Run

Part One | 1

Chapter 1

"I guess it all started back in '96. When my dad got locked up, I was thrown into a life I never wanted. Looking back, it makes sense as to why I turned out this way. My dad rarely showed any, like, love for me, I guess. It's hard to remember a time where he was happy.

Damn, it took me to get here to see how stupid I was. I can see how it all spiraled out of control now. I wish I took the situation head-on and fixed it, instead of being the stupid-ass I was. My ego and my pride were far too fragile, I guess.

Now, all I can do is regret.

I have the time anyway."

...

1996

"911, what's your emergency?"

"There's a boy and his father fighting next door. It's getting nasty."

"Okay, ma'am, can you tell me where this is taking place?"

"Yes, just off of Ward Street. The farthest house in the cul-de-sac. I think their number is 825."

"Ok-"

"Oh my god! He just hit him!"

"Ma'am, please stay calm. Do you know who-"

"He's hurting him! Oh my god! Please get here fast!"

"Ma'am, I need you to tell me if you know these people."

"N-no! The boy goes to school with my son. His name is... Um, Bryson! His name is Bryson! His father, um, Leo, I think. Leo Palmer."

"Okay, ma'am, are you in a safe area far from them?"

"Yes, I'm in my house. I'm watching from my window. He won't stop hitting him! Please, come fast!"

"Police are on their way, ma'am."

The recording stopped. I calmly looked into the officer's eyes and slumped in my chair. The police officer clasped his fingers together before leaning forward, so close I could smell his breath.

"What happened?" he asked.

I shrugged as if it wasn't a big deal. I guess it wasn't. "I pissed off my dad."

"Why did you do?" he questioned.

"I smoked his last few cigarettes," I admitted, pulling at my worn-out jeans.

The officer stood up straight and tall. He let out a short breath. "Is that it?"

I also had a stash of weed in my closet that he discovered, but this cop could put me in an electric chair before I told him that.

"Yep."

"Have you ever had a dispute similar to this one with your father?"

I narrowed my eyes at him. The disgusted grimace that seemed to be permanently etched in his face began to irritate me. I scratched my left elbow lazily. "Once or twice."

The officer crossed his arms. "Does he abuse you?"

I couldn't help but smirk, a small chuckle leaving my lips. What a fuckin' waste of time this is.

"This is no laughing matter, Bryson. Your father is facing a pretty hefty sentence so you better speak up."

"No," I smiled, my voice gentle and relaxed. "He doesn't abuse me."