Handcuffs And Kisses (Series #1)

Chapter 13

Lilian Carson POV

"We need to talk, Lilian Carson."

His hazel eyes glistened in the light as we locked eyes, and his expression was grim.

*Flashback*

"Jax, please give it back!"

I screamed as tears formed in my eyes. I watched as they encircled me.

I could still feel the pain and betrayal from that day as I stood face-to-face with Jax years later, wondering if he remembered what he had done. But now, as he spoke those words, it was clear that we had to confront the past and have a conversation that had been long overdue. I remember how they laughed at me and made fun of me. Then pushed me into the pool, knowing that I couldn't swim. As I struggled to stay afloat, gasping for air, I felt a surge of panic and helplessness. The memory of that traumatic incident haunted me for years, leaving deep scars on my psyche.

Every lunch period, I had to eat my food at the library because of Jax and his friends. Their relentless bullying made me feel isolated and afraid, constantly on edge whenever I saw them approaching. It wasn't just the physical torment but also the emotional torment they inflicted on me, belittling my every move and mocking my insecurities. The library became my refuge, a sanctuary where I could escape their cruel taunts and find solace in the pages of books.

Nobody wanted to be my friend. I longed for genuine connections and acceptance, but the fear of becoming a target like me kept everyone at a distance. It was disheartening to witness the power Jax held over my peers, leaving me feeling even more isolated and alone.

Amy talked to me once, and the other day she was embarrassed by everyone in front of the class, and she never spoke again. Witnessing Amy's humiliation only reinforced my fear of reaching out to others. It seemed like any attempt at connection would inevitably lead to pain and rejection. I yearned for a world where kindness prevailed over cruelty, where I could truly belong and be accepted for who I was.

Jax took away all my freedom. No teacher's helped me; some showed sympathy, but that's all they could do. Why? Jax's father was on the fourth tier of the hierarchy. No one dared speak against him. The power and influence that Jax's father held in the hierarchy made it nearly impossible for anyone to challenge or confront him. This created a sense of helplessness and frustration, as even the teachers, who were supposed to protect and support students, felt powerless in the face of such authority. It became clear that in this world, fear and intimidation ruled over justice and fairness.

*End of flashback*

After so many years of hatred and fear, I am finally standing face to face with Jax, and the memories of that oppressive environment come flooding back. The fear and helplessness I once felt resurface, but this time I am determined to stand up for myself and not let his power intimidate me anymore. I look into his eyes with confidence, letting him know that I am not afraid of him anymore.

"Do I know you? I don't think so. We don't have anything to talk about," I said with a cold tone. He looks taken aback by my response, clearly not expecting such a strong reaction from me. I can see a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as he tries to regain his composure.

"Lilian I am sorry; you didn't deserve what happened to you. Please forgive me," he pleads, his voice filled with remorse. I raise an eyebrow, sceptical of his sudden change in tone. I respond with a slight nod, acknowledging his apology but maintaining my stance.

"Apologies are not enough to undo the pain you caused. It will take time for me to heal and decide if forgiveness is possible."

Did he forget everything? The pain he caused me was unbearable, and a little sorry won't fix everything. I don't even want to be near him or see his face.