Summary: His eyes begged me not to speak, but I couldn't control the words. "We can go far away, far away from everything. We can have a new life. A better life."

Within a couple weeks, I was playing with more confidence and skill. He seemed genuinely pleased with the results. I had even surprised him at times, especially when I was able to play and sing at the same time. "That's not hard for you?" he asked. "No." He had grinned then. "So you're a natural then. Good. It will help. And you have a good voice."

For some reason, his compliment touched me. "Thanks." To my surprise, he ruffled my hair gently. A quiet understanding passed between the two of us then. But I wasn't sure exactly what.

The lightning flashed dangerously; the thunder shook the windows.

My cell phone suddenly vibrated in my pocket, startling me.

"Is your dad home?" he asked, his voice husky. "No," I whispered, trembling. "What about your mom? Your brother?" I exhaled slowly. "No."

I opened the door for him, welcoming him into the warmth and coziness of our house—shelter from the strong torrents of heavy wind and rain. He was absolutely soaked. And slightly shivering.

"Do you want some cocoa?"

Five minutes later, he and I sat comfortably on the sofa, sipping the scalding hot chocolate and relishing in the warmth of the fire. The flames gently licked the air and occasionally sparked. It was a very calming effect.

But then he set his mug down.

"Meadow."

My name was honey on his lips. And then his strong hand was caressing my cheek, twirling my hair, massaging my scalp. Closing my eyes, I sighed at the pleasant sensation and fell into his arms, leaning back against his chest. My mug fell to the floor, chocolate liquid pouring out and staining the carpet.

My head leaned back and our lips met. I softly moaned into his mouth, enjoying the feeling of kissing him. He opened my mouth with his, sliding his tongue in, probing mine. I groaned deliciously and reveled in his sweet taste. Our lips grew numb from the insistent rubbing.

Impatient, he flipped me over, tore my skirt off. My lips were swollen and bruised, and my eyes were heavy-lidded. The satisfying sound of his zipper being pulled down reached my ears. My panties suffered the same unfortunate fate as my skirt.

And then…he filled me, and I was complete. Our lips met again, and I was lost. I could only follow his rhythm, trust in him completely. My back arched, my senses failed, and I shuddered as I…

Woke up.

My body was slick with sweat head-to-toe, and I was shaking.

I listened to the soothing hum of the night, and my mind calmed, my thoughts quieted. Thunder was rumbling on overhead.

I squeezed my eyes tightly. What the FUCK had happened?