning, I try to move my face back.

“Look Cas. I appreciate all your help but trust me, wearing this much makeup is going to be way worse than a bruise the size of Manchester on my face,” I bargain as I jump down off the counter and turn to look at what the masterpiece she was trying to create.

“Raeelynn Michelle,” Casey scolds, grabbing my shoulders and turning me around to stop me from over analyzing myself in the mirror.

“Okay. Okay. You win. Finish up, though I gotta leave a bit early to stop by the library.” I give up and take my seat back on the counter, letting her finish her work.

Rolling my eyes, I continue my walk through the busy campus. My lip was almost completely healed, surprisingly which gives me one less thing to worry about. I can’t help but feel slightly paranoid that someone is watching me. Glancing over my shoulder, I quickly look around to see if anything is out of the ordinary. Nothing. Just a bunch of college students rushing around. Some are listening to music. Some are on their phones. While others are simply just enjoying the sunshine. Taking a deep breath and shaking my head, I turn back around to continue my journey but run into a brick wall instead. A brick wall with chocolate brown eyes.

“Bloody hell.” I huff, my hands catch my fall scraping against the rough sidewalk.

“Oh my god! I am so sorry. Are you okay?” A deep voice asks as their hand hangs in front of my face, offering to help me up. Furrowing my eyebrows I squint up at the mysterious man. I hesitate for a few moments before placing my hand in his. He gently pulls me up and takes a step back.” I should totally watch where I am going. I am so sorry,” He apologizes again. His eyes scan up and down my body and gives me a lopsided smile. He’s tall. Has dark hair that is perfectly styled up and slightly to the left. His facial hair is neatly trimmed. It compliments him perfectly. Tattoos line up and down his arms, covering any skin that once was bare.

“It’s okay. Totally not your fault. I was the one that just stopped out of nowhere.” I chuckle softly as I gently wipe off the back of my jeans and straighten my shirt out.

“Well, let me make it up to you. Can I buy you a coffee at least? My mum would be so disappointed if I wasn’t the gentleman she raised me to be,” He said a slight chuckle leaves his lips and he lifts his arm up to run his hand through his locks.

“I’m uh actually late for work,” I say as my lip finds its way between my teeth. I can’t help but scan up and down his body. He’s attractive. Nodding slightly, he smirks.

“Maybe another time then? Uh-” He asks as he holds his hand out for me to shake.

“Raeelynn.” I enclose our hands together, gently shaking it.

“I’ll see ya around. Sorry again.” He takes a step back and motions for me to continue. I quickly step around him. He looked oddly familiar, but, for some reason, I can’t place where I have seen him before.

***

“Oh, dear, how are you feeling? Richard and I were so worried when Casey said that you needed the whole weekend off,” Gloria says as she wraps her arms around me and gently sways us back and forth. I rub up and down her back softly as a small smile spreads across my face.

“I’m doing so much better. It must have been something I ate,” I lied. She withdraws her arms from around me, holding me at arms length. I stare at my shoes to avoid her gaze. I can’t help but feel guilty that I left them high and dry this weekend with what was going to be the biggest sale of the year.

“I’m so sorry! I feel terr-” I start off but she cuts me off.

“Now, don’t you dare apologize. You have already done enough for us and this store. You can’t help that you weren’t feeling too well, now, can you, Darling?” Gloria says as her tiny hands move to my cheeks and forces me to look at her. “All that matters is that you are here and feeling better,” She whispers. She gives me a small smile and lets go of my face. I smile back at her, giving a silent thank you before excusing myself to drop my things off in the breakroom.

Inhaling deeply, I welcome the sweet, musky smell of the books surrounding me. Being away from this place for a few days didn’t help the feeling that engulfs me when I am here. The freedom. The way I am so at ease inside these four walls. I’m myself here. I can be whoever I want to be when I am here with no fear of failing. No fear of punishment. No fear of him. I’m grateful for Richard and Gloria giving me the chance to work here. They didn’t need to accept the small, wide eyed, eager girl who showed up at their storefront all but four years ago ready to beg, bribe, and talk her way into a job. I smile to myself as the memory floods my mind. I run my fingers across the row of books absentmindedly as I make my way down the aisle to the back of the store.

I wave at a few of our normal regular customers as I make my way through the store and slightly tidy up along the way even though I’m technically not on the clock. I just can’t help it. The fact that I have not been here for almost two days has created an itch deep inside me. I need to just run through all the aisles, picking up every single book. Set up displays. Talk to customers about the new hot author is at the moment. To just be here and soak up as much normalcy as I can. It’s the one place I can really be me.

I quickly type in the code for the back room and throw my belongings on the chair. I clock in then head back out to the floor. I rummage through the collection of books that customers changed their minds on before purchasing. Grabbing one of the small book trolleys, I grab a few books and neatly stack them by genre. Making sure they all still have the correct price sticker, I fill the cart up and start to work my way aisle by aisle putting the books back in their rightful place.

I’m on my third trolley before I notice the same weird “someone-is-watching-me” feeling from earlier work its way back up my spine. The air around me seems to chill as I place another hardback book on the shelf. Glancing over my shoulder, I squint and look down the row. Taking a deep breath, I shake my head slightly brushing the thought away and get back to work. Grabbing a few more books off the trolley, I grab the step stool, and place it in front of the non-fiction section. I run my fingers up and down the spine of the top book, welcoming the rough service. I bring it up to my nose and inhale deeply. The smell of new books invades my senses causing a smile to form on my lips before placing them in their rightful place on the shelf.

Grabbing the shelf for levage, I stretch to try and pick up a book that was left laying down. I balance myself on the shelf as my tip toes balance my body on the stool. My fingertips barely brush the paperback as I stretch with everything in me to reach it. Groaning, I finally give up and decide that I will just have to move the stool over a few inches to reach it.

“Need a hand?” A deep voice calls out behind me. Quickly turning on my heel, I lose my balance. The step stool jolts back and forth underneath me. Gravity wins and I reach out for anything to stop me from falling backwards but fail. I brace myself for the hard landing but it never comes. The fall feels infinite until I feel warmth surrounding my body. Arms hold onto me tightly, holding me hostage. My heartbeat pounds in my ears as the adrenaline courses its way through my veins.

I slowly open my eyes, not knowing what to expect. I slowly look around me before following the lines of the arms that have found home around my body. My eyebrows furrow as I try to wrap my head around what is happening.

“You alright? Didn’t mean to scare ya,” The brown eyed boy from earlier asks as he smiles down at me.

“Are you following me?” I ask in shock. I quickly remove myself from his grasp. He frowns down at me and he stays silent. I run my hands up and down my body fixing my uniform of any wrinkles. I quickly looked around in hopes no one saw what just happened.

“Are you just going to stand there gawking at me or are you going to answer?” I demand as I take a step back distancing myself from him. He chuckles under his breath as he leans up and grabs the book I was previously reaching for and holds it out to me before leaning against the bookshelf.

“Sassy one, aren’t ya?” He laughs as if he just made a joke. He notices me not reaching for the book and he gently lays it down on the trolley before running his fingers through his hair. “I’m looking for a book. This is a bookstore innit? I don’t necessarily believe that leads to inquiries of following someone,” He shrugs as a smirk soon finds its way onto his face. Running my tongue over my teeth, I contemplate his response.

