I was terrified all the time.

I couldn't go on like this. I was even afraid of my own shadow.

I heard a noise downstairs and I knew Allan was home. He was probably searching the cabinets for his stash of alcohol. He was more violent when he was drunk.

I heard my stomach grumbled again. I was really hungry, but I couldn't go downstairs, because he would see me and find a reason to hit me.

I really don't know why my mother had married him. What had she seen in him? I don't know why I ask that question, because I already knew the answer. He was rich and my mother needed the money.

Dad died when I was ten and we started to have money issues. My mother had to do something in order for us to get by, so a year later she married Allan. She didn't love him and I knew he didn't love her either.

Her Saving Grace

"Yes, dear?" She asked, looking around at me.


"Thanks again for letting me stay here. I really appreciate it." I said truthfully. "I promise that I would repay you when I can."


She smiled at me. "That won't be necessary dear and you are welcome to stay as long as you like." She replied. She then walked away in the direction of the kitchen. She was such a nice lady and very welcoming. I was really worried about Carson's dad reaction though. Based on what Carson told me about his father, I didn't know what to expect. Good thing I don't have to face him for a few days as I was told that he was on a business trip.


That night, I was in the guest room laying on the bed, but I couldn't sleep. I was worried about Carson. It was now a few minutes to 11:00pm and he was not here as yet. I know I didn't have any business wondering where he was, but I couldn't help it.


Chapter 37