A Dark Desire

•THREE

~flashback~

I ran outside, not caring that it was 2 in the morning. I couldn't even think straight because of how much my body ached, making it hard to run. I didn't even care where I was going. Everything felt like a dream. Every moment. My dad never hit me like this. He has never choked me before. Why did he do it?

The porch lights automatically turned on making my heart stop for a second. I was still shocked from all of this. He would slap me or just call me horrible names. Or he'd just glare at me. Nothing too bad.

My eyes burned, wanting to cry so badly but I stopped myself, I just needed to get away.

I finally reached a far enough distance from my house, about a block away. My lungs burned for air, but I couldn't breathe. It felt like something is stopping my lungs from breathing. I bent forward, setting my hands on my knees trying to breathe.

In and out, In and out.

Tears started to stream down my cheeks. Why did this happen? we we're so fucking happy. Mom, dad and I. Where did it all go wrong? There was no way mom could have been saved, I needed comfort and love from my father. Instead I got an alcoholic one. I brought my shirt up and wiped my tears. No more crying Athena.

I grabbed my phone and dialed Ava, hoping she could come over. All I need right now is comfort from my best friend. It rang a few times before she answered. Loud music buzzed through the other side.

"H-hi Athena! what's up?" she slurred. Of course she's out partying, what did I expect. Everything changed ever since she joined the cheer team. Everyone gave her attention, they envied her and loved her. She loved it, I mean who wouldn't? Being popular makes you feel confident, it makes you feel like your in charge and nothing or no one could ever bring you down.

"Uh, I just wanted to know what you were doing." I let out a fake laugh.

"Aw girl, I'm at the party I told you about earlier! You really should have joined us, this party is sick!" I frowned knowing it was a lie. Her friends hate me, and they hate how she's friends with me. The feeling in my throat came back, a sob wanted to leave. This just made me feel worse.

Instant regret.

"Okay well, I'll let you go. Have fun!" I heard her laugh on the other end before she hung up. I look around again, making sure my father isn't in sight, even though I'm a block away. Better safe than sorry.

I lie down on the cold road, moving my hair to cover my cheek. This can easily be covered up. I stare up at the sky, seeing all the stars. There were so many lighting the sky, some bigger than the others. A soft smile crept on my lips. I could stay here and watch this all night.

"What are you doing?" My heart froze, I quickly sat up and looked around to see Jace standing there. His hair was messy, like always. He had grey sweatpants on and...no shirt. My cheeks felt warm, oh my god.

"Hey princess, I think your drooling." he smirked.

I blink and jerk my head. "Shut up." he chuckled, walking towards me.

"I noticed you were laying on the road, is that like a thing you do?" I looked over at him, smirking.

"Were you stalking me?"

"Ha, you wish. I live across the street, I saw you and wanted to know why you were out here."

"Oh wow, is the cold hearted Jace getting a soft spot for me?" I said sarcastically.