“You were at my school. You asked me to get coffee with you. I said no. Now, you are here. At the place that I work. What are the coincedences of that? There are plenty of other bookstores in the area, so I will ask again. Are you following me?” I tuck a piece of fallen hair behind my ear and reach for the trolley.

“Books’n’Realities is the closest bookstore to where I live. Plus, it is the only store that is currently in stock of the book I need,” He explains as he makes his way in front of the trolley stopping my movements.

“What book is that exactly?” I ask with a raise of my eyebrows. He licks his lips as he looks down.

“Okay, so you got me. I wasn’t intentionally following you, but I fancy you. I have for a while. And when I ran into you today I kind of thought that this was my moment to talk to you,” He admits as he slowly lifts his gaze back up to meet mine. I’m at a loss for words. Everything is finally falling into place the more I take in his appearance. He’s the guy. The guy Casey was talking about. The one who comes in and sits up front and asks her about me.

A chuckle of disbelief leaves my lips as I move the trolley to the left of him and continue down the aisle.

“You’re unbelievable. Let me save you time and energy. I am not interested. Clearly you didn’t get the memo when I never spoke to you before as you tried to harass my friend for information. I bet the whole “running into me” today was a total gateway in your pea brain. News flash! That is creepy and quite frankly unacceptable. Get a new hobby and leave me and any other women you might have done this to alone.” I seethe glaring at him. I decided to leave the trolley behind and just get away from him. He steps in front of me once again, blocking me in. His eyes turn from the rich chocolate brown to coal black. His stare doesn’t falter as he takes a step forward, causing me to take a step back. He lifts his hand up to graze his fingertips along my cheekbone. He slowly leans closer causing his breath to hit the side of my neck.

“Trust me. You rather it be me watching you than any one of the others. I’m the nicer one of the pack.” He whispers, causing the hair on the back of my neck to stand straight up. My face falls. Pack? Without even a second ticking by, his presence is gone from my personal space. Looking up at him my eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

“Wha-” I start but he interrupts me once again.

“Don’t ask questions. Just keep to your normal routine and nothing will happen.” He threatens as he slowly backs away, turning on his heel and makes his way down the aisle. He stops right before the end. He glances at me with a smirk “Oh, and I have a message for you. He has something of yours. He will be by to deliver it in due time.” He goes to turn back around. Taking a step forward, curiosity gets the best of me.

“Who are you? Who are you talking about?” I question.

“The names Liam,” He declares as he pulls his jacket closer to his body.

“What do you have of mine?” I demand, taking another step in his direction. He holds his hand up, stopping me. With a tilt of his head, he once again smirks at me.

“You know the saying ‘curiosity killed the cat’?” He whispers. Nodding my head, my lip finds its way in between my teeth.

“Trust me. You’re gonna wanna be alive for it. All I can say is make sure that friend of yours isn’t in your apartment, or he’ll change his mind.” Before I can even comprehend what has happened Liam is gone in the blink of an eye and I am left standing alone curious and terrified of what the hell is going on.

Trying to finish my shift at the bookstore was anything but easy. My mind raced a million miles a minute with everything that has taken place these last couple days. Trying to get lost in my work seemed difficult as I tried to start a new project. I would zone out with all the possibilities of how Liam knew who I was, why he had been following me, and why the hell he had spent so many weeks hounding Casey about me. In the process of trying to remain calm, I had knocked over two displays of new releases, forgot to put price tags on the new arrivals that needed stocked, nearly tripped over the mop bucket as Gloria and I were finishing up the closing chores for the night.

“Dear, are you alright? Do you still feel ill? You haven’t been yourself all day,” Gloria asks as she places the back of her hand along my forehead. A small smile works its way across my face. Nodding slightly, I grasp her hand and give it a gentle squeeze.

“Yes, I will be fine. Just been a long day, that's all. No need to worry about me.” I assure her quietly. I gather up my belongings and slide my arms into my jacket sleeves. Reaching for my backpack, I quickly stuff some of my school work back in and begin to zip it. “Hey, you haven’t happened to see a small, black journal laying around, have you Gloria?” I ask as I sling the straps over my shoulders. Turning slightly to glance over her shoulder, she takes a moment to think about it. Her eyebrows furrow as she sets the price gun down on the counter top and turns to lean her back side against it.

“No, I haven’t, unfortunately. Why? Have you lost one?” She asks as her arms cross over her chest. Worry consumes her facial expression as she frantically moves her glance across the room. Straightening up, I adjust my jacket and the loose pieces of hair that lay in my face. I look around the break room one last time.

“Uh, yeah. I seem to have misplaced it. It’s for a school assignment and I can’t find it anywhere. No worries, it's probably in the back of my car or stuffed on one of my bookshelves at home,” I lie. She nods her head before pushing herself off the counter and walking over to me, pulling me into a tight hug.

“Alright. Well you get on home now. It’s getting late and Casey mentioned that you had a big assignment due today so you must be worn out. I’ll finish up here and have Richard come and get me once I am finished. Hopefully you find your journal, Dear. I’ll keep an eye out here for it as well.” She says as she backs away, holding me at arms length. I give her a small smile before saying my goodbye. I make my way up to the front of the store, but stop myself before grabbing the handle. I turn towards the back exit.

No, Raeelynn. Don’t even think about it! You know what happened last time.

Gulping, I take a deep breath and make my way to the back door. I fight the urge to just leave through the front door and head home. My hands hover over the door handle, debating with my subconscious on if I really wanted to go through with what I know I need to. Making the rash decision and pushing the door open, I welcome the cool wind that brushes against my burning skin. Deja vu takes over as that night consumes my thoughts again. I make my way into the dark. Coming near the dumpster, I see nothing but an empty alleyway. Holding my breath, I round it, waiting to see his lifeless body still on the ground. My eyes grow in disbelief.

My heart stops beating. There is absolutely no fucking way.

The body is gone.

The blood is gone.

No evidence to prove what happened that night was actually real. The adrenaline from that night pulses through my veins once again. The chill of watching his body fall in slow motion to the ground consumes me. I picture the blood soaking through the concrete and through my shoes. Kneeling down, my fingertips gently grazed the rough ground where his body laid. Where his blood flowed. Glancing over at where the tinted black Mercedes sat, there is just an empty street. Not even the tire tracks from Harry flooring it away from there. Surely there should be some trace. Surely someone would have found the body and reported it to the police. Now that I think about it, I haven’t seen anything about a missing person. Or even a murder on the news.

I quickly stand and make my way out of the dark cold alleyway, heading towards the light. Gripping my keys tighter between my fingers, I make my way home through the empty night. The slight burn of my calves draw me out of my daydream as the muscles scream for me to slow down. I was speed walking without realizing it. Glancing over my shoulder, I try to rid my mind of the thoughts that someone was still watching me. I let out a breath I was holding as I see my building come up into view. Basically running the last few yards, I throw open the glass door and take the steps two at a time until I reach the third floor.

Fighting with the keys in my hand, I struggle with finding the right one to fit the door knob. My hands shake as I find the right key, slide it in, and twist it open. Stepping in and quickly closing the door behind me I lock it and throw my stuff on the floor. Relief floods my body as I welcome the safety of my home. Taking a few steps in, my hand searches blindly for the light switch. The kitchen fills with light and I make my way to the fridge in search of something quick and easy to eat before I throw myself into bed.

