1
Her ears bleed at the sound of his voice2
So often has he assaulted them3
Her heart pleads for silence4
So often does he break it5
Her mind begs for liberation6
So often it has been quieted7
Her body yearns for exoneration8
So often has it been convicted9
Her soul demands to be unbound10
So often it has been held down.11
Who can save her? 12
****************************************************************************13
Her first step inside the mansion was overwhelming. There were what must have been hundreds of candles burning, giving off that mysterious, yet sexy aura to things. 14
Some lithe woman came and took her bag. This being a permanent journey she had brought very little. Angie had escaped.15
The little hand in hers was re-assuring. He looked up with eyes so big and in one sentence summed every thing up "It will be ok now mommy." he whispered. Her eyes welled with tears because she knew he had wisdom beyond his short four years.16
Her room was blue, a melancholy blue, which suited her mood perfectly. She turned on the light and put their things away. The toy chest in the corner had been furnished with old cars, chevys fords and others of eras long past.17
With that accomplished she turned off her light, only the guest rooms had them and lay on the bed. Looking up, she saw stars. They were in swirls...and shapes. 18
She had one more bag to unpack. This one she handled with care after her little one had turned in. The box she took out was battered, from years of use. Inside it was a coffin, and in the coffin was her heart.19
She left the room then, locking it behind her. The monitor was on her hip so she knew he would be safe. Walking down the hall and into the library she looked on the shelves for something to succumb to. Romance, Western, Practically Porn, Classics everything you could desire was represented. Scanning the titles her fingers lightly touching each one, she came upon a volume of "not quite love" stories.20
Thumbing through the pages she breathed deeply as the smell of something burning caught her attention. Closing her eyes she inhaled again and caught the scent of cherry-soaked tobacco. Turning she saw a man, and his pipe with a coffee cup in his hand. 21
Interesting she thought, and so quiet. Now though she couldn't remember if he had been there when she came in, or if he was a new edition.22
She was not afraid of his presence. Though maybe she should have been. Curiosity got the better of her and she walked to where he was.23
Royal? He asked.24
Yes she said and he handed her a coffee mug with a concoction in it.25
That will help you sleep. He said re-assuredly.26
Women with courage come here you know, to the dark mansion. We take all kinds, and you are our type. No one here cares what you were doing last week or even yesterday, only today matters for we are not promised tomorrow. Welcome to my abode. Treat it well, and it will return in kind.27
With that she turned to leave, book in hand. Drifting down the hall, she wondered, what had she gotten herself into?28
CHAPTER 229
30
I do not need you31
escape my pain32
I do not need you33
bend my reality34
I do not need you35
get through my day36
I do not need you37
keep me awake38
Fear39
******************************************************************************40
Angie's eyes flickered as she woke, trying to adjust to the darkness. For a few moments she didn't know where she was. The light from outside the window slithered in, allowing her to focus on her surroundings. Slowly she remembered where she was and what she had done.41
Reaching to her side she felt her son's arm, then knowing he was there heard his rhythmic breathing. Her heart was breaking for what he would go through in the next few days. Asking questions she could and would not answer. Would he ever trust her again? This she didn't know but the risk of that was better than the reality they left behind.42
Angie swung her legs over the edge of the bed and sat up. Head hanging down she took several deep breaths then stood up. Her legs still hurt from the beating. The hospital stay had been brief, this last time. He came and checked her out, convincing yet another doctor that she was just clumsy. Doctors only see what they wish. She knew, she would never have to worry about that again.43
Standing she began walking to the bathroom. Her toe caught the book she was reading earlier and she picked it up. Then the thought occurred to her, how did the light get switched off? Had she been that tired?44
The journey they took had stretched on for days. Angie only stopped to get gas, and eat. Her son had been so good. He never asked questions, just followed her orders and occasionally told her he loved her.45
She heard about this place from a friend of a friend whose sister had stayed for a while. It was by invitation only, and the invite had to come from someone who had been there. The reasons were many, and the mistakes few. You only came, when it was your last resort.46
Book in hand she shuffled down the hall, and into the library. She returned the book to its shelf then sat in the big overstuffed leather couch. She closed her eyes and listened to the stillness that surrounded her. The fireplace crackled even now in the middle of the summer. The old stone mansion was cold and damp at night. 47
The vision started as it always has, flickering like an old black and white movie in her mind. He was coming at her, pointing fingers, yelling accusations, and reaching out. She felt herself cowering away, trying to make herself small enough that he wouldn't see her. He backed her into a corner and she fell down. 48
Out of the corner of her vision, she sees him, coming in from the side with something in his hand. While her husband is bent down over her, hitting her face, ripping her clothes, he hits his father over the head. Her husband passed out. That is the last thing she remembers until a roadside café and a cup of coffee. 49
50
CHAPTER 351
In a sky that has no meaning52
she looks for answers53
on a page with no words54
she looks for clues55
in a world full of judgment56
she looks for forgiveness57
in a church with no foundation58
she looks for salvation59
in a heart with out feeling60
she looks for love61
****************************************************62
Daylight streamed through the open curtains of the bedroom. Angie awoke to the sound of her son's voice. He was singing to himself in the corner. She smiled at his freedom; she had not heard him sing in quite some time.63
When she sat up, Steven ran over to her clamoring onto the bed and smothered Angie with kisses. She held him close and kissed his forehead.64
"Mommy look" he said pointing to the cart of food in the room. Getting out of bed she walked over to the cart and uncovered the trays.65
"OH Mommy smiley cakes" The first plate had pancakes made into smiley faces. Steven started dancing around until Angie said it was time to eat. She cut up his pancakes and poured syrup as per his request. Uncovering her plate she found eggs, toast and bacon. It didn't occur to her until half way through the meal that the tray had been delivered before she was awake, and that the last time she was awake was in the library on the couch.66
