The Phoenix

Chapter 16 - You're Mine

(Scarlett's POV)

It was finally Saturday and I, for one was glad that it was. I haven't been home in the last week and if I do go back it will probably be just to grab more clothes.

I've been at Paise's house all week after leaving Kyson's place. And I'm actually sad to admit that I've been avoiding him. I've hardly text him back and make excuses every time he wants to see me.

And it's because I feel guilty.

He opened up to me that Saturday night and I couldn't do the same.

I let him down.

That would have been the best moment to tell him about the real me.

But the real reason I felt guilty is because of what Ivan did to me. He made me feel dirty and unworthy of Kyson's company. I didn't want to taint Kyson with my problem and my filthiness.

It's been an entire week since it happened, but it continues to feel as if it happened yesterday. My nightmares have been out of control. I wake in sweat and tears and I know the only person who can comfort is the person I'm avoiding.

I miss him.

I miss his presence and how happy he makes me feel when I'm around him.

I still haven't made up my mind on whether or not I will be going to his fight tonight, but one text from him telling me he wants me there will be enough to persuade me.

"Paise, do you want to come in with me?" I asked, hopeful.

She cuts the engine without a word. "All ready ahead of you."

Paise knows, she knows everything. I had to tell her about Ivan, I couldn't keep this a secret from her.

I woke up from a nightmare on Wednesday night, screaming and crying. And she told me that she heard me say things in my sleep that were frightening.

She told me, Scar, I'm your best friend and I will never judge you.

So, I told her.

She cried with me, comforted me, and told me that everything would be okay. She took care of me just like any best friend would.

We exited the car, heading towards my house, I had my key ready to unlock the door between my shaking fingers.

Paise locked her arm with mine as she guided me to the door.

Kenn and Paise have only been in my house once in the last years that I have known them. I didn't want to expose them to the evil that lives in this house. They were more innocent than me and I wanted to keep it that way.

It was late in the afternoon, but always sunny and chilly in late September. October would be soon creeping in, causing our warm temperatures to drop.

"We just need to get a few things, right?" She asked me as we reached the door.

I nodded at her, putting my key in the hole and turning the lock.

When we walked in Ivan was lounged on the couch with his famous buddy, Dave. They looked up at us as we walked in, checking us out, but more so Paisley.