Page 3 of Doc's Decision

Tony’s still ranting and raving, but his voice is growing hoarse.

He can’t keep this up forever.

My gaze darts around the cramped room at the tattered band posters and thrift store knickknacks.

I’ve wasted too many years here already, trapped in this cycle of poverty and abuse.

I can’t let it suck me in any deeper.

Jaw clenched with determination, I drag my duffle bag from the closet and start shoving clothes inside.

A plan begins to take shape in my mind.

It’s a long shot, but what do I have to lose?

Anything’s better than rotting away in this toxic wasteland.

I’m getting the hell out of here.

Tonight.

The trailer door slams, rattling the thin walls.

I freeze, straining to hear over my pounding heart.

Muffled curses and the crunch of gravel signal Tony’s departure.

I don’t trust the silence.

It could be a trap, him lying in wait to catch me off guard.

But as an engine growls to life and tires spit dirt, I let out a shaky breath.

He’s gone, but he’s likely to blow more cash at the local dive.

Adrenaline urges me into action. I zip up the duffle, the clothing jumbled inside, mirroring my chaotic thoughts.

My hands tremble as I yank on boots and a hoodie, ignoring the metallic taste of blood on my tongue.

I can’t afford to fall apart now.

Swiping the little savings from my sock drawer, I stuff the crumpled bills into my pocket.

It’s not much, but it’ll have to do.

I slip out the back door, daring one last glance at the rusted trailer I’ve called home for far too long.

Part of me aches at abandoning Mom and my little brother, Alfie, but she made her choice long ago.

I have to save myself before I go down with her.

Gravel bites into my soles as I hurry down the darkened road, duffle bouncing against my hip.

My best friend, Harlow’s place is a good mile away, but I don’t dare slow down.

Fear propels me forward, my breaths coming in harsh puffs.

I can’t shake the feeling that Tony might return any second. His fury reignited.

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