CAPTURE>>Why don't we

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: ROUGH DAY

I toss and turn all night trying to find a position that didn't hurt but I am unsuccessful. I can't sleep. How could I? How could I sleep knowing that I'm going to have to kidnap kids soon and bring them to a place where they will be tortured for being smart?! The stress, anxiety and pain is so overwhelming that suicidal thoughts drift into my mind. I quickly push them away...I can't risk trying to do it again

BEEP BEEP!!!

My alarm rings and I'm already awake. I think I overdosed on painkillers last night...well this morning and it only gave me about an hour of sleep. I try to sit up but every part of my body aches with the most excruciating pain. I notice that the swelling hasn't gone down and the bruising somehow got worse. I honestly wish I could stay in bed the whole day but it would raise suspicion if I don't come to school today considering I was looking so much "better" yesterday. I have no choice

M: Billie, breakfast!
B: coming
I say wincing from pain

It hurts so much when I talk, especially on the side that got tasered. I manage to get dressed even though I thought it would be impossible because of the pain. I cover up the bruises with some make up but there was nothing I could do to cover up the swelling. My nose is still plumped and red but there is nothing else I can do so I struggle downstairs

B: morning
M: morning sweetie
She says facing the stove
M: how are you feelin- what happened to your face!
She says turning around and looking at me with wide eyes
B: huh? Oh nothing...it's just from blowing my nose too much
I say trying to come up with something believable
D: it doesn't look it! It looks like someone punched you or something
He says running up to me and inspecting my face
B: morning to you too dad and honestly, it's not like someone snuck into my room and punched me in the face
I say trying to be convincing
M: no sweetie this isn't normal. Come on let's get you to the doctor
B: No need mom, I'm fine

I try walking as straight as possible hiding my limo to the cabinet and I fix myself a strong cup of coffee. It is so painful moving but I try my hardest to act normal so my parents don't see me wincing in pain with every movement.

B: see, I'm fine
I say sitting down at the table and forcing a smile even though it hurt more than ever
M: if you say so...
She says looking at me worriedly
D: you can't be serious love, she's evidently lying
B: where is your evidence dad?
D: I don't know yet but I will find out
He says looking at me mysteriously
B: mom will you please
I say signaling her to talk to dad
M: I uh...I'm sorry love but I'm with your dad on this one. There's no way blowing your nose would make it so swollen and red as that!
B: look guys. I blew my nose way too many times yesterday and my allergies were acting up, I'm fine trust me
D: I still don't buy it
B: okay well I've explained all there is to explain now, can I please eat my food in peace

They kept staring at me throughout the whole of breakfast. I have to get out of there as soon as possible. I touch up the make up and take a few painkillers before leaving for school. I was about to call Zee to pick me up but Mom offers to drive me and I'm relieved. Sometimes I cycle to school but I can't even begin to think how much pain I would be in if I did that today. After an awkward car ride of me repeatedly trolling her I'm fine, we finally get there and she gives me a hug

B: ow!
I say as my body crumbles in severe pain
M: what's wrong sweetie?
B: uh...nothing, you just uh...tugged on my hair accidentally when you hugged me
I say forcing a smile
M: oh sorry love-wait...what's that by your collar bone?