"Well, you’re home early," A deep, raspy, familiar voice calls out. I see a shadow move out of the corner of my eye. My body goes rigid. I grip the door handle tighter. My breath hitches in the back of my throat and I glance to where I keep my kitchen knives. "I wouldn't do that if I were you." He warns. His voice becomes louder, closer, and deeper, "I heard you met a friend of mine tonight. Glad to see that you received my message." Harry says as he wraps his fingers around my wrist and slowly removes it from the fridge door.

"What do you want?" I ask. My voice is rough and scratchy. "I didn't go to the police. I kept my word." I whisper as tears pool in my eyes, threatening to fall. I knew this was gonna happen. I knew that he would come back for me and finish what he started. I clear my throat and slowly turn to face green eyes staring down at me. He corners me against the counter, letting out a loud laugh.

"I wasn't worried in the slightest whether you would go to the police or not. They wouldn't have believed you anyways." He taunts as he takes a step back, flinging his long limbs onto the counter. He crosses his legs and his fingers grip the edge of the granite. He leans forward.

His eyes never leave mine. I don't answer him. We just continue our silent stare down. I lick my lips and try to control my rapid heart beat.

"What do you want with me?" I ask. I keep my tone hushed, afraid anything louder will cause him to snap. I take a step forward, hesitantly glancing around my apartment trying to plan my escape.

"Don't worry about anything else other than keeping your normal routine," Harry says as he runs his fingers along the outside of his mouth with a shrug. "I had something of yours. I return what isn't mine. It's only fair." He jumps down off the counter and walks towards the front door, totally ignoring my question.

"Better lock up. Wouldn't want strangers wandering into places they shouldn't be. It's a dangerous world we live in, Raeelynn," Harry teases as he quickly opens the door and steps out without another glance in my direction. Stunned and confused, I quickly ran to the door and locked it. Deadbolt and all.

Word count: 6.1k

Warnings: mention of domestic abuse, slight mention of blood, gory body images, angst, flash backs to childhood memories, sexual encounters ( m -receiving), slight mention of unwanted sexual activities. I’m honestly not sure if there is anymore, but if you see anything please don’t hesitate to inform me and I will update accordingly!

Enjoy lovies!

Raeelynn’s POV

Groaning, I force my sore, and tired body up the last two steps before I finally make it to my floor. Gripping the ends of my coat sleeves, I take a deep breath as I force myself down the long hallway until I am face to face with the light grey door that leads to my apartment. I reach into my pocket and pull out my keys, welcoming the cold sting of the metal on my fingertips. I slide the key into the door handle, wanting nothing more than to take a long, hot shower, climb into bed, and forget tonight ever happened. My mind is still running a mile a minute as I look over my shoulder before quickly swinging my door open. I hurry up and step in, closing the door behind me, making sure to lock the handle and the deadbolt.

“Where the hell have you been?” A deep cold voice rings through the dark room. My eyes grow wide as the color drains from my face. Fuck. I take a step back, my back comes in contact with the cold door. Silence fills the room as I realize who is waiting for me. This can’t be happening. Bracing myself for what is about to come, my eyes swell with tears as I slowly slide my hand up the wall to find the light switch. I squint at the sudden brightness before forcing my gaze in his direction.

“Do you know what you caused me to lose tonight? Did you forget the arrangement that was made when I allow you to do the things that you do? You are taking advantage of my kindness, Raeelynn, and I will not allow it.” He seethes as he gets off of the stool and slams the cold beer bottle onto the countertop. The condensation slides down the glass bottle and lands on the marble.

“I’m sorr-” I start to whisper before he stops me.

“Shut up! I don’t want your excuses! I don’t want to hear a bloody fucking peep out of you.” He yells from across the room before making his way over to where I am standing. He grabs a fist full of my hair forcing me to look him in the eyes. His face moves closer to mine and I can smell the stale beer on his breath.

“You know the rules. You missed an appointment and you owe a debt.” He spits through clenched teeth. Anger radiates off him. My heart rate picks up as I know what is coming. I close my eyes, waiting for his next move. “Lucky for you, your appointment agreed to wait. Once you pay your debt to him you will pay your debt to me.” He whispers. His breath hits my cheek.

Hot tears fall down my cheeks. He jerks me away from the door and throws me down the hallway. A loud thud echoes through my small apartment as my head feels the rough texture of the carpet. The ruggedness of it scratches the side of my face. I brace my hands under me and try to push myself up off the floor. “You have ten minutes. Don’t make me look stupid.” He towers over me. I get to my feet before making my way to the bedroom. My hand hits the handle but his voice stops me in my tracks. I refuse to turn and meet his gaze. “Raeelynn? You fuck this up and you won’t see the light of day again. Do you understand? You don’t want a repeat of last time.”

***

Pulling the loose strands of hair that have fallen in my eyesight back behind my ear, I quickly remove the ice pack from my face. Staring at myself in the mirror, I don’t even recognize the girl staring back at me. The dark bags under her eyes are sunken making the redness in them pop. The dark bruise that covers the whole right side of her face is different shades of purple and blue. The outline of a hand is prominent along the cheekbone. It’s sure to be swelled tomorrow. My eyes work themselves down her body.

Her lips are already swollen and dark maroon from the dried blood that slowly seeped its way out of the slice from the corner of her mouth. Her shirt has fallen off her shoulder as its collar was torn in half. Reaching up my fingers capture the ripped cloth and gently place it back in its rightful place. I wince at the pain shooting through my arm. A cut works its way down from my elbow to the middle of my forearm. Must have happened from the fall. At least that is what she will tell anyone who notices and starts to ask questions.

“Yes, a fall. I am very uncoordinated and clumsy. I know, I should really watch where I am going,” I rehearse as I bend down and pull the first aid out from under the bathroom sink. Deciding to just wipe it clean with an alcohol wipe and place a bandage over it, I set down the ice pack on the edge of the sink. Once finished, I make my way back down the hallway, following the low-lit way to the bedroom, leaving the mess for future me to take care of. Crawling into bed and surrounding myself deep in the safety of the covers I fight back the tears that threaten to fall at any moment. Curling into a ball, I can’t fight anymore. My body is exhausted and I give in to the overwhelming feeling bubbling inside of me. I am tired. I am barely holding on. I let the tears fall until I run out and the only thing that is left is the emptiness that is always with me.

I lay there in the darkness as my eyes slowly fall shut, not wanting to feel the burning sensation anymore. The silence soon invades my space and I can’t stop the tightness from spreading across my chest. My mind roams to the place I go when I sink this deep. When I am far too gone to do anything but lay here and wish that things were different. With my eyes closed and my body wrapped tightly in my arms, I force myself to picture anything good left in this world. It’s not much but anything, even a sliver of something, is better than what I am used to. Even if it is made up.

I pray that sleep doesn’t find me soon because I don’t think that I can handle the visions that will take over when I can’t protect myself.

We don’t always get what we want now, do we?

***

“Get down on your knees. Now!” He yells as a hand forces me down on the ground. I’m face to face with something foreign.

I force myself and my thoughts to go to my happy place…

-

It's warm and sunny. The sun is beating down on us as we lay in the dark green grass. Welcoming the smell of the flowers we planted in the backyard along the fence. The sun rays cover your face as you look over at me and smile.