She was not bothered by this revelation, but rather curious. There were many questions she needed answers to, but for now she chose to enjoy the silence there67
Later that day Angie decided to take Steven outside. The day was beautiful, a gentle breeze blew, and the sun was shining. She had found sun block and clothes in the drawers in their room. Getting out of the clothes they had been wearing for several days was nice.68
The warmth of the sun penetrated her face as Steven took off running. He disappeared around a corner and Angie quickened her pace. She knew there was no way her husband had found her already, but after years of conditioning her instincts took over.69
When she turned the corner, Angie saw a playground with several children having a blast. The mothers were all watching attentively, huddled together. She could tell they were like her, escaping situations no woman should ever experience. Some had injuries in various stages of healing. Others had no noticeable marks, but their demeanor showed the hurts they had endured.70
Angie approached cautiously not sure of the rules of engagement. She stood nearby until one woman approached her.71
"Hi my name is Susie, welcome, please come and join us" She took Angie by the hand leaving her little choice. Susie introduced the other women in the group, then they went on with their discussion. Angie listened, gleaning information as they spoke. Her attention started to wane, and she drifted back again. The roaring started in her ears, his voice booming in her mind. Telling her how worthless, lazy, undesirable she was. That is how it always started, then that night something different happened.72
Sex had always been his makeup thing; his way to coax her into believing the abuse wouldn't happen again, no more choking, no more intimidation. Sex meant love and to Angie, his sex meant that he really did love her. That night he had come to bed and roused her. Though she had felt that familiar tension in the air for days, she was starved for touch, and to that she responded. 73
It started off gentle enough, kissing, touching, passion. She had given him what he wanted; her head in his lap then begged him inside of her. He had asked her to turn over, which wasn't unusual; he had stated he didn't like seeing her face. She did as he asked, lest he get angry and stop. When he pulled out, and put himself to her anus she collapsed, begging him no, not this time. He said ok, and resumed normal activity for a couple of minutes. Again he tried and again she said no. Cold chills ran up her spine as she remembers the change in the room, going from hot passion, to the cold detachment she felt when violence was eminent. 74
He grabbed the back of her neck, forcing her face into the pillow. Then forcing himself inside of her, he ripped her until she bled. 75
"You have no right to say no to me, I am your husband. You belong to me." he seethed his voice low and full of rage. She lay there in shock, bleeding, not believing what was happening and blanked out.76
Angie felt herself falling but couldn't stop. The other women rushed to her side and she could hear Susie saying go get Jack. The ceiling was stark white as Angie looked up. Her fear was that she was waking in yet another hospital after yet another "accident". She lay there for a moment listening for the familiar sounds of the ER or ICU. To her surprise she heard only silence.77
Her mouth was dry and it took a moment for her to get her voice working. She called for Steven, and soon heard a response.78
"Steven is fine, don't worry, Susie is watching him outside." 79
Angie looked for the source of the voice, turning her head first to the left then right. Her eyes began to focus and saw the gentleman from the previous night.80
"Who" she started before Jack interrupted.81
"My name is Jack, we met briefly last night, I am the owner of the Dark Mansion, and your host. Right now you are in our clinic, being treated for a rather nasty bump you gave yourself when you passed out. Steven is fine as I explained earlier, and he will come later to see you, right now you need your rest. You have been through a lot in the last few days, your body is reeling. "82
Angie closed her eyes and shook her head in agreement. His voice was so soothing, his demeanor so comforting, she felt safe. Drifting back into a sleep, Angie was able to rest. 83
84
CHAPTER 485
Hope springs eternal86
from the heart of her87
Refusing to listen88
to what brays from 89
From the mouth of another90
*******************************************************91
Weeks had passed since her fainting incident. A routine had been established and things were moving along. Steven was adjusting nicely. The other children had accepted him into their group with no problems. Before he left them every day he gave each and everyone of them a hug. His light would brighten a city, and in a city such as this it was sorely needed.92
The first couple of weeks Angie resisted the idea of group therapy. She felt that her problems didn't begin to add up to what some of the other women had been through. Sharing was a chore, and so exhausting. She sat there, detached, her mouth moving but not hearing what she said. Then she realized, they may not be as bad as someone else's but they were real, the damage done is real and she is justified in how she feels.93
If she had ever had an epiphany this was it. Suddenly everything looked different. The smile on her face gradually became genuine. Fifty days had passed since she had left. Fifty days of not returning. Angie realized how big of a deal this was.94
Everyone in the mansion at some point was given something to do. Angie was assigned to the library. She was to keep the books in their correct places. This was no small feat since Jack had designed the filing system himself. Mostly by subject, sometimes by author and always by importance. Angie caught on quickly, which worried her, was she twisted. Her mouth curled when she though of it, maybe, just a little.95
She busied most of her days while Steven was in the school with dusting the books here. Some had obviously not been touched in years. The most leafed through was the self-help types. Some needed replacing and she brought this to Jacks attention. She was curious when he said no as to why. He gently opened to a page, and pointed out the underlines, highlights, marginal notes. 96
"There is much more to be learned by what is in the margin, than the words actually in the book," he said gently. Angie nodded in agreement. She soon started noticing the marginal notes and underscores more than the words on the page. The things she learned there was worth far more than what the author had to say. She was not alone.97
One morning Angie woke up to a knock on her door. Steven ran over and opened it, and there was a package. She walked over slowly, picking it up and taking it to the table. There was no return address; the postmark was a local one. She opened it with caution. There was a box, wrapped in very pretty paper, and a card on top. Angie asked Steven to sit on the bed.98
