Shot in the Dark

Locks can't keep you safe

Mum had taken it upon herself to make it her personal mission to get my consent for their new job role, even though she had already signed the paperwork that said she was starting the placement in two weeks. Not that she told me this, I saw the forms on the side of the desk. I didn't know what was worse, the fact that she was making it seem like I had an actual input on this decision, or that knowing even if I didn't change my mind that she would still do it anyway.

 So, I caved. I gave her the approval that she so desperately pretended that she needed to 'finalise the plans' that had already been sent out earlier that week. I was more grateful to not have her on my back every two seconds trying to win me over. Alec had returned to University so there wasn't much hope of him distracting her anymore, I needed my freedom back.

Me and Tyler were closer than ever, it was nice to have the reassurance that I wasn't alone. He was always a good listener, even when we were younger. I remember when his parents were alive I would spend most of my time over his house, it always made me happier. His parents were the most supportive, genuine couple that were truly in love. Their death had a major impact on the town and obviously Tyler, but on that day I had felt like I had lost my family too. 

I can still remember that day clearly, Tyler had received the phone call whilst he was at my house when we were fourteen. His parents were returning from the family wedding they were attending when they were involved in a car crash. Two drunk drivers, who were in the year above me and Tyler decided to drive home themselves. Losing control of their car around a bend they had ended up driving straight into Tyler's parents. Due to the speed in which they were driving Tyler's parents died immediately, however the drunk driver remained in a coma for six months and the passenger with severe injuries. 

They were lucky the doctors had said, Tyler's parents weren't. It tore Tyler apart, he temporarily moved into my house unable to face sleeping in his house alone until his brother obtained custody of Tyler. Now thinking of it, only a year later he lost his best friend too. 

I had so many questions I wanted to ask Tyler, but Tyler still hadn't changed since we were young, he'd only answer your questions when he wanted to. He had always made that very clear, he will open up on his terms and not a moment sooner.

Walking up the stairs making my way towards my room to call Tyler I noticed that my door was slightly ajar. I had made a conscious habit recently to ensure that I locked my door every time I left, and most of the time even when I was home, not trusting the company in my house. My lock was hanging off the door blocking the door from completely closing, I could feel the anger rising inside. 

Swinging my door open expecting the room to be completely trashed like the last time it had remained unlocked I was taken back to notice everything still in place. Quickly checking the drawers next to my bed checking he hadn't taken any my personal items I was even more shocked to see that they hadn't be touched. As I slowly got up I noticed the small envelope on the bed with the word 'princess' on the front. After shutting my door, I sat crossed legged whilst holding the envelope. Attentively opening the envelope, I saw a note.

Dear princess,

No lock will ever stop me getting what I want. No amount of locks will keep you safe.

Sleep tight princess, but make sure to keep your eyes wide open.

Sweet Dreams.

I couldn't understand how he was able to break the lock. Half of me wanted to ask Mum to install another one, but somehow, I knew that would only get broken too. The only thing that could stop James was James himself. He doesn't seem like he'll be doing that anytime soon. Knowing that Mum and Will wouldn't be home for at least another few hours I took all my personal items, even the photo of me and Dad with a few pieces of clothing and decided to see Tyler. I couldn't risk James taking anything. 

I decided to give James my own message, taking off the necklace he gave me I placed it in the envelope. As I walked downstairs with my bag slung across my shoulder I dropped the envelope outside his room. I scrawled a note to Mum saying that I was staying at a friend's house and left slamming the door behind me. 

AUTHOR'S NOTE 

Double update today! Haven't exactly kept to the 'only posting on Monday's' so I thought I'd give you two chapter today instead of one. 

Much love

-T