She clutches her chest; willing her heart to slow itself down. She was panting, dizzy and excited. Her emotions were filling up her whole body making her radiate with energy.

This. This is what I need. What I live for. Clare Edwards repeats over and over in her head, her personal mantra.

Another slap in the face.

Another high.

An endless cycle that she isn't able to hide. The bruises cover her entire body. Sensitive purple and green patches that show Eli's love.

You see, Clare Edwards is what some may call masochistic. She enjoyed the pain. It gave her a rush. So when her boyfriend of three years first hit her, she knew. She knew she'd never get away. Not that she wanted to…