“Isn’t this lovely, Raee?” You ask as your hand reaches up and points at a funny-looking cloud. Your laugh fills the air but only for a moment before you guide me to sit up. “Promise me, Raee. Promise me that you will listen and be good?” You ask as I close my eyes tilting my head back once again welcoming the warm rays beating down on us. I’m not sure what you mean by that, so to get you to focus back on the warm sunny day I reach over and grab your hand and give it a slight squeeze.

“I wish this lasted longer, but it never does. I wish the sun would always stay out. I hate when it’s dark and cold,” I whisper as I slowly open my eyes to look over at you. You just give me a small smile before you pull me in close and kiss the top of my head.

“I know love. You’ve always struggled with the dark,” You whispered as we gently laid back down in the grass. “I’ve got you though. I will always have you, Raeelynn.” Your tone hushed as we lazily stare up at the clouds.

-

It’s not fair that I am stuck here with no way out. Not since you left me. Left me to deal with this. To have to give pieces of myself to people who don’t deserve them.

My happy place soon fades as his voice rings through my ears.

“You will do as you’re told young lady. Do you understand me?” He spits and grabs my face, forcing me to look up at him. I stay silent. I don’t understand why he is doing this. His hand makes contact with my face and I’m flung to the floor. My hands automatically rush to my face and I feel the sting radiate across my cheeks. “I asked you a question and I expect an answer. Now, your appointment will be here any minute and there will be no funny business. Do what we discussed. You will behave or you will have hell to pay,” He states once again but this time he slows down his speaking to get his point across. He walks out of my view.

I lay there, my hand clutching my cheek. A door opens and a new voice appears. There are mumbles between them. Words I can’t make out at the moment. I quickly wipe my eyes and sit up adjusting myself to look presentable. They get to me, though, I don’t see them. Just their feet. I refuse to glance up. I refuse to meet their gaze. The stranger speaks first.

“Sure is a beauty.” The comment twists a knife in my stomach and nausea radiates through me. I still don’t meet their eyes. I focus on the beige carpet, trying to memorize the pattern woven into it. Anything to keep from acknowledging the two men in front of me. Fingers suddenly trace my jaw and I jump in surprise. They are gentle as they caress my jawline. I can tell it’s the stranger. These fingers aren’t filled with hatred.

“You know the deal,” The familiar voice rings out. The stranger's fingers disappear as he makes his way between us. Fighting back the tears I take a quick glance up at him. Disgust written all over my face. I wonder what it is this time that he wants. I hope that it is worth it. I hope that it is worth all the pain that he is causing me.

It’s not like he cares, though. He never did. No one ever does. I am left to take care of myself. I sniffle to quietly and force myself to stop the tears from falling. Focus on the present. I can't change the past as much as I want to. You’re not coming back. You’re not coming to save me.

Hands entangle themselves deep into my hair. Fingernails scrape my scalp as I am forced further down. The air is trapped in my lungs. Tears fall down my face, mixing with the saliva, making it hard to breathe.

You’re almost done.

You are almost done and then you can go back to burying this deep in the box that has been created for moments like these.

Just finish this appointment and then you are free.

You are almost done and then you can run.

You can go back to the false reality that you have created for yourself.

The sunlight invades my room. Buried between the sheets, I toss and turn. Refusing to open my eyes, I pull the duvet up and over my shoulder to cover my face. Wincing as my shoulder does a full rotation. For a moment, I forgot the events from last night. Flashbacks take over tiny slivers of moments as I fight the sleep from my mind. Blood. Running. Dark curls. Green eyes. Digging my face deeper into my pillow, hopeful that I can get rid of the nightmares, but fail miserably. Hands entangled deep in my hair. His taste invades my mouth. The sting of the hits echoing off my body. Groaning, I give up and throw the duvet off my me, and shiver as I place my feet on the floor. Slowly making my way out of my small room and into the hallway.

Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I blindly lead myself to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee. As the water slowly dumps into the back of the coffee pot, I close the lid and scoop up the coffee grounds, inhaling deeply and welcoming the strong aroma. Turning on my heel, I make my way down the hallway slightly bouncing on the tips of my toes. I force myself to the bathroom. I avoid looking in the mirror. I don’t want to see the black and blue marks on my body. The person I would face would be so disappointed and unfamiliar yet so deeply a part of me that I wouldn’t even know how to describe the love-hate relationship between the two.

You know how to fight, so why the hell didn’t you? He taught you everything you’d need to know…

I’m too tired to even fight my subconscious anymore. I’ve given up on him a long time ago, let alone myself. I gave up on the both of us the night that everything went up in flames. I was a child living in a daydream. I soon would have to wake up and be stuck in a nightmare. Running my fingers through my hair, tucking the loose stands behind my ear as I reach into the shower to turn on the water. I start my to-do list in my head in hopes of distracting myself enough to end the thoughts.

Shower

Eat

Call in sick to work.

Rehearse your story so it’s believable.

Stipping down to nothing, I throw the garments in the hamper before I turn and reach for a towel only to stop mid-stretch. My eyes widened. My stomach twists in knots. I see the color drain out of my face for what feels like the millionth time this weekend. My eyes move down my naked body. Black and blue bruises consume my entire back. The cut on my forearm is a fiery red. Tilting my face, I make out the large handprint that outlines my jaw. The cut on my lip is crusted with dried blood and swollen.

My heart seems to stop in my chest and my lungs burn as I stand in shock at the look of naked self. Breath, Raeelynn. My lips quiver as I scan my body, searching for anything inside me to grab onto to stop myself from crumbling eternally completely. Your list. Focus on your list. Distract yourself and in a few days the bruises will slowly fade, the swelling will go down and you will be able to continue on like this never happened. What’s next on the list?

Finish my essay.

Peer review the few essays in my email for my classmates.

My eyes rise in shock, but this time, not because of my body. Turning on my heel, I run out of the bathroom, not caring that I am completely naked. Goosebumps take my body hostage as I frantically search my apartment. Running to the bedroom, I scan the room. Clothes overflow from my hamper onto the floor. The duvet is a crumbled mess on my bed. My phone, untouched, still connected to my charger.

C’mon where is it? This can’t be happening. Turning and making my way down the hallway to the living area, my eyes tear apart the rooms. The bar stools are pushed away from under the island. Empty beer bottles thrown all over the counter top, stove, and along the floor in front of the trash bin. My purse lay half-hidden under the couch. A few tampons, my extra phone charger, and my keys are spread out on the floor. My breath hitches in my throat.

Where the fuck is it?

Flipping the couch cushions, I frantically search the crevices and around the tv stand in hopes that it just had fallen out. It isn’t here. Standing in the middle of my apartment, my hands deep into my hair as I continuously turn scanning for not only my book bag, but my journal. Well fuck.

***

Wrapping my body up in a towel, I step out of the shower. Turning the water off, I pull the shower curtain close and grab another towel to wrap my hair. The fabric of the carpet squishes between my toes as I drag myself down the hallway and to my room. Sitting down on the edge of the bed, I unplug my phone and dial the stores number.

“Good morning, thank you for calling Books’n’Realities. Where every book leads you to a new reality. This is Casey speaking. How can I help you?”

“Oh thank god. Cas, it’s you. Can you do me a huge favor?” I ask quickly, standing up clutching the towel tighter and pace the space between my bed and my closet.

