Haven & Love

Ithaca Carter, supposedly the perfect golden child. Everyone loved her. She had a good heart and an intriguing soul. There was something about her that just drew people in, but before anyone could get too close she pushed them away.
Ithaca had friends, but no one knew too many personal details about her. Her past remained a mystery to everyone.
Ithaca grew up in a cold home. Her father abused her repeatedly from when she was only four years of age. It started out as just harmful comments, but when she turned fourteen she had to start hiding bruises and cuts.
Ithaca worked very diligently in school to try and get into a good college away from home. When her acceptance letter from Anchor's Haven University came in the mail, she couldn't wait to pack her bags and leave. Anchor's Haven was in Nottingham, England; half a world away from home- if you could call it that.
When she got to the school it was a bit of a shock to have a male roommate. Even more surprising was that he was caring and didn't just ignore her.

* * *

"Don't hide from me." He whispered, reaching a hand out to frame my face. I looked up to meet his stare. His eyes were begging me to tell him the truth.
"I'm not hiding." I whispered. I felt the gentle stroke of his thumb against my cheek.
"Then tell me. You can trust me. I only want to protect you. Please, don't be scared." He spoke voice soft and calming. I couldn't deny I felt nervous. Once people learned the truth they never looked at me the same or cut me out of their lives. I didn't want Luc to do the same.
As if sensing my feelings he wrapped an arm around me pulling me close. I buried my face in his chest, his warmth surrounding me like a shield. He was my protector. I knew in that moment I could tell him anything and he would still care for me.