Escape

Chapter 1 - The Fall

        This isn't how it was supposed to be. We were supposed to be happy. He was supposed to be the kind, charming man I met 7 years ago. We were just kids, but I knew when I met him that he would be someone important to me. Now, I wish I'd never left home. I wish I'd never met him.

        As I sit at the bus stop with my small duffel bag, I try to remember why I stayed. I try to remember the good things. However, as I shift slightly in the bench, I'm sitting on I remember why I have to go. I'm reminded of all the bruises forming and the scars already healed. I'm reminded that I was weak.

        A small noise next to me makes me jump. I've had my head on swivel since I sat down, hoping he doesn't find me before the next bus comes. As I look around, I see that the noise came from a kitten who is now weaving its way through my legs. What a fragile little thing, out here all on its own. I guess we have that in common. 

        I lean down to pet it when suddenly it runs off into the darkness. A screeching of brakes draws my head back up to the bus that is pulling up to the stop. I fish into my pocket for the little money I had to bring with me and stand up off the bench.

        The bus doors open and I'm met with my saving grace. An old man driving the public transit. I step up the stairs and he does a slight double take at my busted lip and the growing black eye I'm sporting. He doesn't say anything other than to ask for the fare. I give the money to him and make my way to the back of the bus. There are only two other people on this bus, but I don't want anyone sitting behind me. 

        The bus pulls away from the stop and I finally take a breath. This is the beginning for me. I can finally start to live. Hopefully.