Broken Promises

44 | blake

An hour later, Brooke and I are both in tears.

I've told her about what Mason did to me the night of the party, going into detail about what happened and how I feel about it all. It's hard to retell the story, to even think about it at all, and it really takes a toll on me emotionally. Sexual assault is serious; something so revolting that no one deserves to experience. It's a crime. Yet I've been trying so hard to act like I'm okay, letting Mason roam free as if he never hurt me at all. But he has. In so many ways.

I cry so hard I shake, forcing myself to finish recounting the memory. The truth only makes Brooke cry, too. When I've said all I have to say, Brooke holds me close to her while we sit in silence, shedding tears.

"I can't believe he would do that to you," Brooke murmurs, voice breaking. "How could he?"

I don't know the answer to her question. He abused the power he has over me, as Mason always knew I loved him too much for my own good. Despite everything, he will always be the first boy I loved. Yet I am now no longer clouded by those old feelings I had for him. When I think of Mason, I don't feel as obligated toward him as I used to. He is now simply a boy I once loved, who has hurt me more times than I can count.

"I know you don't want to hear this," Brooke says, her tone serious, "but you have should tell someone, Blake. Someone else. Like the police. And . . . Mama and Daddy. This isn't something you should try to handle on your own."

"I know," I croak. Deep down, I know what Mason did to me is a secret I can no longer keep to myself. I should press charges. Not necessarily because Mason hurt me, but because he is out there now with the chance to do the same he did to me to some other girl. An innocent girl who doesn't deserve to be harassed the way I was could live through the same experience, all because I didn't report Mason when I had the chance.

"You can take your time with it," Brooke suggests. "Just know that I'm here."

"I think I'm ready," I admit, my voice sounding hoarse as I force the words out. "I want to tell Mama and Daddy tonight. Then file a report. I don't want to keep this a secret anymore. I just want it to be . . . over."

Talking about it, dealing with the situation head-on . . . it's kind of like my release. I already don't feel quite as haunted anymore, as if a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I deserve this. I need to let go of Mason and all of the pain he has caused me once and for all.

"Are you sure?" Brooke asks gently.

I hesitate only a moment before saying, "I'm positive."

With that, Brooke and I make our way downstairs so that I can tell my parents the truth. About everything.

It all seems easier knowing that I'm not alone.