The outside of the card said "Thinking Of You", turning to the inside her hands started shaking. "I know where you are, and I'm coming for you" was written. She was afraid to open the package and started calling for Jack and Beth. They hurried to her room. Angie was not one to complain and they knew it must be serious.99
Beth took Angie to the bed, while Jack read the card. His face usually white turned a deep shade of red. He turned slowly, gathering his thoughts then reassured Angie.100
"I will find out how this happened, and it will not happen again, you have been and are safe here." He told Beth to take care of her, and get Steven to school.101
Jack took the package to his office and asked his secretary to call the police. He despised the police; there was little they would do, when much was needed. His call was more of precaution than necessity. Should the time come, he would need to take action, and he wanted this recorded.102
They arrived a while later, and were present when Jack opened the package. Inside there was what looked to be a stuffed animal, covered in blood? Jack picked it up, it was a cat. On the collar was a note. 103
"You're next" 104
105
CHAPTER 5106
Hearts afire107
Hearts ablaze108
Hidden109
In a perfect maze110
Laid to rest in a special place111
Laid to rest at her own pace112
Hearts adrift in a box113
He is crazy like a fox114
*******************************************************************************115
Jack sat in his office and cussed after the police left. There was nothing that he could do at the moment except tighten security. This had only happened once before, and he had put a stop to it. One of his women had called her mother from a payphone on the grounds. The next day he took all payphones out. Calls were limited, and supervised.116
The measures seemed extreme, but these were women in crisis. Women in crisis do funny things. The woman only wanted her mother to know she was alive and well, unfortunately the mother told the husband and the husband shot his wife dead just outside the premises.117
Jack had vowed to never loose another.118
His office was grand in size but sparse in furniture. There were two wingback chairs, and his desk. Books surrounded him, his love for the written word acute. Jack was in his late 50's salt and pepper hair and his wire-rimmed glasses made him look studious. Behind the glasses were the deepest blue eyes, almost electric. They tended to pierce the armor the women put up, and allowed them to confide, open up and feel safe. He was a gentle man, bound by a code of honor long forgotten by most. He cherished each of the women who came through his door, allowing them to stay as long as necessary. Some, like Beth, never left, having found her calling in helping other women move on with their lives. 119
Beth came to him mentally exhausted, spiritually defeated, and emotionally drained. Jack knew there had been some physical violence, but sensed the emotional violence was much more harmful. Her journey had been a long one. The refusal for her to acknowledge her feelings held her back for a long time. She didn't feel she had the right to be sad, angry, and just plain fucked up about her marriage. 120
The therapy sessions had been intense. The "circle" as it was called was very deep. Women, sitting sharing at random memories they had. The stories were all so intense, so heart wrenching. Kleenex was a staple here. No one was allowed to judge, to ask why you didn't leave sooner, and to say what else would he have had to do. The number one rule was, unless it was you, you have no right. The number two rule was: if it was you, the important thing is you left, for good.121
That was the one thing they all had in common. To be here, you couldn't go back, ever. Secrecy was key, and if you were found to violate that, you were turned out, no questions asked, no assistance given. Jack did not stand for one person to put everyone in jeopardy.122
That is why this current situation bothered him so. He was sure Angie had not violated any of the rules. She was vigilant about making sure she did the right things. She hadn't been given access to the "outside" yet, that wouldn't come until day 100. What was it that brought the package here?123
Jack handed it over to a friend of his in forensics. In his game it is important to have the right connections. Men of his same mindset were few and far between and he searched them out like a vein of gold in a mountain. He had people everywhere, in every state, and kept in close contact. The women mostly served as informers, letting other women know there was an option. Then, deciding if those women were worthy of his care, of his, attention. They had to be special, someone with potential for the future, someone not going back. He took them in, taught them to be whole, and then trained them to help. 124
Women leaving his care had careers waiting for them; their children would have their college paid. What they gave up to come here was enormous; the reward for staying the course was the same.125
Jack was playing this over and over in his mind. He didn't understand how someone would know, how Angie's husband would know where she was. He knew for a fact that her husband was unconscious when she left. He had checked the police report filed against her for assault, and knew that her husband had been in the hospital for days. There was no way she was followed here.126
Jack decided he had no choice but to go through her things, looking for a cell phone, a credit card, something they had missed. His heart would break if he found Angie had violated any of his rules. Leaving your old world behind was hard, but so necessary.127
He went to Angie in the library and closed the doors. He got two glasses, put a shot of bourbon in each one and asked her to have a seat.128
"Angie, are you happy here, is there anything bothering you, troubles, questions?"129
"No, Jack, well, maybe one. What is going on, what was in the package, I don't understand why I haven't been told yet."130
"Angie, there was something very disturbing in the package, and I haven't told you because we have been speaking with the police on the matter. I have some hard questions for you and I need to you answer honestly. You know the rules here that you are to have no outside contact whatsoever. Have you violated this in any way, email, phone call, letter?"131
Tears welled up in Angie's eyes as she started to speak. 132
"No, Jack I promise none of that, I haven't made a phone call at all, I don't use the internet except under your name and to order new books, and I haven't written any letters. How did he find me, I thought I was safe here, here of all places I thought I was safe. " Tears now rolled down Angie's face, her nose turning red. 133
"Angie, do I have permission to search your things, to see if we missed something somehow?"134
"Yes, of course you do, please whatever you need to do, I just want to get on with my life, to be safe again, to live."135
With that Jack downed the rest of his bourbon and watched Angie do the same. He told her to take the afternoon off and do something entertaining on the grounds. Get Steven out of school if necessary and watch a movie or something.136
