Tangled Love

I turn the shower off and pause for a moment, closing my eyes. Lately everything around me has been moving at lightning speed so a taking a second or two to collect my thoughts makes me feel better. I step out of the shower and notice my phone screen flashing with numerous messages. I reach over and pick it up, reading the first message —

Where the hell are you Emily ? Mum

I quickly type out a response, my features scrunched up in frustration at the screen —

I've left home. Im not living with Trevor or you anymore. Bye Mum.

It's nice to regain control of my life after having it spin out of control for so long. I hope Mum understands that I'm doing this for myself and my safety. The next message is from an unknown number and I pause, a familiar feeling of dread washing over me.

You need a man to love you Emily, not a little boy.

I sigh heavily, feeling the pressure building up inside my head as a headache begins to brew.

Who are you? GO AWAY.

I hesitate before sending the text, uncertain whether I'm making the right decision. Should I completely ignore him or show him that I'm not scared? I send the text and don't expect his response to be almost immediate but it is.

It is not the right time. I will never go away. . . Not until you're mine.

borderline psychotic stalker behaviour. I turn my phone off and push him to the back of my mind. No way do I need more hassle on top of everything else going

back to my room and change into my favourite pyjamas — pink with hearts all over them. Once I'm dressed I blow dry my hair and

waist from behind. I jump a little before realising who it is. His scent wraps all around me and the tension in my body completely disappears. I sigh and relax against him, my lips tugging

I bite back the smile and turn around, looking up

of me lately Melvin." I smile sweetly at him. His eyes flash with amusement before raking down my body and back up again.

"I can't help it when you're covered in bright pink love hearts."

of milk

me an apologetic look, placing the empty glass back down

These bad boys don't feed themselves you know." He winks, flexing his right arm. The

not the only thing that shoots right up

as I stare wide eyed at Jake. He shrugs casually in response, his lips

Jesus!" I yell after him, reaching for the milk to heat another glassful. His laughter fills the air causing me

by now. I pull open the door and find Jake leaning against my door frame, fully dressed. He's wearing a plain white shirt underneath his black bomber jacket, finished off with black jeans. I can't

resemble a potato. A potato

He lifts a finger to his lips, shushing me before entering my room. I take a step back

midnight. Are you crazy?"

you somewhere." Jake replies, leaning back against my door with his hands stuffed inside his

a surprise Muffin, get dressed." Jake instructs me, pushing his