~Two Different Roads~

~Don't worry about me~

Today was the day.  Ali was going to her parents house to finally pick up her things.  She was hoping her mom found something better to do than wait for her outside.  She had contacted Aunt Caroline and told her that she was coming.  Her dad was most likely at a meeting, so she wouldn't see him. 

"I'm nervous," Ali said to Evan.
"Hey. Don't be. I'd say I would wait in the car for you, but if they saw me they might just kill me...literally!"
"You're right. They're my parents, I shouldn't be scared of them!"

        *************************

Ali was shaking.  Once her hand touched the door to knock, she suddenly felt dizzy.  She was hoping that Aunt Caroline would open the door, but she didn't.

"Ali..." Mother said  "I moved your stuff back into your room.  You are my daughter. I am in charge of you and love you.  It's my job to make sure you're safe and being taken care of and with you away I can't do that.  The boy has driven a wedge between us. I know what's it's like to feel in love. Like you said...I'm in love with money. I can't stay away from it. You make the decision whether to be with the boy or not. I know one thing, I will take better care of you and try my best not to judge anyone."

Ali just nodded.

"That's all you're going to do?" Mother asked with a pained expression.
"I'm not sure what to say.  I'm scared."
"Of what?"
"Getting hurt again by you."
"That was years ago. You were only 4 and I was 23. I was messing around with your dad and I didn't know what I was doing or how to raise you!"

Ali was born when her mother was only 19.  Ali was an accident, but father claims she was the best thing that ever happened in their lives.  Her parents weren't married yet.  When Ali was misbehaving, her parents would hit her. In other words, she was violently abused. Her parents would take her to the doctor if it was serious and tell the doctor that she fell.  They called her names and bullied her. They threatened to put her up for adoption if she told anyone. Hurting her brought them joy. They kept her alive so they could beat on her more.

When Ali began to date Evan, she told him...but he swore he wouldn't tell anyone...just protect her.

They quit abusing her at age 11.

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"I know it's crazy," Ali told Evan.
"You just bought a new house!"
"I understand that but it won't go to waste. Trust me..."
"What does that mean?!"
"I talked to your parents and I'm giving it to them for free. They're already moving the stuff...if you're wondering why they haven't been around!"
"Ali, woah. I can't do that. It mug have cost a fortune!"
"Exactly. You're the one who said you'd hate to see it go to waste! It won't if you buy it!"
"Okay. I'll take it. Thanks! Now that I've accepted the house...what if they abuse you again?"
"Don't worry about me..."
"I love you Ali!"
"Same to you Mr. Campbell!"