Angie left, her head down and eyes full of worry. Steven knew this look all to well and immediately asked her what was wrong. She tried to assure him that nothing was wrong and distracted him with the promise of popcorn at the movie. He shuffled along beside of her, his hand clinching hers, wondering what was happening.137
Jack opened the door to Angie's room and called in the team of crime scene analysts. The started at the door and went around the room. Dusting for fingerprints, looking for clues. To Jack this was a crime scene, something had transpired here to allow this breech of security.138
Finally they brought in the electronic devices, spectrum analysis, bug detectors, listening devices. The spectrum analysis didn't show anything special, however when the bug detector was turned on, it went haywire.139
Jack cringed, somewhere in Angie's things was a device emitting electronic signals. Signals that lead her abuser here. Going around the room, starting at the walls and working their way inward, they were lead to her dresser. At her dresser the signal was strongest by her top drawer.140
Jack walked over and opened it, full of her underclothes he took each pair of panties and each bra out searching them for something, anything that might have been missed. Most of her things had been bought after she arrived, but he was taking no chances. After the drawer was emptied, he reached to the back, then upwards. He felt a little box. Untaping it from the top of the drawer he pulled it out. 141
A little box shaped like a coffin. He opened it and found a silver heart inside. It was a locket, there was a picture, but Jack didn't recognize who it was. The detector was going bonkers, yet Jack didn't see anything. Taking his pocketknife out he pried off the back of the locket. There hidden inside was a microchip the size of a crumb. Jack was suddenly beside himself.142
All the times Angie had gotten away, all the times he found her, this was how. He reached for a bowl, took some paper off the shelf, pulled out his lighter and set the whole mess on fire.143
CHAPTER 6144
A cold wind blows145
across the land146
the heart stands still147
waiting148
the sands of time149
abrade the surface150
of the heart151
that has ceased beating152
Bending over to pick it up153
trying to save what is left154
the heart crumbles in her hand155
sifting through her fingers156
a tear is shed wetting the ground157
blood runs red158
flowing away from the broken ruins159
of the heart of that is hers. 160
*******************************************************161
She didn’t so much walk, as twitch across the street. Her fuck me heels clicking all the way. Her hips not quite swaying more shaking to her movement. She went to her corner and waited. 162
He pulled up in his truck, king cab and blue. He had come a long way and needed some action. It wouldn’t be the first time he sought a professional’s touch. Head was quick and satisfying. Got him through until he could find some.163
Angie had brought him half way across country. He had hidden that little device in the locket he gave her years ago. Until now it had always lead him to where she was. Yesterday it had stopped working. It was too late.164
That house, had been easy to find. Secluded though it was it had mail delivered. He had put a lot of thought into that package, and would’ve loved to have seen Angie’s face when she opened it. The thought of it made him chuckle. Even the thought of his boy being there didn’t bother him. He would learn how women were to be treated.165
He motioned to the whore and she came over. Transactions discussed she climbed into the cab. She had no idea what she was in for. He pulled her close and put his arm around her. 166
"Honey, get ready for the best time of your life." he said.167
It made her feel uneasy, but she figured a fuck is a fuck. He took her back to his room at the motel. He told her to strip and she did, he told her to lay down and she did. He got out his handcuffs and she protested. He hit her for the first time. 168
"No two bit whore is gonna tell me no." She went to open her mouth again and he stuffed it with his fist. 169
After that she didn’t remember much until waking up in the hospital. The nurses were whispering about the condition of her face, her body ached all over. She had no clue what he had done to her, but she knew it was bad. In truth, she would never be the same.170
He had checked out of that room, when the police came looking for him. Nothing there but the blood soaked sheets and his own emissions. He got off on it, they realized. Based on the hookers description they put out an A.P.B. She was that messed up, not your usual whore beating. This man was an animal.171
*******************************************************172
Angie sat quietly as Jack explained things to her. About the bug, and how it had been there all along. Slowly she began to realize what he was telling her. Her husband had followed her all those times, to where she was hiding, to where she thought she was safe.173
That is how he knew.174
The possibilities made her ill. What had she done. This place, this refuge was so wonderful. It was a place of healing a place of solace. She could feel she was making real strides in her recovery. She no longer jumped at the sound of a slammed door. She often caught herself humming or laughing for no apparent reason. Steven was excelling in school, the afternoon tutoring sessions catching him up. Life was beginning to be good.175
What had taken so long she wondered. She had been here for several months, longer than any of the others. She had even began to breathe free. Now this.176
"Jack, I don’t want to put anyone in danger. If he wants me, he can have me. Just keep Steven safe, please."177
He looked at her, thinking this was a bit over the top, that such a suggestion this quickly in the game was unwarranted. He waited before he said anything, the tension in the room building.178
"Angie, who’s picture was in that locket?"179
Angie looked away and down at the floor. Jack could see the memory was painful. The little girls picture had been bothering him. She looked at him, eyes welling with tears.180
"My daughter, Anne. She was about three in that picture. I had her before my husband and I got together. She had an accident one day while I was at work. He was bathing her. He went to get a towel. Anne drowned. When he got back she was dead. The police ruled it an accident. Happens more than you think they said. He gave me the locket after her funeral, with her picture in it. He said we needed to try for a child of our own to help me forget. Steven was born the next year."181
Jack didn’t know what to say. There had been no accident of that he was sure. For now he kept that to himself, he was sure Angie knew, though might not admit it to herself. This husband of hers was one twisted fuck. Jack knew he couldn’t turn her out. She needed his help. His help she would receive.182
CHAPTER 7183
A steely coldness 184
Gripped her heart185
As the fog from her mind186
Lifted187
Anger gripped her soul188
Tears rolled down her face189
Reality checks in with 190
A punch to her gut191
