Survivor - Jerrie Fanfiction ✅

Chapter 36 - It's a different story

Chapter 36 - It's a different story

TW - non graphic mention of physical abuse and rape, bulimia

Perrie pov

OK, Perrie, you can do it

I lift up my blue skirt, just above the knee, smooth and no frills.

It'll be fine

I slip on my white shirt, button it up leaving only the first two open. I adjust the sleeves and cuffs.

You'll make it

I slip on the jacket that matches the skirt, same blue fabric, same soft but minimal line.

You are strong

I fix my hair by straightening it with a iron and leaving it loose.

All I have is enough to make it work

I cover my dark circles and red circled eyes with a bit of concealer, put on a nude lipstick and give myself just a couple of strokes of blush.

You survived

I slip into black heels, not too high, simple.

I am not alone

I look at myself one last time and put on the earrings my mum had given me on X Factor audition day, the ring Jade had given me for our anniversary, the bracelet Jes had given me for my birthday and the necklace Leigh had given me for Christmas.

I'm ready

I walk into the courtroom, the few people there turn and stare at me with shock painted on their faces, I squeeze Jade's hand until my knuckles are white, she looks at me and gives me an encouraging smile. I stand in front of her and she arranges a lock of hair behind my ear.

"You'll make it" she whispers to me.

I want to kiss her but I know it's not appropriate. I hold myself back. I keep looking into her eyes hoping that this will be enough to stop time and allow me to not have to speak today, not have to see Alex and not have to relive everything for the umpteenth time.

"I'm scared" I whisper, trying to hold back the tears.

"I know. Remember that he can't hurt you anymore. You are stronger than you think" Jade speaks softly but with determination.

I nod. She continues to stroke my hair and I relax into her touch.

The door behind us opens and I turn around.

Lesy, my family, Zayn and Harry walk in. Cheryl and her wife are here. Jareau, Prentiss and Doctors Monroe, Montgomery and Mikaelson are also already seated.

I look at each of them and each of them gives me a warm smile.

I am not alone

"Please, everyone take your seats" someone says.

I look at Jade and see hope in her eyes, she rests her forehead on mine and whispers that she loves me. I squeeze both her hands and then walk away towards Attorney Keating, I sit down.

The judge enters and we all stand in respect, my gaze meets his, he seems to search my eyes for answers, I look for a way out.

"Please bring in the defendants" he orders.