“Raeelynn? Why are you calling the store?” Casey questions. I hear the mumbling of customers in the background along with the constant sound of the bell ringing from the front door opening and closing.

“Look, I need you to let Gloria know I won’t be able to make it in today.” I tell her. My lip finds its way between my teeth.

“You’re kidding right? Today is the big sale. Did you forget?’ Casey huffs out.

“Look, Cas… something came up. And I-” I pause. Tears swell up and threaten to fall. Taking a deep breath, I battle myself with coming clean. Shaking my head even though she can’t see me. I know I can’t. It will just ruin her as well. Wiping my eyes quickly with the back of my hand. I focus on what I called to do in the first place. “I’m not feeling well.” I whisper in a rush hoping that she heard me. The line stays silent for a few minutes. “Casey-”

“Okay. I’ll let Gloria know. But you owe me big time, Raee.” Her voice cuts me off. I hear her rummage through one of the drawers.

“I need one more thing, Casey. Check the back and see if I left my bag there. I’ve looked everywhere and I can’t find it,” I say as I force myself to stop pacing the floor and sit back down on the bed.

“Yeah, I’ll take a look right now. Give me a second to get to the back.” I hear her excuse herself from the register and makes her way to the back room. “How late were you here last night? This place looked incredible when Gloria and I showed up this morning,” She asks. Chuckling, I slowly take down my towel turban off the top of my head and run my fingers through the wet locks.

“I was there till about 8:30. Gloria had more displays that needed set up, and I didn’t really want to go home too early last night. I knew that trying to finish it all in the morning would have been a rush,” I lied fighting the knowing thoughts of the real reason why I didn't want to come home right away. The agreement he had set up. Shivering as the memories once again creep back into my mind.

Now, I wish I would have just come home instead of staying late. None of the last 12 or so hours would have happened if I would have just left at the normal time like always.

Fast cars. Reckless driving. Blondie. Thick accents. Green eyes.

Shaking my head, I try to get his image out of my head.

“Well, Gloria was impressed, but also slightly upset that you stayed so late. Something along the lines of she needs to have a life and not spend all her time deep in the books here.” Casey’s laugh fills my ears and a smile spreads across my face. The books are my escape. I will always spend my time that way. Just like our store motto: every book leads you to a new reality. Anything is better than my reality. Sighing, I wait patiently as Casey looks around the backroom for my bag.

“Yes, you left your bag here last night. I can bring it to you this afternoon when I get off, if you like? I’m sure you are going to need it seen as your big paper is due this Monday, right?” She asks as I take a deep breath in relief.

“Uh, yeah. It’s due Monday along with the peer reviews I need to do. Speaking of, peer reviews, I need yours. Professor Tilly is adamant on us having them with our final draft,” I say as I drop the towel from around my naked body. My breathing calms along with my heartbeat now that I know where my belongings are. “Cas, you don’t have to bring it all the way over here. I can grab it after you guys close up the shop tonight.” I urge, remembering how my skin is sporting the dark blues and blacks and my swollen lip.

“Nonsense, young lady. When have I ever skipped out on you when you were sick? We are in this together. Now, I really need to get back on the floor before Gloria loses her mind with these displays being perfect for the sale. I’ll see ya after my shift. Love ya!” She cheers before I hear the dead dial tone echoing in my ear.

How the hell am I going to hide these bruises? I think to myself as I throw my body back onto my bed, taking a deep breath and try to come up with a plan.

I’ve spent the entire day trying to come up with an explanation as to why I am not really sick, and how I got all these bruises. Casey is not an easy one to fool. Sweatpants and a baggy uni sweater will cover up most of my body. I can’t do much for my lip, but trying to cover this huge handprint on my cheek seems to be my most difficult assignment. It also doesn’t help that, as I am stressing about my physical appearance, I don't have my journal. All I need is for that to land in the wrong person's hands. God how could I have been so stupid and careless? Leaving it at work where anyone could get it. I can’t have people asking questions. I’m so close to finishing my dream, and to just have it ripped away if he finds out. If he finds out that I have been careless. Irresponsible with my part of the deal. I’ve worked too hard. I’ve been through way too much for him to just rip it away in a spilt second.

A knock at the door that startles me out of my thoughts. I freeze in place. Fuck she’s early. My breath hitches. I quickly pull my hair down from the messy bun on top of my head in hopes that it somewhat covers the bruises on my face. My hands clenched tightly welcoming the slight sting of my fingernails digging into my palm. You fell. You are clumsy. It’s believable. You fell. You fell. You fell. I chant in my head as I take small steps towards the door. Swinging the door open, Casey is standing there with a wild smirk across her face as she holds up a brown bag.

“Hey, I brought you soup-” She starts off. She moves to walk around me but stops completely. Her eyes slowly work their way down my face. The bright blue of her eyes soon fade to black as she takes me in. “What the hell happened to you, Raee?!” Her voice echoes down the hallway. I grab her arm and pull in my apartment quickly, closing the door behind her.

“It’s nothing really. I just fell-” I start. I lock the door and turn to face her but quickly regret it.

“Raeelynn, do not lie to me. Yeah. You fell, Right into someone's palm. Tell me now.” She shouts as she slams the brown bag down on my counter. Tossing my bookbag on one of the stools before storming over to me and moving my hair out of my face. I wince at the sudden contact. She gently grips my chin and moves my face back and forth, fully examining it. Tears pool in my eyes and I can’t meet her gaze.

“Cas really it’s not a big deal. Please, just drop it.” I shrug her hand off me and make my way around her, heading straight to my bookbag. Unzipping it, I rummage through the items, looking for my black notebook. I feel my body begin to tremble as the tears fall down my cheeks.

“Raee, I will not drop it. Someone hurt you and you need to tell me who. Was it Logan? I thought that was over.” She demands as I feel her eyes burn holes into my back. Ignoring her, I keep searching the bag, but come up empty handed. God where the hell is it?! My thoughts go rampant as the endless thoughts of who could have it or where it could be. I know for a fact, I put it in my bag before leaving class.

My body slides to the floor as I slowly force myself to accept what’s happening. Everything is crumbling apart. There’s no coming back from this. He’s going to find out. He’s going to find out that I’ve been keeping a secret from him. I welcome the uneasy feeling that is slowly taking over my body. I can’t stop the tears from creating waterfalls down my cheeks. I shake as my body tries to find the oxygen that is missing from my lungs. My back screams in agony as the bruise and marks are being pushed up against the island. Everything around me fades into black. I zone in on the darkness that is threatening to take over my entire being. I can’t do this anymore. I can’t fight it. I can’t hide it. I especially can’t keep living it. I soon feel gentle hands wrap around my small body and hold me tight.

“Shh, it’s okay, Raee. I’m here. You’re okay. Shh, just let it out,” Casey whispers in my ear as she holds me tight and gently rubs my arm. She doesn’t say anything else as we just sit there on my kitchen floor. Her body heat slowly invades me as she pulls me tighter against her. My tears stain her black work shirt. Our bodies gently rock back and forth. I sniffle and bury my face deeper into the side of her neck.