Fact seeps in 192
Tear gas to her logic193
A woman on a mission194
She has just become.195
196
*******************************************************197
Angie felt the need to get away from everything and everyone when she left jacks office those several hours later. Steven she knew would be cared for. She went to her room and suited up for running. Running was something she picked up while she was here, the physical exhaustion it offered her served her well. She started off on the north path her feet hitting the ground at a steady pace. The tears started welling up in her eyes. She could hold them back no longer. The harder she cried the faster she ran, trying to escape the formation of thoughts in her mind.198
Jack hadn’t said it, but she read it in his eyes, in his demeanor. She has wanted to slap him for thinking it, for not saying it, for, not making her hear the truth. The dark cloud that had been haunting her mind for all these years had finally burst, and the storm that raged within her would not be stopped. Mitch had to pay for what he did to her daughter. 199
Angie ran until her legs were weak, and she sat by a log at a stream. Sick from running she vomited. Her insides reflecting the maelstrom of emotions she felt in her mind. Walking over to the water she bent down to take a drink. The reflection on the surface startled her. There were few mirrors at the mansion. And except to fix her hair, Angie had not actually looked at herself for quite some time. 200
She was different now, slimmer, more toned. She had a definite jaw line, and her neck was long again. Her eyes stared back at her, red and puffed from her tears. She saw the steel cold in them, and reveled in that repose.201
Getting up she followed the stream for a bit, and came to a clearing. There the stream turned into a little pond and Angie slipped off her shoes. Wading in she felt the cold water rush in around her. She floated there, the sun upon her face, and let her mind wander away. 202
The picture she saw in her mind was so vivid she wasn’t first aware it was dream. She and Steven were standing on a beach, hand in hand. A ring was in her hand. She gave it to him. Steven threw it into the depths of the sea. They watched as it disappeared. Then turned around to leave. 203
Angie roused to the sound of footsteps. She backed into a group of rocks and waited silently for whatever it was to appear. Jack made the clearing and was calling for her. She called back and soon was out of the water, facing him on the opposite bank.204
"We have been looking for you, you have been gone for hours. Under the current circumstances I’m sure you realize why we were concerned", Jack said gravely205
"I’m sorry I had no idea it had been that long I just ran and ran until my legs wouldn’t move, then ended up here. Looked like a nice place to cool down. Where is this anyway.?"206
"This is almost back at the grounds A few hundred yards that way will take you right to the south lawn. You know we need to talk don’t you?"207
"Yes, yes we do, I know what has to be done, and I will need your help. This won’t end unless I end it."208
Jack looked at her curiously, not at all sure of what she meant. He saw her demeanor had changed, shoulders straightened, and her eyes were not afraid to meet his anymore. Somehow she had found confidence. He would not wait long to find out what she wanted. Angie started telling him on the way back to the mansion.209
"Jack, I need your help, I mean, more than what some of the women get. I need to know how to defend myself. Obviously just disappearing into the woodwork isn’t going to work for me. I need to know things, and I need you or someone you know to teach me. I don’t want to have to look over my shoulder the rest of my life. And I don’t want to have to worry about Steven the rest of his, not for this.210
What do you have in mind Angie.?211
Well. Lets start with target practice and we will work from there.212
The next day Angie sprang out of bed. A new purpose filled her blood and she was resolved to her quest.213
The cold steel of the Smith and Wesson 357 felt weighted in her hand. Its little two-inch barrel was not all that intimidating, but it felt right to her. The first shots were way off, her hand jerking terribly with each firing. Then squaring her shoulders, bracing her elbows and preparing herself, she began to zero in on her target. Rounds and rounds of ammunition went off before she finally laid down the gun. The barrel was hot to the touch, and she was pleased with her first lesson.214
She had a plan forming in her mind, but she would be patient, until either she was forced to take action, or until she was ready, either way she knew it would end. 215
CHAPTER 8216
Looking into the eye of your enemy217
Facing your fear218
None of us know what we will do219
Until the time is near220
Planning and waiting221
Wondering and preparation222
Cannot prime us223
For the unknown224
Deep inside we examine225
What we most despise226
Looking into the mirror227
We see our own guise.228
Soon we will find 229
The greatest enemy230
Resides with in us231
Our own trepidation232
What we cannot control233
*******************************************************234
Mitch had been wandering around the parameter of the grounds for days. Watching his quarry like a bird dog. No longer was Angie his only target, he wanted that man who always seemed to be around her.235
Watching her swim in the pond had been unbearable. She was there and so exposed, so easily taken. Then he showed up. Mitch could see Jack had some kind of control over Angie, and that only served to piss him off further. He wished he could hear what they were saying, but he was too far away and the fence was in the way of any advance. 236
He sat there brooding in his hotel room, sharpening his knife. He glanced down at the shining blade and smiled. It would cut through her like butter. Mitch was sure he would enjoy doing away with her. Angie had crossed him one to many times.237
******************************************************238
Angie’s arms were sore from target practice. She hadn’t really wanted to use a gun but figured knowing a bit about them would help to calm her fear. Realizing that she was a pretty good shot naturally bolstered her esteem a bit. 239
She stretched in bed as Steven turned over still asleep. Looking down at his little face she knew what must be done to ensure his safety. She would not allow that monster to raise him. 240
Monster, yes that is what Mitch was. It is one thing to hit a woman, to beat her, wear her down mentally and emotionally. It is another thing entirely to kill her offspring. The knowledge of what he had done to Anne had hit her like a ton of bricks, and lit a fire she didn’t know existed. She didn’t waste her anger on herself, there would be time for that later, and she focused instead on how to solve the problem. The problem was Mitch. It was time she stopped being the hunted, and became the hunter.241
After breakfast Angie took Steven to the school they had there. He was learning quickly, and advancing well. He looked at her and told her he loved her then ran off to be with the other children.242
