Breaking Free
Trigger Warning: This story contains scenes of domestic violence, and physical and emotional abuse. The main character was in an abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, who hurt her both physically and mentally. The story also depicts the main character's struggle to escape from the abuse and find love and healing with another person. If you are sensitive to these topics, please read with caution. If you are experiencing domestic violence or need help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit their website. You are not alone, and you deserve to be safe and happy.
Chapter 9
BELLA
Detective Ryan Carter's towering figure loomed over me, his cold gaze making me shiver involuntarily, causing me to instinctively reach for Edward's hand. As I observed him closely, it became apparent that he was in his late fifties, with short, distinguished gray hair and a meticulously groomed beard. The question of whether he was American or British lingered in my mind, as I took note of his navy blue slacks, crisp white shirt, and a striking red tie.
His belt held both a badge and a gun, a clear indication of his authority. His piercing blue eyes scrutinized Edward and me, but it was the stern expression etched upon his face that reminded me of Chris' disapproving gaze whenever he was angry. This resemblance made me apprehensive about engaging in conversation with Detective Carter.
"Miss Swan," he began, his voice carrying a slight British accent that exuded confidence, before glancing at the notepad in his hand. "Or would you prefer Isabella, or perhaps Bella?"
As his eyes met mine once more, his features relaxed, and I found myself easing up slightly.
He's here to help me, I reassured myself silently. He won't harm me.
"Bella's fine," I replied, my voice betraying a hint of nervousness.
"Alright, Bella. I'm Detective Carter. My friends call me Ryan. Consider me a friend," he chuckled, amused by my bewildered expression. "I've been assigned to your case and I'm here to gather a statement from you."
I couldn't help but relax a little further at his words, though I remained cautious, refusing to let my guard down completely.
Indeed, Detective Carter seemed like a formidable figure, but perhaps there was more to him than met the eye. As we embarked on this journey together, I couldn't help but hope that his presence would bring us closer to unraveling the mysteries that plagued my life.
"Where do we begin?" I inquired, my voice laced with uncertainty.
Carter, the seasoned detective, responded with a calm assurance, "Wherever you would like to, Bella. There's no need to follow any particular order. Just start by telling me what happened. But before we delve into the details, may I know the name of your friend?"
My gaze shifted towards Edward, seeking solace in his presence. He understood my unspoken fears and offered a reassuring squeeze of my hand before stepping forward. I knew exactly what he was about to do. With a gesture of goodwill, he extended his hand towards the detective, introducing himself, "I'm Edward, Bella's boyfriend."
Detective Carter turned his attention towards me, his eyes searching for confirmation. "Bella, is that true?" he inquired, his tone gentle yet probing.
In truth, it wasn't entirely accurate. I couldn't reveal the real reason behind Edward's claim. He had taken on the role of my boyfriend to shield me from harm, to provide me with a sense of security amidst the chaos that had engulfed my life. I needed all the protection and assistance I could get, and Edward was willing to go to great lengths to ensure my safety. With a deep breath, I mustered the courage to respond, "Um… yes, Edward's my boyfriend."
A mischievous grin spread across Carter's face, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Good. I was afraid I might have to arrest him," he quipped, his playful wink directed at me.
In that moment, I found myself warming up to the detective. His years of experience had undoubtedly taught him the art of putting victims at ease, of building trust through subtle gestures and light-hearted banter.
As I closed my eyes, I allowed the memories of the fateful events that led me to this sterile hospital room to flood my mind. It was a chaotic whirlwind of shattered images, like shards of glass scattered across the floor of my consciousness. But now, as I opened my eyes and prepared to recount the tale, I felt a surge of determination coursing through my veins.
Leaning back against the sterile white pillows, I began to speak, my voice laced with a mixture of vulnerability and strength. "It all started innocently enough, you know. A night out with my coworkers, a delightful evening filled with laughter, good food, and a captivating show. We reveled in the joy of each other's company, savoring the freedom that comes with being young and carefree."
A flicker of pain crossed my face as I continued, my gaze fixed on the distant horizon. "But as the night wore on, the clock ticking past the witching hour, I found myself returning home, the remnants of the evening's merriment still lingering in the air. Little did I know that the tranquility of my sanctuary would be shattered by an unexpected intrusion."
A shiver ran down my spine as I recalled the moment that changed everything. "A peculiar noise, barely audible yet hauntingly distinct, drew my attention to my bedroom. My heart raced, a sense of foreboding creeping into my bones. I cautiously pushed open the door, half-expecting to find a forgotten radio or television left on. But what I discovered was far more devastating."
Pausing for a moment, I inhaled deeply, gathering my thoughts and summoning the courage to relive the painful memories. "There, in the sacred confines of my bed, lay my boyfriend, Chris Stone, entangled with another woman. The sight was like a dagger to my heart, a betrayal that cut through the very fabric of my being. Anguish and fury surged within me, and I unleashed a scream that echoed through the walls, demanding their immediate departure from my bed and my life."
My voice trembled as I recounted the ensuing chaos. "I confronted Chris, reminding him that our relationship had long since crumbled into dust. But his response was not one of remorse or apology. Instead, he uttered words that I can't remember now, but they were a venomous retort that stung my wounded soul. And then, without warning, his hand collided with my face, the force of the blow sending me spiraling into darkness."
I halted once more, my mind racing as I tried to recollect the events that had transpired. My recollection was hazy, and I struggled to piece together the fragments of my memory. "When I regained consciousness, they left. I felt disoriented and lost, but somehow, I managed to make my way to Edward's apartment."
Detective Carter looked at me intently, his pen ready to write on his notepad. "I'm sorry, Bella," he said, his voice gentle and compassionate. "I know this is hard for you, but I need to know. Did Chris have a key to your place?"
I shook my head emphatically. "No," I said, my voice clear and confident.
Detective Carter nodded and asked another question. "What about the woman? Did you know her?"
I bit my lip and tried to remember if I had seen her before. "I don't think so," I said. "Everything is blurry after Chris hit me."
Detective Carter gave me an understanding look and said, "It's okay, Bella. You don't have to remember everything right now. You've been through a lot. You've given me enough to go on."
He closed his notepad and put it in his pocket. He looked at Edward and me with a serious look.
"I'm going to follow up on some leads and see if I can find Chris and the woman. They won't get away with this, I promise you. I'll be in touch with you as soon as I have any updates."
He stood up and headed towards the door. He paused and turned to Bella.
"Take care of yourself, Bella. And don't worry, you're safe now. You have a good man by your side," he said, nodding at Edward.
He smiled and left the room, closing the door behind him.
I felt a surge of gratitude and relief for Detective Carter. He was a good detective and a good friend. He was doing everything he could to catch Chris and bring him to justice.
I looked at Edward and saw the same feelings in his eyes. He reached out and hugged me, whispering in my ear.
"I'm so proud of you, Bella. You're amazing. You're strong. You're brave."
I hugged him back and felt a warmth in my chest. He was amazing too. He was strong too. He was brave too.
He was pretending to be my boyfriend.
And I wished he was really my boyfriend.
And I loved him.