Casey runs her fingers up and down my head slowly, combing through my hair. She doesn’t say anything, giving me the choice of when to speak. I don’t know how long we sit there on my cold floor, but she doesn’t rush it. Soon the sunlight gets dimmer and my butt starts to get numb. My cheeks are now raw and stained with dried tears. I force myself away from the safety of my best friend. Taking a deep breath, I tuck some hair behind my ear and pull the sleeves down over my fingers. The urge in me is screaming to run and lock myself in my bedroom. To shut it all out and pretend that none of this is happening. But life isn’t that simple. It never has been. At least, not for a long time. Bringing my knees to my chest, I wrap my arms around them and tuck myself in.

“Logan isn’t real. I made him up.” I whisper as I lay my head down onto my arms and close my eyes. I hear a slight gasp before I feel her hand wrap around my shoulders. “I mean the situation is real, but the person isn’t. I um- it’s a long story and I’m not sure if I am ready to talk about it.” I state as I turn my head to look at Casey. Her eyes are scanning me. Her face is soft and welcoming. That’s what I love about her. It doesn't matter what is going on, she is never one to judge. Always just there, listening and taking care of everyone around her. Taking another deep breath, I slowly unwrap my arms and legs and stand up. Looking down at her, I reach out my hand to her. She looks at me questioningly before clasping my hand in hers and getting up off the floor. I pull her towards the bathroom.

“I can’t explain it, so the only thing I can do is show you.” I softly state

She doesn’t say anything and just nods as she stands back and watches my every move. I turn my back to her as I take one last glance at myself in the mirror. You can’t go back from this! Don't show her! My reflection screams at me, but I ignore her and slowly lift my sweater up and over my head.

What are you doing?! He can hurt her too! Raeelynn!

Dropping my shirt to the floor, I slowly wrap my arms around my torso, allowing her the chance to get a good look at my body and the discoloration. She’s silent as I see her slowly move closer to me in the mirror. Her eyes are full of tears as she gently reaches up to trace my skin. Hanging my head low, I avoid looking anymore. Ashamed of myself and the fact that I failed at the one thing I was supposed to do.

“If you tell a soul about this, Raeelynn, I swear I will take everything away from you. That precious job at that god awful bookstore. You going to uni. The apartment I let you live in. You don’t get these things in life for free. You will work for them. You will keep them if and only if you behave and do as you’re told. Do you understand me?” He seethes in my ear as he grips my arms tighter. I stay silent as he shakes my body back and forth.

“I don’t care if you are eighteen. You will do as you’re told. You are mine, and will work for me until I say so. One wrong move from you and they will be gone.” He states before he lets go of me.

It’s going to all be gone. He will find out. He always does.

“Raeelynn, how long has this been happening?” Casey finally whispers. Her fingers still gently trace my skin as she works her way at outlining every blue and purple marks.

“A while.” I murmur. My voice cracks as my hand moves up to wipe one of the tears that escaped.

“Why-” She starts off but stops herself. Silence fills the space around us once again. She stares at me through the reflection in the mirror. Silently asking me for permission. I nod my head and she leans down to pick up my shirt off the floor, handing it back to me.

“Why haven’t you said anything? We could hav-'' She pauses as she sees me wince as my arms slide back into the warmth of the sweater sleeves. “We could have helped you.” The last sentence comes out as a whisper. She clasps my hand and leads me out of the bathroom into my bedroom. Casey lets go as she moves to my bed, moving the blankets back and motions for me to lay down. She covers me up then lays beside me and pulls me into her chest.

“I can’t say anything, or he will take everything away.” I say in a hushed tone as I pull the blankets up to my chin, hiding my body from the world.

“What do you mean?” She asks as she leans her cheek against the crown of my head.

“The bookstore. Me going to uni. The fact I can live here by myself. He controls- he controls everything I do. If he finds out I told anyone-” I start off but stop as my body begins to shake as the fear of him finding out. “Casey he can’t find out. I can’t go back there again. I can’t.” I cry. The tears slid down my cheeks once again. I fall into her and she pulls me closer into her and she just holds me. She softly shushes me and rubs my back soothingly.

***

I wake up to the smell of bacon. My mind is foggy. I slowly sit up and look around my sunlit room. Rubbing my eyes, I remove the blankets from my body and follow the smell that engulfs my apartment. Casey is standing at the stove with her back to me as she softly hums an unknown tune. My eyes search the kitchen. My laptop and notes are spread out on the island. A coffee mug is placed right next to it as I see stacks of pancakes neatly placed on a plate. A candle is lit in the living room, giving off the smell of fall leaves and pumpkin spice. My purse and belongings are neatly placed on my couch as soft music plays in the background on my television.

“Cas?” I whisper, standing there in shock. She turns around. Her eyes light up and a small smile spreads across her face.

“Ah good afternoon sleeping beauty.” She sings as she bounces over to me and pulls me into a hug. Afternoon? Confused, I quickly glance at the clock above the stove. 2:36 pm. My eyes spring open. “You slept all night and the entire morning. You were so exhausted, Raee. I kinda finished your paper and the peer reviews that you needed done. I also attached my peer review to an email for you to turn in with your paper tomorrow. Oh, and I cleaned up and made breakfast! Well, lunch for you.” She smiles. A soft chuckle escapes as she looks at me and shrugs. Casey watches me as she patiently waits for me to wrap my head around everything she just said.

“Casey, you didn’t have to do that.” I softly state as I take a step around her and look down at my laptop and notes, seeing that she did in fact finish my assignments. I bite back a small smile as I flip through the notes she made on the peer reviews. She even printed them off for me.

“I know that I didn’t have to, but with everything going on, I wanted to help you. I know I can’t help with some things, but this I could.” She bounces back to the stove and flips the bacon.

“About last night- I, I’m sorry.” I whisper as I sit down on the stool and pick up one of the mugs that are filled with coffee.

“Do not apologize! You did nothing wrong. You will tell me when you are comfortable, and I want you to know that I will be here no matter what. Do you understand?” Casey reminds me as she quickly turns and stares me down sternly. Nodding softly, I tuck my hair behind my ear.

“Now I gotta go, but I called Gloria and let her know that you still weren’t feeling good. So, you would have today off. My shift starts in about half an hour, but make sure you eat something. Relax today, okay? I’ll come back after my shift and then we can binge watch that new show that just came out on Netflix, okay?” She asks as she makes her way around the island and holds me at arm's length. I quickly open my mouth to protest, but she stops me. “It’s not a question, and no, I am not doing this because I feel some type of way. I’m doing this because you are my best friend and you are all I have in this world. It’s okay to fall apart and feel the emotions you keep bottled up, but what we aren’t going to do is stay down. There is nothing wrong with you. I won’t tell anyone. I just want you safe, so yes I will be back tonight.”

Word count: 3.6k

Warnings: none

Harry’s POV

The metal of the door handle manages to slightly calm my nerves as I make my way into the study. Wincing, I taste metal as my teeth capture my lip.

“Styles do you have it?” A voice booms from the back of the room. Forcing myself further into the darkness, my fingers fumble with the tiny object in my pocket. Twisting it around and around between my fingers. I pull it out and hold it out in the palm of my hand. Glancing down at it, I try my hardest to not let the events of tonight invade my mind. The blood soaking the ground. The sound of my feet hitting the pavement chasing after her. The heavy metal imprint of the gun that was left on my hand as I pulled the trigger. The look of pure shock and fear on her face when she saw what had happened.