She looked at him and sighed, smiling at the confidence he had acquired. Turning she started off to her class. 243
Michael waited patiently for her, doing some Tai Chi exercises to warm up. He had written a book used by the Los Angeles police department on rape and how to avoid it. This book had been handed out in women shelters and hospitals all over the nation. 244
When Jack called and requested his assistance Michael had accepted before he heard the situation. Jack had not called on him before, though Michael had offered numerous times to help with Jack’s women before they return to the "real world".245
Jack explained this was a special case, Angie needed to learn quickly and fiercely. While basic self-defense was usually enough for the others, Angie was up against big odds. He didn’t know what she had planned but sensed that it would be final.246
Michael caught the next plane out and joined Jack the next day. He watched Angie from afar, and got to know some of her natural movements, this was important for her training. He made a plan and worked out her lesson. She would have eight hours to grasp all he had to offer.247
Angie walked into the gym and looked around. There were knives, guns, and other weapons. Her heart started to race, wondering if she was up to the challenge. Her mind flashed back to Anne and she steeled herself for what was to come.248
Michael walked over to her, and introduced himself. Then asked her to join him center mat.249
"You I understand have assigned yourself quite a task, while I don’t know what it involved and I do not care to, I am here to help you. I have not done this before, but Jack told me it was important you know the best most effective things I have to offer. Once we start we will not stop. I have to know now that you are 100% committed, and will listen to everything I have to say. If not, leave now and we can both return to our lives." Michael said sternly.250
"You don’t understand, unless I do this, I can not return to my life. I am tired of running, of looking over my shoulder. I am ready to learn what you have to offer." Angie said looking Michael straight in the eyes.251
With that Michael began his teaching.252
Usually martial arts training is filled with self-defense forms, katas and philosophy. What Angie would get was a crash course in survival. Grappling was the first lesson. 253
Michael threw Angie to the floor with no warning. She lay there stunned, then he was on top of her. She kicked and thrashed until she was worn out. Then lay there limp.254
"Lesson one, use your attacker against themselves, save your energy, you prevail. Let me show you how."255
Angie followed his lead as he showed and explained to her how to fall, then throw an attacker. The practiced the turret, and several different joint locks. Soon she was able to hold Michael off for several seconds before he was on top of her. The turret made Angie glad she had started running. The throw was easy enough, and using the attackers energy left her so many options.256
Michael explained, "Not all attacks will be from the front, over 90% are from behind. How will you protect yourself if you are falling forwards? What will you do to protect your head after you are down, and how will you get your attacker off of you?"257
Angie thought for several moments, working through the scenario. She offered Michael an answer.258
"I will want to protect my head, put my arms underneath if possible."259
Michael smiled then showed her the techniques for this situation. He was impressed with her progress and retention. As they practiced the techniques over and over again.260
Soon they moved onto weapons. Beginning with knives, Michael showed her how to defend against them and disarm the attacker. 261
The hardest part was watching the knife. There were so many different ways for it to go depending upon how it was being held. After a couple of hours Angie was correctly defending against an attack most of the time. 262
Michael made the attacks seem real even though they practiced with a toy knife. His eyes boring into her before every attack, trying to break her concentration. Angie had some determination about her. 263
He had given black belt tests that weren’t this hard, or this long and had seen people fall by the wayside. But this wasn’t a test to Angie, this was her life.264
Finally at the end of the day , when Angie could hardly move anymore, he brought out a gun. 265
Angie laughed, "How do you defend against that?"266
Michael answered, "How many directions can a bullet travel in?"267
"One?"268
"Was that a question or a statement?"269
"One, only one."270
"Correct, so if you can control where the bullet goes, you can defend against the gun."271
This concept was tripping Angie out, though she seemed to know it was true. The things she had learned today were immense and she took this in stride with all the others.272
Ten hours into the training Angie stopped for another water break. Weary to her bones, she wondered how much longer she could go on. Then the lights went out. Though the back up lights remained on, it was quite dark.273
"Michael?" she heard no response, walking away from the fountain, she heard footsteps coming up behind her. Turning quickly she was soon on her back. Disoriented and in pain, she started kicking with everything she had left. Soon he was on top of her, trying to pin her down, his full strength and fury upon her. Calming herself she waited for the right moment then did what she had been taught. Getting up and running away Michael caught up to her again. The blade of the knife caught some light and gleamed. This wasn’t play any longer. He came at her full on, and nicked her arm. Her focus tightened and she was able to knock the knife from his grip.274
Breathing heavily she thought the exercise was over, as she heard a gunshot in the air. She stopped dead stride and turned, knowing that defending against a gun was better done face to face. He backed her to a wall, she had taken more than three steps backwards and cussed herself under her breath. He held the gun to her head and said, "Now what?"275
They hadn’t practiced this, Angie was wild with adrenaline. Her senses on overload she did what she instinctively felt from her training. Turning quickly she got out of the way of the barrel and disarmed him.276
The lights turning back on blinded them both temporarily. Michael looked at her and said "We are through, you have inside of you what you need." then turned and walked away.277
Angie wanted to call after him, tell him she wasn’t ready, but her voice wouldn’t let her. She stood there for several moments, letting it all sink in, then headed back to her room to get showered, read a book to Steven and go to sleep.278
Michael met up with Jack and told him there was nothing else he could show her that would help her anymore than what she had learned today.279
"Will she be ok?" Jack asked.280
"I truly can’t answer that question, none of us know until we face our fear what we will do. What I can tell you is that woman has a strong will to survive, and that will be her greatest weapon." Michael replied. 281
282
CHAPTER 9283
this rage that’s with in her284
