Tomorrow's Promise

Prologue

ADALINE

My heart raced as I listened to the sound of Jackson's heavy footsteps echoing through the hallway. I knew what was coming. It always started with the slamming of the door, followed by the unmistakable clinking of his belt buckle. I had learned to recognize the signs, each one a dictator of the storm that was about to break. Tonight was no different. Jackson had come home late, reeking of alcohol, his eyes bloodshot and filled with a familiar rage. I had to keep to myself, hoping he would pass out on the couch like he sometimes did. But luck wasn't on my side tonight.

"Adaline!" Jackson's voice boomed through the house, sending shivers down my spine.

"Where are you hiding, you little-"
I didn't wait to hear the rest. I knew I had to move quickly. I darted out of the bedroom, my bare feet silent on the wooden floor. I made my way to the small closet in the hallway, my sanctuary during these violent episodes. I squeezed myself into the cramped space, pulling the door shut as quietly as I could.

My breath came in shallow gasps, my body trembling with fear. I could hear Jackson's footsteps growing louder, closer. The closet door rattled as he yanked it open, and I found myself staring into his furious eyes.

"There you are," he snarled, grabbing me by the arm and yanking me out of the closet.

"Think you can hide from me?"

The first blow landed on my cheek, the force of it sending me sprawling to the floor. Pain exploded in my head, but I didn't cry out. I learned long ago that crying only made it worse. Jackson's fists rained down on me, each strike accompanied by a torrent of hateful words. I curled into a ball, trying to protect myself as best as I could. After what felt like an eternity, Jackson finally stopped. He stood over me, panting, his chest heaving with exertion. "Useless," he spat before stumbling away, leaving me crumpled on the floor.

I lay there for a long time, my body aching, my mind numb. I couldn't keep living like this. I had to leave to escape this nightmare. But how? Jackson controlled everything-my money, my phone, even my movements. I was trapped, but I have to try. I can't let him destroy me completely. Slowly, painfully, I pushed myself up, wincing at the sharp pain in my ribs. I made my way to the bedroom, my mind racing. I had to be smart about this. I had to plan.

Over the next few days, I quietly gathered what little money I could find, hiding it in the lining of my coat. I waited for the right moment, biding my time, pretending to be the obedient wife Jackson expected. And then, one night, when Jackson was passed out drunk on the couch, I made my move. With my heart pounding in my chest, I grabbed my pre-packed suitcases and slipped out of the house. I moved quickly, afraid that Jackson would wake up and catch me. I didn't stop until I reached the bus station, my breath coming in ragged gasps.

The bus to New York City was leaving in ten minutes. I bought a ticket with trembling hands and boarded the bus, my heart racing with a mixture of fear and hope. As the bus pulled away from the station, I looked back at the town that had been my prison for so long. I was leaving it all behind- Jackson, the abuse, the fear. I was free. As the city lights of New York came into view, I felt a surge of hope.

This was my chance to start over to build a new life for myself. I don't know what the future will hold, but I'm ready to face it. I was stronger than I had ever realized, and I am determined to make the most of this second chance.