Alone

The Forest

I ran as far as my feet would take me. It doesn't matter where I go or what I do. All that matters is that I get away. Away from all of these monsters.

I end up at the forest that is behind my house. I can feel the large oak trees welcome me with open branches. I can see the birds circling around in their quiet flights. The leaves dance in the wind causing a sweet hum. I can hear the low splashing of the creek waters down ahead. The creek is where I love to go and unwind.

My feet eventually take me to the little river that snakes through the forest. It's not much but I call it my safe haven. There is a group of rocks that form a small, little cave at the mouth of the river. Sometimes I would spend days and nights just sitting under the rocks and looking at the crystal clear water.

I approach the rocks, crouch down, and crawl inside of my safe new home. I swear I could live in here. Inside I have a couple of blankets covering the floor, a few throw pillows for comfort, books, snacks and pictures of my faviorte bands along the chipped walls. Some nights I would fall asleep in here.

I set my bag down and lay on the layers of blankets and pillows. The rush of the water makes me think about what's been going on. Why would you leave me with them? I don't know if I should be mad at Tommy or be happy that he can get a chance to escape our life. Why won't you take me? Jessie doesn't have a dad that is a drunk or a mother that always gets high. Why take her instead of me?

Suddenly my phone beeps, pulling me out of my trance of thoughts. I take it out of my bag and see who it is. Tommy's name shows up on the homescreen.

"Cas you need to get home ASAP!!! Dad's pissed and mom passed out and she won't wake up!!! I'm scared!"

Tommy's scared? All of these years Tommy has never showed any fear towards dad. I gather my stuff and I run home scared to find what I will see when I walk into the front door.