At just 20 years old, Aria Anderson had burst onto the scene, freshly graduated with a degree in choreography that showcased her mastery of ballet, modern, and jazz techniques, along with a keen understanding of body conditioning. It was during this...
I don't remember what it's like to not feel broken.
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I didn't even sleep on the plane. I didn't even sleep when I got into my hotel room. I don't understand why I was on so close to Michael's room. But, no one else was. They were on the same floor but further down. When I asked him, he just said it worked out that way. I know I made things worse by talking to him. But, things are gonna be bad regardless. Like the fact that I'm over an hour late to rehearsals. Well, they are doing sound check. But, he's a perfectionist. So he wants to make sure we are on point.
My body ached all over. Not just from him beating me but, him taking advantage of me. No matter how many times I said no. How hard I screamed he didn't stop. This wasn't the first time he raped me. It probably won't be the last. It took me so long just to cover up the bruises and the red marks. Even though I was in sweats. Long sleeves and a hat. I still had so much make up on. I know my left eye is slightly bruised. Just like my right cheek. It was still throbbing from how hard he hit me.
When I got to the arena. I was surprised I could even get through. The stage crew looked at me. Can they tell that I'm in a lot of pain? I head where his crew was supposed to be. Will I get kicked off the tour for being late? Will Spencer beat me til I pass out again? I keep my head low as I pass by people running around trying to get everything in order for tonight. I'm not allowed to speak to anyone. I'm not even allowed to speak to Michael. My boss, the man who will be signing my pay check. I sigh heavily and see they are rehearsing Beat It. A performance I'm supposed to be apart of.
"Aria." I hear behind me and I jump.
I'm not supposed to talk to anyone. I feel someone stand next to me and I'm too terrified to look at them. I look down at my feet. What do I do? I know he will know if I respond back to him. He knew I spoke to Michael. Even though he wasn't even around.
"Your friends are worried about you." He says. "Even Mike is. He almost canceled tonight's show."
My eyes grow wide as I look at him. It was one of his bodyguards. The main one he's always with. I curse myself. I don't wanna get beat again. I don't wanna hurt again. Why did I ever think this was my fresh start. I don't think I'll ever avoid him. Is this really what is meant for me?
"Are you okay?" He asks.
I hum and look away from him. I'm not okay. But, I can't admit that. I feel him burning a hole on the side of my face. Why is he staring at me so hard? Stop it please. I start taking deep breaths trying to stop my tears from falling.
"Aria." Roxy and Rico yell at the same time.
My body jumps. I take a step back seeing the Devil not that far. Have my friends notice him yet? I look down at the ground again and take a deep breath. Here I go again. I do this crap so well. I look up at them forcing the biggest smile I could muster. Now I must lie to them. I must lie to everyone. Michael was not the far from them. He looked at me with what looked like concern. But, why? I know he doesn't care. Why even pretend?
