Tacoma Falls: Wild Horses

Triggers

Amber

I stayed away from the cabin until nightfall. When I returned, Grayson stayed rooted in his spot. I didn't speak to him but headed upstairs. I didn't want him near me. He would only apologize before he raised his hand to me. I knew the drill. I lived it.

I paced the loft, trying to plan my escape. I heard floorboards squeak and found an area to hide. I huddled in that small space and controlled my breathing.

"Wild Filly, it's Grayson. You can stay where you are. I won't come near you."

I didn't trust Grayson's words until he stopped. I peeked to see him sitting near the steps with his back to me.

"I should have told you about making an appointment with a doctor. That was my fault. I realized my mistake."

"Yeah, you should have."

"I didn't want you to think I was pushing you to get help."

"But you did."

"I realized that now."

"You should have asked me to speak to a doctor. Not take it upon yourself to take my decision from me."

"You're right. I won't apologize. It won't mean a damn thing to you."

"You're right. It won't."

"I'll stay right here. You can do whatever you want. I won't say a word."

I sat in that cramped space for a while until I emerged from it. Grayson was still in the same spot. He never moved from it.

I padded to the foot of the bed and lowered myself down. "You didn't move."

"Nope." Grayson shook his head with his back to me. "I said I wouldn't."

"Are you planning to sit there all night?"

"If that's what you want. I can stay on the couch, too."

I sat on the bed and pondered what I wanted. I didn't know since Satan wouldn't let me decide. He took that from me.

"Look at me. I hate when people turn their backs to me," I huffed.

Grayson swiveled his body to face me and leaned against the railing. "Okay."

"I don't like people making decisions for me. It's not right."

"You're right. No one should make decisions for you."

"You need to ask or warn me before you do something."

"Agree."

"No more going behind my back."

"I won't. I'll be transparent with you."

"Fine."

"Are you hungry?"

"Why do you keep asking me that?"

"You haven't eaten all day. I can make food for you."

I stared at Grayson and blinked. "Fine."

We stood up. Grayson headed downstairs before me. I followed but kept my distance.

I slid onto a stool at the kitchen counter and watched as he flitted around the kitchen. "What are you making?"

"Beef stew."

"You're making my favorite meal?"

"Yes."

"Oh." I sat and waited.

******
Grayson

When Amber left the cabin with my phone, I knew I screwed up. I should have told her about the doctor calling. It's a mistake I won't make again.