A Little Bit Stronger

Chapter Nine

On the walk home I tried to block out the thoughts of what would happen if Martin saw Parker and focus on what he was saying about soccer. He was saying something about how he was really looking forward to the season and couldn't wait for the first game. I nodded occasionally to show that I was paying attention, even though I wasn't. All I could focus on at that moment was Martin.

No boy has ever come home with me because I was terrified of what Martin would do to me, or worse, them if anyone ever did. The thoughts kept racing through my head and I almost didn't notice that the turn into my neighborhood was approaching. I looked over at Parker, he was still talking and I started to listen to what he was actually saying.

"But I think this season is gonna go really well. You should really come see some of the games," he was saying. I nodded at him and gave a small smile.

"I'll try to. I usually super busy with work but I can try. My house is up here," I turned the corner onto my street and kept walking.

"It would be pretty cool if you did. Come to the games I mean. You're pretty cool to hang out with," he told me. I smiled and looked at my feet.

"Like I said, I'll try but no promises," I looked up at the house and took a deep breath. Maybe he won't ask to come in and I don't even have to worry about Martin seeing him. He isn't even home yet so even if Parker does come in he wouldn't know. Then again, my mom is probably passed out and I don't want to have to explain that to Parker. "Thanks for walking me home," I said instead, giving him a small side hug.

"Anytime, I'll see you tomorrow," and with a small nod he was off walking down the street. I looked after him and then back to the house. I sighed, not wanting to go in but knowing I had to. I started up the driveway, unlocked the door and went in. I expected to see my mother passed out on the couch but she wasn't there. I figured she was in her room or something so I went to my bedroom to begin my homework.

After a half an hour I decided to start making dinner. I thought it was a really good night to grill some burgers so I went to the garage to get the grill. On my way outside I decided I should check on my mom. I started up the stairs to her room and knocked.

"Mom?" I asked quietly. No answer. "Mom?" A bit louder this time. Still nothing. I opened the door and saw that no one was in there. My mom never left the house during the day. Plus her phone, keys and purse were still on her dresser. I ran down the stairs and searched the whole house. Screaming for my mom hoping that she would respond.

Finally, I went outside and looked around the yard as well. I asked neighbors if they had seen her leave and they all said no. I went back in the house to call Martin and see if she was with him. He had his phone shut off. At that point I started to panic even more. When 6:00 rolled around and neither Martin or my mother was home I was getting scared. I was all alone and I didn't know where what was left of my "family" was or what had happened to them. I was afraid Martin did something to my mom. And that I would be next.