Author's Note: I know this storyline has been over done on this site. But, I decided to give it a shot. Please don't hate.
Disclaimer: I don't own Degrassi.
Beep! Beep! Beep!
Ugh. Morning already? No. I don't want to get up. I don't want to go to school. Can't I just stay under the covers forever? Hmm, I wish. That would make things easier. But life isn't easy. Especially mine.
I reached out my hand attempting to shut off the annoying alarm clock. If I would have watched what I was doing, I wouldn't have knocked the picture of Ryan and I over. Not that I care really. When my hand finally found the alarm clock, I sighed contently. Now, maybe I could go back to sleep.
"Clare! You awake?" I heard my father call from downstairs. Well, I guess I won't be able to hide today.
Defeated, I finally go out of bed. Stretching as I went to the bathroom for my usual morning ritual.
After finishing my shower, I wrapped a towel around myself and walked back to my bedroom. Realizing that I never replied to my Dad, I called through the door, "Give me 15 minutes."
I pulled on my underwear and searched for a comfortable bra. Finding my light blue cotton one, I put it on before heading to my closet. I chose a light weight long sleeved navy tee shirt. My favorite light washed flare jeans went well with the shirt. I also added a chunky brown belt and some brown ballet flat shoes.
Now comes what I hate doing most. I have to cover the evidence, the bruises.
I sat down in front of my vanity. The girl in the mirror I barely recognized. She was emotionless.
Clare Edwards would never look like this. She wouldn't never have to cover the bruises with concealer. I never thought I would be in this position. I never thought I would be in an abusive relationship.
It didn't start out this way. At first he was a gentleman. He always made me feel loved. He made me feel like I was the only girl in the entire would. He was perfect. We were perfect together.
Or well, I thought. I didn't know he had such a temper until about 5 months ago. When my life became hell.
I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember how scared I was and the look in his eyes. I remember the sting and pain that followed after that first slap. I remember crying myself to sleep that night and praying it was a one time thing. I remember the apologies the next day and the promise that it would never happen again. And I remember how stupid I was to believe him.
Ryan and I have been together for nearly 8 months now. I know who I am allowed to talk to and who I'm not allowed to talk to. I know what to wear and what not to wear. I know what makes him happy and what sets him off. I try my best to follow the rules and if I do, I'm not punished. If I break a rule, I am punished.
It just so happens that Saturday, I was disrespectful and had to be punished. So, now here I sit, trying to cover my bruised cheek. I can't let anyone know. Not Alli, not my parents, not any teachers, and definitely not Eli.
Ryan and Eli don't exactly get along, but they tolerate each other. They were in the same grade, so they had some classes together. If it wasn't for the fact that I've known Eli longer than Ryan, he probably wouldn't let me hang out with him.
He is my best friend and has been since the day Mrs. Dawes decided to make us English partners.
Suddenly my memories were interrupted by my cell phone alerting me that I have a new text message.
Where are you?
Ugh, it's Ryan. I replied quickly, not wanting to uset him.
Be there soon. Overslept.
I lied. I didn't oversleep, but I need an excuse if I'm going to be late.
Whatever. You know I don't like walking in alone.
Crap. It's going to be a bad day, I can already tell. I quickly sent an apology before checking my face one more time and finally heading downstairs where my Dad was waiting for me.
"Thanks for the ride, Dad." I smiled and waved at him before getting out of the shiny silver SUV.
After watching my Dad drive away, I turned to face the school. There he was. Ryan was standing near the steps. His eyes were angry.
He started walking towards me, quickly. I swallowed the lump in my throat and spoke when he was close.
"Good morning Ryan." He scoffed, clearly upset.
Grabbing my arm, he pulled me with him inside of the school. I had trouble keeping up and almost fell a few times. On the way to my locker we passed Eli. He looked at me and I smiled, hoping to hide any fear in my eyes.
When we got to my locker, Ryan finally released my arm. He stood there silently while I retrieved my books.
"Hey Clare….Ryan." I heard a familiar voice.
I turned around, hoping it wasn't who I thought it was. Of course, it had to be him.
Ryan put his arm around my waist, roughly pulling me to him. He was quite possesive.
"Hi." I whispered and flinched a little when Ryan tightened his grip on my waist, digging his fingernails into my body.
Eli eyed me, obviously noticing when I flinched. He started to say something when the bell rang.
"See you later man." Ryan called over his shoulder as he pulled me down the hallway.
Before turning the corner, I looked back to Eli, mouthing 'I'm sorry.' He stood there shaking his head slightly, his eyes - intense and full of concern.
I was relieved when we finally made it to my first class. Ryan let me go, but I didn't dare move. Not yet. He kissed my cheek and leaned in close whispering harshly, "Be a good girl." Then he was gone.
Watching him walk away from me, I realized I was holding my breath.
I finally took a breath. You're okay Clare. You'll be okay Clare. He loves you. He only does this stuff to help you. You need him.
I need him.
I need him.
I need him.
I fear him.
Author's Note: Yeahh, so that is that.. Reviews? I plan 5 chapters for this story..