Chapter 47

The confusion, anger, and panic whizzes through my head at a hundred miles an hour. Obviously, he sees the realization dawn on my face, and he grins in that lop-sided sneer he has. He’s the one she’s been with, who beat her to a pulp. It flashes like a spark in my head, pushing all rational and logical behavior entirely out of sight.

“You bastard!” I scream and lunge without thought, fueled by hatred. My nails and keys slice at his face as I attempt to kick at him. He’s surprised by my fierce, impulsive attack, caught off guard, and tries to shield his face as I rain my fists on his head. It’s a stupid, insane move. His rage ignites. Grabbing my wrists, he thrusts me hard against the wall, knocking my breath out. He spins me and shoves me roughly into the cold concrete wall with enough force to almost break ribs, and I gasp for air, adrenaline spiking with ferocity. Memories of his attack so many years ago flash through my mind, and I fight back with all my might, pure surviva