calls her by name285
it cheers at her 286
jeers at her287
and laughs all the same288
it challenges her strength289
and battles her resolve290
it kills her feelings291
and tromps her heart292
she battled it for years293
and she has lost the war294
so tell her295
what does she keep fighting for 296
**********************************************************************297
Weeks had passed since Michael was here, Jack continued to help her with drills until she became sharp, and did not hesitate.298
She felt something growing within in her. A confidence she never knew existed. Not a cocky self-assurance, but an ethereal knowledge of what must be done. She had told Jack she was ready , after practice that day. He looked and asked if she was sure.299
"No, no I’m not sure, but if I don’t do this now, I never will. I could stay and practice for years and not be any more ready. I just want to spend the weekend with Steven, incase....incase I don’t make it back. I want him to know how much I love him. I have some things for him, my diary, my poetry, will you give them to him if something happens?"300
"Of course." Jack replied.301
With that Angie walked away.302
Saying good-bye to Steven would be the hardest thing Angie would do. She drank in the sight of him, then gleefully said, "I will see you in a couple of days, Mommy is going on a trip, and you need to be a big boy for Beth and Mr. Jack ok?"303
Steven looked up at her and smiled, then hugging her and kissing her cheek ran off to play.304
"It is how it should be." Angie said.305
******************************************************306
The hotel room Angie was staying in was less than desirable. She had become spoilt at the mansion. But she didn’t know how long she would have to wait. Angie had picked up a waitressing job at a local diner and enjoyed the comradery she had there. Three weeks into this and no sign of Mitch. She was starting to get discouraged.307
She was pouring coffee for one of the regulars when she spied someone outside and across the street. Not paying attention, she heard the patron say "Hey Angie watch it."308
"O darn, I’m sorry Tom let me clean that up for you." Angie said as she looked at the coffee all over the table. Her hands were shaking as she went to put the coffee pot down. She thought it was Mitch across the street, but was it? She took the towel back to Tom’s station and cleaned up her mess.309
"Don’t worry about the bill Tom, it is on me and my clumsiness today." , Angie smiled down at him, he smiled back.310
"Eh, no worries, not the first time it happened, at least it didn’t land in my crotch" Tom said.311
Angie blushed immediately and moved away from the table. Waiting on her other customers. Glancing out side to see if that person was still there.312
***************************************************313
Mitch moved as soon as Angie made eye contact. He hadn’t wanted her to see him. In a week of watching her at the diner all day, she hadn’t spotted him. He was getting to know her pattern pretty well, and had noticed that particular person she was waiting on sat at her station each morning.314
He would put a stop to that. Mitch waited for Tom to come out of the diner and around the side to his car. Tom never saw his fist coming, and by the time Mitch was through with him, he wouldn’t see much of anything for a while.315
Angie panicked when someone rushed in and called for someone to dial the first-aid. She ran outside and about fell down when she saw Tom lying on the ground. She knew for sure now Mitch was there, and had been watching her. Tom had become his victim, and she turned, went inside and quit. She wouldn’t put anyone else in danger.316
The next morning, Angie called the hospital to check on Tom, but nothing had changed, he was still in intensive care. She decided it was time, for the hunted, to become the hunter.317
Guessing that Mitch would be at the same place, Angie went to work like she was still employed, walking through the front door, pouring a few cups of coffee then heading out the back. The cook in the diner looked at her like she had lost her mind, but Angie didn’t care, she had to see what Mitch was up to.318
Walking around the building she changed clothes in the alley. Putting on sneakers, and jeans she walked down the street a bit then doubled back on the opposite side.319
She spied Mitch in the bookstore across the street. The irony of him sitting there in the window pretending to read struck her as funny and she laughed a bit. It was about an hour before Mitch gave up and walked out of the bookstore. 320
Mitch was wondering what had happened to Angie, why she hadn’t been serving today. Maybe she was doing dishes he thought as he walked down the street. He stopped in a convenience store and bought a Playboy and some cigarettes. The magazine should tide him over until he can get Angie to himself for a few hours. The thoughts of what he would do to her made him hard, and he adjusted himself.321
Angie stayed just out of sight should he decide to turn around. As she had thought his hotel was within walking distance of where she had been working. She followed him there, got his room number then went back to her own motel.322
Sitting on the bed she contemplated her next move. He would never expect her to come after him. He was too sure of himself, too bold. She gathered her thoughts. She would do it tonight, before she had time to talk herself out of it. Angie laid down to rest, and fitfully she did.323
Waking about 1 am she gathered her things. Tucking the Smith and Wesson in her belt, she set off. Getting there took less time than she thought and she was shaking as she approached the front desk of the dive.324
Walking in she introduced herself to the night clerk. 325
"Hi, I’m Angie Monroe, my husband Mitch is in room 229, I am surprising him early, I was going to meet him tomorrow, but I left today, and well, can I have the key so I don’t disturb him?"326
The night clerk asked for i.d. and Angie showed it to him. He handed over the key with out any more questions. He didn’t get paid enough to care.327
Angie walked on shaky legs to Mitch’s room. She stood there, wondering if she was ready, then slowly slipped the key into the lock. Turning the knob slowly a little click was all she heard as the door opened. 328
Stepping inside she waited for her eyes to adjust. Then felt cold steel across her throat.329
"Hello bitch, did you think you could sneak up on me? That I wouldn’t see this coming? I’ve been waiting for you since the night clerk called. I will admit that I underestimated you; I thought it would be that man you are always with. The one who seems in charge up there. Is Jack his name? Well ole Jackie boy will get a great surprise when I send him a tape of what I did to you." Mitch said seethingly.330
Angie held her breath, afraid to move. This hadn’t been her plan.331
He removed the knife from her neck and pushed her down to the floor. Putting the knife on the bed he moved over to her. Angie had gotten up on her hands, and was facing him. A look of fear over took her face and Mitch smiled. He had her right were he wanted her.332
