Don't Give Up On Me - Unedited

Chapter 19

"And? What did it say?" I ask. The sudden anxious feeling returned with a blast.

"When it was sent to the lab for analysis, they found traces of a males sweat, skin cells, public hair, saliva and semen. There was traces of your blood also. Charley." he says cautiously. "It's obvious from the semen they found that he didn't use protection. I have to ask, are you or were you on birth control?" he asks with a hopeful expression.

"No. I wasn't then or now. The day you came to my apartment, I had just gotten back from the pharmacy. I got the morning after pill."

He throws an arm around my shoulder and place his free hand in mine. I rest my head on his shoulder and he rests his head on mine.

"Would it work though? You didn't take it the morning after."

"It doesn't necessarily mean it has to be taken the morning after. It's most effective in the first 72 hours but can be taken within 5 days from the intercourse."

He gives a sigh of relief.

"That's good."

"So what next?" I ask.

"Now they obtain a DNA profile and then they need to compare it to the suspects DNA sample. In your case, Paul's. If the bastard didn't take a run for it. From your injuries they know it was non-consensual and your injuries consist of sexual assault and indications of force. However, my lawyer is slightly skeptic."

"Why? There's so much evidence there to prove he is guilty."

"You and I both know that but it's proving it. You had no defensive injuries. Trying to convince a jury is the biggest problem. 1 in 4 women have experienced rape or attempted rape. 38% of those knew the perpetrator. Between 75 and 95% of cases aren't reported because Sexual Assault is so hard to prove. I promise you with my last breath Charley we WILL have him pay for this. He is not going scot free."

"I just froze Hunter. I couldn't believe it was happening, not at all or at least to me. You never think you will ever be in that position, always thinking you are the exception, completely oblivious to being a victim. The fear that you could possibly be killed, the helplessness and the unknown is the most terrifying. The numbness afterwards is the sole companion to your misery. Imagine yourself feeling completely bound and froze in sheer terror, how could you defend yourself? He bate me remember? Your reactions and reflexes aren't with you for you to fight back. I know they say 'flight or fight' but I could do neither. Your paralyzed in the moment. That's why there is no defense wounds." At this point I was sobbing hysterically into Hunter's chest. "The shame and guilt is the worse."

"Ssh, I know Charley, I know, I swear we will get justice. One way or another. We will get justice."

<3

Back at home, or Hunter's home rather, I went straight to the spare bedroom. Every time I try to stand strong, I break down. My emotion are all over the place. I curl up in a ball and wrap myself in the blankets thinking over our last conversation. I don't want to be weak. Hunter cancelled all his prior meetings and took us both back here after I had calmed down. The ride over was silent with both of us left to dwell in our thoughts. My phone suddenly ringing had me huffing in annoyance as I reluctantly unwrapped myself from my cocoon.

"Hello"

"Hey Charley Bear"

"Owen is that you?"

"Duh, who else did you think it was? Ever check caller I.D before you answer?"

"Nope, it didn't cross my mind."

"You sound dull and boring this very fine evening."

"Less of the sarcasm. What's up? I feel like I haven't spoke to you in forever."