I shake my head, trying to clear my mind but failing miserably. She looks exactly like him. She could be his twin. All the way from the tip of her toes to the freckles on her nose. The only difference was the color of her eyes. The way they trailed down my body as she stood frozen in front of me. The way that her hands shook as I forced her into my car. The way she looked at me and saw the monster that I try to hide from him.

“Harry.” His voice booms again breaking me out of my trance. My eyes snap up and my hand clenches closed.

“Sir?”

Robin slowly stands up from behind his desk and makes his way over to me. His hand stretches out silently asking. Placing the tiny object in his hand, my lip finds its way back between my teeth.

“Get your head back in the game. This is only the beginning. We have a long way to go,” He states, clapping the top of my shoulder before turning and making his way back behind his desk. Silently nodding, my eyes drift down to the object in his hand.

“What exactly is the plan now that we have it? What am I supposed to do with her? If any of the pack find out-” I start off but Robin cuts me off.

“You will continue on with the plan just like we have discussed it. As for the girl, take her back.” Robin waves his hand in the air dismissing me. A huff of air leaves my lip.

“What do you mean take her back?! You just expect me to drop her off like nothing happened? What if she goes to the police?” I ask as I fling myself forward and force him to look at me. I shake from the rage coursing through my veins. Anger slowly working its way through my body once again. I try to hold back a wince as my fingernails dig deeper into my palms.

“You accomplished what needed to be accomplished. Our message was delivered. You know what to do. So, do it. End of discussion.” He states as he stares up at me.

I don’t know what is pissing me off more. The fact that he doesn’t see a problem with any of this or the fact that he does see it, but doesn’t give two shits about what happens to the pack. My heart beats against my rib cage so hard there is no way that he can’t hear it. Running my fingers through my hair, I lean down and place my hands on either side of his chair, trapping him in.

“If I go down because this goes to shit, you’re the first person I am coming for.” I spit. “I will not be sent back.”

“You’re forgetting who you are talking to, Styles. I am not afraid of you. Do not forget that I am the one that brought you out of that hell hole. This will only work if you trust me and trust the plan. The pack will find out when and if I decide they should. Do as you were instructed and don’t make me regret choosing you. Now, take the damn girl home and get back here. The pack has a drop they have to complete before midnight.” Robin’s demeanor doesn’t change from calm and collected this entire time. Without another glance in my direction, he turns his attention back to the tiny flash drive in his hands and rotates it between his fingers.

Taking a deep breath, I push off the arms of his chair and make my way back to the door. My feet feel heavy as I reach for the door handle. I try to control my breathing as my chest heaves up and down.

“Oh, and Styles,” Robin calls out, causing me to stop in my tracks. Looking over my shoulder, our eyes meet quickly. “Don’t threaten me again.” With that, he turns back around, ending our meeting. His phone screams with life and he quickly answers. “Robin speaking,” He says as I make my way through the door only to be stopped once again, but this time, it isn’t in the way I expected.

“Hazza, your back early,” Louis whispers, pulling me into a tight embrace. Where the hell are you, Horan?!

***

Raeelynn’s POV

“You’re a fast little fucker aren’t you,” Blondie huffs against my ear as he holds my arm tight and leads me right down the same path Harry did. Rolling my eyes, I try to jerk my arm away from his grip. Our chests heave trying to catch our breath.

“Let me go or I swear to God I will scream,” I threaten, fighting against him. My feet dig into the ground but do nothing against the concrete. His laugh fills the night air as he continues to effortlessly drag me through the white door.

“You’re funny. The fact that you think anyone will hear you clear out here, you really don’t know what you’ve gotten yourself into.”

“I’m glad that you find me hilarious, Blondie. Now seriously, let me go,” I spit sarcastically. My eyebrows furrowed together as we made our way back into the garage where we first met. Scanning the room, I realize it’s empty. “Where’s your buddy? Huh? Out there kidnapping more innocent people?” I try to wiggle free from his grip. Nothing out of the ordinary with the garage besides being almost ten times bigger than any normal one I’ve ever been in. A few black tinted cars take residence on the left side, leaving the right to be filled with cabinets that reach up clear to the ceiling. A few windows line the back wall.

“Harry doesn’t do anything to anyone who isn’t innocent. He’s fair. Always has been. That’s what makes him… Harry.” Blondie says, pulling me to a stop and opens one of the car doors, forcing me inside.

“Well, you are forgetting one important detail there, mate. I am innocent.” I say with a forced chuckle. “I didn’t do anything, yet here I am. Hanging out with you and being held against my will.” I place my arms on either side of the opening and turn around to face him. Our eyes line up perfectly. “I am not getting in another car.”

“Look. I have no idea what the bloody hell is going on, but I’m telling you right now, if you don’t get in that car and sit your pretty self on that leather seat, I will strap you down and sit on you. It won’t be the first time I’ve had to do it. I may be small, but size isn’t always important.” Blondie teases as he takes a step forward and grabs my hips, throwing me into the back of the SUV. Huffing as my back makes contact with the cold seat, I quickly spring up and try to block the door from shutting. The doors lock and I am left pulling on the handle with no result. His blue eyes meet my dark ones. He shrugs and turns his back to me before making his way to the door where I last saw Harry.

Hot tears swell my eyes. I am left with no choice but to give my legs and body a break and accept the reality right in front of me. Falling back against the seat, my feet fall to the floor. I am not getting out of this alive. I try to stop the tears from falling down my face but fail. My breath becomes uneven. My lungs feel like there is a hot flame deep inside them. This can’t be happening. How is this happening? As if my life isn’t already complete shit.

With snot running from my nose and tears crusted to my cheeks, I bring my knees to my chest and just hold myself. No one ever thinks that their life will end at just twenty-two. I haven’t done anything worth being proud of. At least, nothing that I am proud of. I won’t get to say goodbye to the ones who impacted me in a way I never knew imaginable. I won’t get to walk across the stage at graduation and accept my diploma. I won’t get to open up my own book store and start a life I’ll to be proud of. At this very moment, I remember the times I was teased with a happy ending only for it to be ripped away. Those moments alone I blame one person and one person only, and even they saw how worthless I was. Who am I to believe any differently now? I am shown time and time again I am not worth it. My life isn’t worth it. Even a complete stranger, who I witnessed murder someone, agrees that my life is worth little to nothing, seen as I am planned to die tonight.

“Where the hell is she, Horan?” A deep voice barks and I hear a door slam. Not realizing that I have fallen into a laying position on the back seat, I shoot up to see Harry storming his way across the garage floor to grab Blondie by the collar of his shirt and slam him against the car. Horan is quick to respond, smacking Harry off of him and pushing away from him.

“What were you thinking bringing her here, Harry?” Blondie yells as he keeps pushing Harry's chest. Harry doesn’t say anything as he stares down at Horan. “Don’t burst in here thinking I helped her escape, because I didn’t. If It wasn’t for you, I would have let her go. I would have let her run.” Niall snarls as he squares up and faces Harry head-on. Harry still doesn’t say anything. His nose flares open and close and his chest heaves up and down. Neither one of them backed down.

“Where is she, Niall?” Harry asks, his hand making contact with the car. The loud bang echoed through the garage.

