Ending Link (Link Dane 2)

FOUR

FOUR

"Link." My own voice betrayed me. It was like nothing changed all the years that passed and whatever I had told myself constantly the past six years flew out the window.

My own promise that no one could affect me to this point anymore again came crashing down, and caused by the one person that lead to me making this promise.

For six years, I tried to erase him from my head. But as the years went on, it became harder and continuously difficult. I started to fear that Link would forever be that someone in my life I couldn't shake off.

And here he was, standing in the flesh. There were times where I allowed my mind to wonder how he was doing. What he was doing. Who he was. And none of what my mind could concur up bared resemblance to the reality.

He had grown into his body, filling out in every aspect. His hair was longer, a few strands curling around his ears. And from what I could see, he had more tattoos than I could remember.

"Orianna." It might of been actually hearing his voice - a much deeper one at that - that I unravelled. It made everything suddenly ten times more frightening than it was.

The knee-jerk reaction was amazing, if I could say so myself. One second the door was open, and the next it was slammed shut. I instantly decided that I was not going to do it. Nope. I wasn't going to do it.

I was a grown adult and all my decisions were my own. And not dealing with this particular person would be one of  it.

"Orianna." I heard his voice again, travelling through the door.

I quickly locked the door, not sure how else I could make sure that he wouldn't come in. He had a knack for coming in uninvited and I could bet my left leg he still possessed that same knack. For added measure, I leaned back against the door making sure that if he did decide to actually kick the door down, then he would have an extra few pounds to get through.

"Let me see you." I heard him say, not sure if he meant it in a sweet way or a normal let-me-see-you way. Either way, I didn't reply.

I looked towards the toilet door and could hear that Joy was still in the shower. Knowing that she was close to the door sent panic waves through me. She was too young to be exposed to this stuff. She should have her shower, her pizza and then sleep. Having to see her mum deal with this man would not be okay. I was the boss over her and I knew what was best for her.

"You already seen me." I said after a prolonged pause.

"For one second?" I heard his scoff.

"What more do you need?" I shot back. I knew how childish and immature it seemed to be semi-arguing with Link through a locked door but I didn't give a toss. There was no way in hell that I was going to open that door.

"Please."

Hearing that one word, how soft he uttered it got me good. My whole insides warmed stupidly and I let out a breath I was holding. Without giving myself another second to remind me that this was a terrible idea, I opened the door and quickly got out, making sure to close it behind me. I knew Link well enough that he wouldn't go away unless I saw him.

I turned around and literally slammed into him. I lifted my hands to steady myself, coincidently having them placed on his solid chest.