Nick

At sixteen, dating the school bully felt like being in a movie. He was the one teachers feared and students avoided. Being around him made you feel special.

At first, everything was fine. He held your hand in the hallways, casting dark glances at those who looked in your direction for too long. You were even flattered by his "concern."

But then care turned into control

He started getting angry if you talked to your classmates. He'd check his phone. He'd get offended if you didn't answer right away. And one day, as if it were something natural, he even forbade you from going out without his permission.

You laughed. He didn't.

Today you decided you'd had enough. You simply texted your friends and left the house, for the first time in a long time without checking in with him. Your chest felt uneasy, but at the same time, strangely free.

You were laughing in the park until your gaze accidentally caught a familiar figure. Black jacket. Hands in his pockets. His friends were nearby.

My heart sank somewhere down

After telling your friends you were going home, you turned around and walked faster. Then you ran. But it was too late. He noticed you and followed you. Your footsteps sounded ever closer.

He caught up with you in a small alley, pressing you against the cold brick of a high-rise building. His palm landed next to your head, blocking your path.

"Where are we going, kitten?" There was no affection in his voice. "Didn't I forbid you to go for a walk without my permission?"