A/N Aww we all feel in love with Garrett... I love my ladies: my beta mauigirl60 amd my pre-readers and cheerleaders: Mandi and Missy!

Disclaimer: I don't own squat... well. at least not Twilight... ENJOY if you can...

Ch 20

The next few weeks and months blended into a hazy mix of happiness and contentment I hadn't experienced in a long time. Ever since that night with Garrett, our relationship grew stronger. I found myself seeking out his touch and it was much more than just a kiss. His hands were gentle the night we finally made love. He kissed all the scars that were left by you and his hands never gripped me too tightly. He whispered words of love and adoration and they replaced the ugly ones you spoke.

In the morning, there weren't any marks marring my skin. I felt his love more tangibly on my body than I ever felt from you. His face never scowled at me when I messed up and he never raised his fist to me. When we disagreed, we talked it out without names and objects flying at my head. He showed me in words and actions that love didn't have to hurt. He showed me how love could make me better, stronger, and more beautiful.

I loved being back in school, it was as if the last piece of my life had fallen into place, and I felt normal once more. I had a job I loved, friends who supported me, and a boyfriend who cherished me. It seemed as if the ugliness was behind me. Even Kate commented on how much happier and more relaxed I appeared in our sessions. It was cool that she could see the change in me as well. It made me feel as if I had finally turned a corner.

So, when I started to have feelings of being watched, I pushed them aside. I had no reason to feel that way; I'd been away from you for eight months. I dismissed my feelings as left over remnants of what you did to me. I even refrained from mentioning it to Kate, so sure that it was all in my head.

But, one night after studying, I wasn't able to stop the panic from growing. I had received several hang-up calls, there were no words, not even heavy breathing- just silence. They didn't bother me until they were non-stop; eventually, I had to turn my phone off to get some studying done. I had a security guard walk me to my car because I couldn't shake the feeling of eyes being upon me.

The entire drive I felt as if I was being followed, but it was hard to be sure since it was dark outside. Instead of going straight home, I drove to Garrett's. My body shook as I ran up his stairs, the hair on my arms was standing up, and I felt freaked out. When he finally opened his door, I was breathing hard. It took him several hours to calm me down. Even in the safety of his arms I felt as if I was no longer safe.

A/N: *THUMP* Hmm that must be that other shoe... is he back or is she just being paranoid? Would love to hear your thoughts! See ya on Friday!