“She looks exactly like him, H. You can’t keep hiding this. You can’t keep avoiding the fact that he will find out eventually.” Niall moves away from Harry and starts to pace. My mind is racing with a million questions. Who are they talking about? And why do they keep comparing me to this mysterious person? “You brought her here. Through thick and thin, remember? We made a bloody pact, Harry. Thick and thin!” Niall yells as he turns to face Harry once again. This time his child-like face turned red and he no longer shows the carefree demeanor he held earlier. Harry takes a deep breath and runs his fingers through his curls. His back is turned to Niall as he looks up at the car in front of him. Tiredness falls clear across his face. His eyes scream for a break in the madness, but it's only for a second, and then they return to the stone they were before. Watching as his body goes rigid he stands tall and turns to face Niall.

“I can’t talk about it here. Not now. The time isn’t right. You’re my brother, Niall. Maybe not by blood, but by choice. So, please don’t make me do something I will regret. Just tell me where she is ?” He asks again, his voice calmer than before. Niall looks in the direction of the car. Blondie doesn’t say anything as he looks at me threw the car window before looking at Harry. Taking a deep breath and almost making me think he considered keeping the fact I was well hidden in the tinted car a secret, he let down not only his shoulders in defeat but also me with the slight fact I thought maybe he had changed his mind.

“She’s bloody fucking fast, mate. And has his sass. She tried to run, but I stopped her. She climbed out the bloody bathroom window. If it wasn’t for the fact that she didn’t know the grounds she could have gotten out of the gate. Lord knows that it’s a miracle that the rest of the pack didn’t see her.” Niall says as he steps around Harry and walks towards the door separating me from them. Harry turns and his gaze follows Niall. Confusion written across his face.

Soon the door is opened and Niall steps to the side, giving Harry the view of me curled into a ball on the back seat. His eyes trace my entire body before he makes his way over to the opening. His jaw is clenched as he stretches out his hand. Leaving me confused, and slightly scared. I shake my head as I try to scoot away from him. Panic shoots across my chest once again.

“No,” I whisper and this time it is not as stern nor collected as it was the first time I told Harry Styles no.

“Oh, sweetheart. We have a lot to teach you. First things first, how to follow orders.” Harry tisks, climbing into the back seat and closing the door behind him. Our eyes lock as he sits down beside me and motions for me to copy him. He pulls his phone out and quickly dials and holds it to his ear. It’s quiet for a moment. The silence is deadly.

“It’s Styles. I’m on my way. Be ready.” And with that, he hangs the phone up and slides it deep into his pocket. God, here it comes. The moment that I have been dreading. Without looking at me he opens the door again and steps out. He adjusts his pants and shirt and straightens up. Looking over his shoulder he clears his throat. “Horan, take Ms. Scott home and then report back at 2300. We have a drop tonight.” He walks towards the door that leads him into the house without a second glance in my direction. My eyes are big and my mouth hangs open. I am just as surprised as Blondie is but he doesn’t waste a second before closing the door and climbing into the front seat. Adjusting the mirror, he looks back at me.

“Buckle up. You’re going home.” He gives me a soft smile before turning the ignition over and the car roars to life.

I am left speechless. Absolutely speechless. The car rolls through the garage and back down the blackened alleyway. As we speed down the darkened road, my mind is once again running wild with confusion. There are only three questions that run through my head. First, how do they know where I live? Secondly, why is he letting me go? Thirdly, how did he know my last name?

The car ride is silent as Blondie keeps his eyes on the road and his hands tight on the wheel. His body instantly relaxes as we make our way into city limits and he turns on the radio. It’s playing something I’ve never heard of before.

“Where are you taking me?” I ask quietly as I watch him through the rearview mirror. His eyes meet mine for a split second before they return to the road. Taking a deep breath, I refuse to believe that he is actually taking me home.

“Home.” He states as he makes a slight right turn and he drums his fingers on the steering wheel to the beat of the song playing through the speakers. My eyes dart outside, trying to see my surroundings, but I have no such luck as the car zooms faster and faster down the dark roads. My hands start to shake and fidget with the hem of my shirt.

“How do you know where I live?” I ask as my body sways slightly with the movement of the car. He ignores me as he continues to drive forward down the unknown roads.

The car makes a sharp left and stops at a red light. I glance down at the door handle. Thinking and calculating the probability of me successfully making it out of the car before he can get to me. What’s worse? Death by a complete stranger or death by jumping out of a speeding car? What is it with these guys speeding way above the speed limit being so careless? Just makes you wonder how the hell they get away with murder as they both can’t even follow driving regulations. It’s almost like they could care less if they get caught speeding, but lord forbid if they get caught sending a bullet through someone's head.

“You won’t get the door open. Not even when I am stopped at a red light. So, there is really no point in thinking about jumping. With that being said, what is with you and just jumping out of places?” Blondie asks as he looks at me through the rear view mirror and turns down the music.

“How did you kno-” I started to ask.

“You keep glancing at the door handle. It automatically locks. You have to have an access code to get them unlocked. So you can try and open the door all you want, but you won’t get out,” Niall shrugs his shoulders and moves his eyes back to the road. I say nothing as my eyes fall in defeat, glancing again at the door handle.

Of course, it would be me that I found myself not only a witness to a murder, but kidnapped, and also trapped in an automatic locked car. What has the world come to nowadays? Who invented things like that? Shaking my head and running my hands up and down my face, I exhale as I wish that this night would be over already. Granted, I don’t want to die, but I am exhausted and wish that they would just get it done and over with. Maybe this is their plan? Maybe they want me to be exhausted in all aspects, that way, when the time comes, I will least expect it and put up less of a fight. A thought comes to mind. My head snaps up and I look at Blondie once again.

“You know, it might not have been the smartest idea to put me in the backseat. I could easily reach up and distract you. Take you from behind,” I say as I inch my way up the leather seat. A laugh fills the small area as he makes another turn and keeps his eyes on the road.

“I’m not worried because you could easily do the same thing sitting up here right next to me. But I have a feeling you won’t do that,” He says as his fingers keep on drumming along the steering wheel. My eyebrows furrow.

“What makes you think I won’t?” I ask, kind of offended that he thinks I wouldn’t defend myself. He shrugs again and slowly brings the car to a stop.

“Because you are home.” He smiles as I hear a low clicking sound echo through the car. My eyes grow wide as I look up, sure enough, my apartment building is right in front of us. I slowly reach for the door handle. Fighting back the tears as my fingers wrap themselves around the cold metal. Almost testing if this is some sick, twisted joke?

“Is this a joke?” I ask as I slowly slide my arse across the leather seats and look out the window at my apartment building. Blondie gives a soft chuckle as he opens his own door and walks around the car to stand right in front of my door. He pulls it open and holds out his hand for me to grab. I can’t believe what is happening right now. Why am I fighting this so hard? It’s not like I haven’t just spent the last few hours fighting for my life trying to escape and here he is holding the door open for me offering me his hand. Get out of the damn car Raeelynn. I look at Blondie's blue eyes as I hesitantly reach for his hand.

“I told you Harry doesn’t do anything to those who are innocent,” Niall whispers as his fingers clasp my hand and help me out of the car.

“I don’t understand. If he was planning on letting me go this entire time, why even bother taking me back there?” I ask, slowly moving away from the tinted car and closer to my safety.

“Get inside.” That was all Niall said before getting in the car and driving off. I stand there stunned as I look down at my hands and up in the direction of where the car disappeared.

Sure babe! This is Dark, the Harry Fanfic. Here’s the tumblr link where you can read it free, without signing up!