Angie let him believe what he wanted. She was afraid, no doubt, but that was a good thing. Fear was a powerful motivator. He came down upon her like a beast. Ripping open her shirt.333
He let out a stream of obscenities and raised his hand to hit her. Sensing her chance she pinned his leg and flipped him over. Hitting his head on the dresser he was disoriented long enough for Angie to get up. 334
"Why you little cunt, who do you think you are? You belong to me, don’t you know that, I OWN YOU."335
"No, Mitch, you don’t, I’m not that same, pathetic woman you used to know. I am Steven’s mother, I am Anne’s mother and I know what you did. I know you killed her Mitch, I know you held her under the water until she couldn’t breathe. How was it Mitch, watching her little body gasp for air?" Angie said all this while advancing towards Mitch; all the hate, and hurt and rage coursing through her body; all the saved up energy from the fights she never fought.336
She stood in front of him now, unafraid of dying, unafraid of what he may do to her.337
His first hit was like a mack truck, slamming into the side of her head. She shook it off and ducked the second one. The third blow came quickly and she threw him over into the TV.338
The crash it made was loud and the neighbors knocked on the wall. He stood up, dazed and confused.339
"Seems someone has gotten some lessons,” he said.340
"No, someone is tired of your shit, I’m not your victim anymore."341
She stepped to the side as he charged her, plunging him into the door. His rage was now working against him. He came at her again and she miscalculated. He pushed her onto the bed then stood between her legs. His hands pinned her arms. She reached desperately trying to dislodge them; soon realizing he was too strong to fight against. 342
He held her there, blood dripping off his head, and licked her face.343
"Sweet as ever." he said and she began to wretch.344
"Not my victim eh, I will show you whose victim you are. You always were a sweet fuck, lets see what ole Jackie has taught you."345
She felt the tip of the knife with her right index finger. He let go of her hand long enough to start unbuttoning her pants, grabbing the knife she didn’t think but plunged it deep into his chest.346
The look on his face couldn’t be described. He looked down at her, then at the knife. Backing away he pulled it out of his chest. That was the best thing for Angie that he could have done.347
Blood spurted out of him like a fountain, and she stood there watching. Watching the life drain out of his amazed face. When it was done, she sat down and called the police. About that time she heard a knock on the door.348
Walking over, she opened it. A man in uniform was there, a gun in her face.349
"I am Angie Monroe, and I just killed my husband Mitch." was all she said.350
The officer took one look at the place and called for paramedics. The paramedics arrived and started looking at Mitch. The officer looked at them and said "No, he is hopeless, make sure she is ok."351
***************************************************** 352
Angie spent hours at the police station retelling the incidents of the past year, from when she had left until tonight. She was exhausted when they finished and locked her into her cell.353
Angie closed her eyes and slept.354
A few hours later she heard her name being called. She awoke to find Jack standing there, beside an officer.355
They discharged her, after realizing who Mitch was and what he had done. His fingerprints matched those they found at the crime scene from the hooker, and on Tom’s car. Looking at Angie told them she had been defending her life. Jack had filled them in on the rest.356
Angie left, sitting in Jack’s car. 357
"Can I see Steven now?" was all she said.358
She watched out the window the entire ride home. Tears streaming down her face. It was over, it was hard to get used to. Were it not for the bruises and cuts on her body, she would think it was a dream.359
The mansion was quiet when they arrived. Steven was asleep in their room, Beth was watching him. Angie walked over and kissed him on the forehead. She nodded to Beth, as she rose to leave. There would be a lot to talk about in the coming days. For now, Angie wanted to sleep.360
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CHAPTER 10362
When silence abounds363
The world is still364
She listens to the cry of her heart365
Afraid to see366
The dreams hidden367
By sheer curtains 368
Of a foggy existence369
Veiled in necessity370
Opaque by nature371
Riddles in her mind 372
She puts the pieces together373
Slowly a picture emerges374
Of beauty and worth375
Of pleasure and pain376
Of strength and flexibility377
And she realizes378
The picture staring back379
With blue eyes leading to her soul380
Is she.381
**********************************************************************382
Standing with the sunset fading on the waves, Angie holds Stevens’s hand tight. Their toes wriggle in the cold ocean water, and they shiver. December isn’t the best time of year to visit the ocean, but she was here with a mission.383
Taking the ring into her right hand, she flings it as far as it will go. Watching as one last glimmer catches the gold before it sinks into the sand below.384
Turning to Steven she smiles and says, "It is over."385
Tousling his hair she turns and chases him up the beach. His laughter echoing through the air, freedoms final toll.386
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What did you think? Please comment!
Comments
1 - 7 of 7
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Amazing story Beth! I didn't want to stop reading...didnt wanna go to the bathroom and leave this story lol. I wish it was longer I was really getting into it. You really should add more and get it published i LOVED it
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aww thanks dave, i really do appreciate it.
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All together with certain changes had this flow smoothly along. It was interesting to reread the whole thing, and once again get caught up in the story. Great job and congrats to you. Dave
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THANK YOU VERY MUCH i was suprised to see that someone had read it..well besides my care bear anyway.. im glad you enjoyed it and yea, i have thought about adding fluff..but i have to sit on it a while. thanks again.
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nah you just love me
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Awesome
I love this story! Your characters were really well developed and I was cheering Angie on through the whole story, and hoping that Mitch would get hit by a bus. Well, at least he got what he deserved, even if it wasn't a bus. This story is really great, and I think that you could probably elongate it into a book and get it published. Good job! -
This still needs to be printed out and bound and sent off to see what could become of it....I love this piece, this story..this truimphant piece of extraordinary work. This is raw, from your heart,and just a wow me kind of piece.
Carrie
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