Closer - A Connections Sequel [Ongoing]

Thirty

Valerie P.O.V.

The mystery figure standing in my backyard did not look friendly. Everything about the figure screamed dangerous- the intimidating posture underneath the ragged black hoodie, utility trousers and dirty black boots. I couldn't clearly see the person's face as it was hidden, shadowed by his hood and the quickly dimming light of day.

"Stay back! What are you doing? How'd you get in here?" I raised my voice in a firm tone, taking a couple of small steps backwards to create some distance between us. I didn't want to do anything sudden because they could be armed, and I didn't know what kind of intentions this person had. I couldn't run either, as they were blocking my path, standing closest to the house door. It looked like I wouldn't be able to out-manoeuvre them.

"Don't be afraid, Valerie." The figure said, his voice low and gruff. Chills crept up my spine at the way he said my name as if he knew me.

"I'll give you money if that's what you want. Please just leave before I call the cops." I said, as clearly as I could, trying my best to keep my calm, and stop my hands from shaking.

He chuckled to himself, a sound that was so eerie I swallowed a lump in my throat. I was definitely panicking now. I could feel sweat building in my palms and my face flushing red.

He took a step forward. I began darting my eyes around the backyard frantically, looking for anything to defend myself with. There were a few pot plants, my wooden key, and a small alfresco dining set and that was about it. None of those things I could reach and pick up with ease.

"Please, what do you want from me?" My scratchy throat said desperately.

Where could I run goddammit?

He laughed lowly once again. He advanced closer, and I did my best to maintain the distance. My efforts were futile as his larger steps began closing in on me.

"Stay back!" I screamed.

"There's no need to be afraid." He said once again.

With a bolt of adrenaline, I began running for the door and he lunged for me. I didn't make it far until his unfamiliar bulky arms looped around my body in a tight hold. I gripped the edge of the house wall, clinging on for dear life before dragging my palms against the cement, scratching them up as I tried to pull myself away from him. He tugged me forcefully and I continued to struggle against him kicking and screaming as we trampled across the backyard. Tears were running down my face as I stomped and scratched wherever I could, hoping it'll release me from his hold.

This is it, I thought.

I'm being kidnapped.

I'm going to be raped.

I'm going to be murdered.

And I couldn't do a single thing about it.

I was completely weak and utterly useless.

Oh god.

It was if time slowed down all around me as I thrashed in the attacker's hold. His grip was tight, and I was completely trapped, my eyes widened in complete and utter panic.

"Shh..." he whispered down into my ear. He pressed a soft cloth against my mouth and nose. The strong chemical invaded my senses immediately.

"There's no need to be afraid."

Those words echoed faintly in my ear, chilling me to the bone as I began slipping under. I struggled a little more, every movement becoming weaker until eventually I couldn't feel my limbs, and my eyes drooped to a close.