Breaking the Chains That Bound Us

Prologue

She ran until her back hurt and her feet bleed.

She ran until her lungs burned and legs collapsed. 

She ran until the memories and the emotional hurt was overshadowed by the physical pain of her weary body.

He can't get to me anymore!

He can't hurt me anymore!

He's gone now!

It's over!

I hear the words echoing in my head, but I can't seem to get over them. I try sooo hard to move on, but short of going to some shrink, I can't figure out what to do. Many would say, "Uh, excuse me. Why not go to a doctor? Why not talk to a psychologist?" I am not ready for that yet. My logical mind tells me they are not all the same, but my irrational fears always win out. He was a psychologist... and I know how that turned out. I can't do it! Not now, maybe not ever...

_____________________________________________________________________

She woke up screaming again, but she won't tell me why. I have asked her countless times what is going on so I can help her, but just won't tell me. I've know her for 3 years, but we've only been dating for 7 months. 

When we first started dating, I was so excited. I had a crush on her ever since the first time I laid eyes on her. I remember the first day I walked into Goldman and Ross. I had heard about a new law firm opening up in this area, but I couldn't believe my eyes when I pulled into the parking lot. The partners took over the building 5 months prior and just finished the renovations. I was blown away with the architecture. How someone could so graciously mix the antiquated with the updated was beyond me, but that was just the tip of the iceberg. Once I actually stopped gaping at the building and decided to walk in, I couldn't believe my eyes. Everything about the building, inside and out, screamed elegance and security. I understood why the partners moved up in ranks so quickly. Just standing in the lobby, I felt important. I felt secure. I felt well taken-care of. From the plush black seats in the waiting area, to the magnificent art hanging around the room, some old, some newer, to the small touches placed around the room that seemed to provide a sense of home as well as decor. Whoever headed up the design process deserves a gold star. 

I was so focused on staring at the office, that I didn't notice that I was about to walk right into a fish tank.

"Excuse me sir! Excuse me!" I didn't even realize the young man was trying to get my attention.

"Me?" I said as I pointed at myself.

"Yes. Hi. My name is Shane. Welcome to Goldman and Ross. May I help you?"

A little bit flustered, I cleared my throat and subconsciously fixed my tie. "Hi, yes. Hi. My name is Marcus Thomas. I am here to interview for a Mr. Lance Goldman?"

"Ah, yes. I spoke with you on the phone yesterday to confirm your appointment. Follow me please." Shane stood up and came from behind his desk. I was surprised at his attire. He looked like he came straight out of a magazine. I know I dress well, but damn. What kind of money is he making? That's a nice suit. I have to ask where he got it from.

"How are you doing today Mr. Thomas?"

"Pretty well, thank you and you?"

"Pretty well, thank you." He replied while calling the elevator. 

"So I was wondering, where did you get your suit from? It's very nice. I've just recently moved back to the States and I need a new suit guy?" I said with a slightly, nervous chuckle.