Victim to Victor: The rise to Love

Chapter 4

The death of Scott Haven left a hole in Storm's heart. Defeated and distraught, Storm sank into her beloved father's bed, pulling the sheet to her nostrils and inhaling the only thing left behind. A single tear was all it took to break the barrier Storm held up. Sobbing wholeheartedly, her heart ached, her stomach clenched up and her throat constricted. Left alone with a mother who had no care for her, and no love since birth, surely Storm wouldn't survive much longer.

“She tried to kill me! What's going to stop her from trying it again?!” Storm whispered as everything finally dawned on her.

“My mother has managed to chase the whole family away, and now I'm all that's left. Stuck with the hatred she has for me!”

Storm's tears fell fiercely, silent sobs had turned into tormented cries. Uncertainty had clouded her once-clear dreams. Her once bright future is now dull in perception.

Unable to contain the overwhelming pain, Storm's tears drained her energy until sleep silently took her in. Suffering continued to haunt Storm's dreams, her sweat-covered body moistening the dried blood on her head, neck and clothes. Slowly the metallic scent overtook the comforting smell of her father and all too soon Storm awoke. Feeling empty and emotionally depleted Storm shifted out of bed, it must have been just after midnight. Storm left the comfort of her father's room. It was time to wash the blood and pain away and with this, headed towards the bathroom. As Storm stood under the soothing jets of water, she watched the crimson trails of blood leave her body, swirling on the tiles before disappearing down the drain. Her scalp was tender as she massaged the shampoo into her jet-black hair. Storm used her father's body wash to console her with some sort of closeness. She had been through so much in such a short time, and yet she never thought she would have to face it all without him. Although her father had wished her a life of love and hope, Storm could not imagine that life without Scott to share it with.

Leaving the shower, Storm could feel the hunger ache in her belly. It had been a full day without even a morsel of food passing her lips. She quickly dried off and got dressed, making her way into the kitchen. Although, besides the rumbling in her stomach being consistent, Storm had no appetite. Opting for an apple, she went back to her room. Sitting at her desk she opened up her school books, between bites she read what she assumed would be the work that she had missed at school. To say it was difficult to concentrate was an understatement, her world flashed before her eyes. Replaying images of darkness and gloom, a world void without her father. Storm wondered if her mother had even arranged for a funeral, had she told the family? Probably not, since she only felt resentment for whoever crossed her path. She wondered if her family would show her the same kindness they had shown her when she was younger and her father was well. Storm so badly wanted to reach out, to be pulled into a family that would love her. What silly thoughts, her mother would probably deny her happiness for as long as she lived. Storm closed her books and got into bed. Unsure how the next few days were going to unfold, she covered her head with her pillow and willed herself to sleep.

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! The all-familiar sound of her alarm clock went. Storm sat up, turning the alarm off before stretching her body out. She got out of bed, her father had died and her mother tried to kill her. Yet the world didn't stop, life was still fast in pace and unforgiving. Storm took a quick shower, put on her school uniform and made her way to the kitchen once more. She set out some painkillers and a glass of water on the counter for her mother, a now daily routine before grabbing some fruit to pack in for lunch. Taking a granola bar to eat on the go, Storm collected her school bag and left the house. Life in the small town suddenly whizzed past Storm as her mind captured her full attention, her slow pace did not cushion the blow as she firmly collided with someone.

Suddenly, pulled out of thought Storm realized she had knocked a girl over. Storm helped the girl up and then fell to her knees apologizing profusely. She couldn't help but shed a few tears at her clumsy encounter. She awaited the harsh response of the girl for her uncoordinated accident.

Instead, Storm felt a warm hand cup her cheek, stroking stray tears away.

“Hey, it's okay. I'm fine, it was an accident. Don't cry please.” the girl whispered.

Taking Storm's hands in her own, the girl knelt. Looking into Storm's puffy, red eyes, was a pair of beautiful honey-brown eyes.

“Are you okay?” Asked the girl.

Her eyes danced with kindness and concern.

“Yeah, I'm okay. I'm sorry for not looking where I was going.” Storm finally spoke.

“There's no need to apologize, it was an honest mistake. I'm Izzy by the way, I think we're neighbours. I'm on my way to school if you want to walk together?” Said Izzy sporting a warm smile.

Getting up and pulling Storm to her feet.

“I'd like that very much, I'm Storm.” Said a now very shy Storm.

She wondered why she had never seen Izzy before. As they walked they made small talk, Izzy turned out to be a very bubbly girl, her laughter contagious as it lifted Storm's spirits. Storm found out that Izzy was a senior in high school, which made her about 17 or 18 years old. Izzy was also a big bookworm and spent many days lost in books, the adventures and different worlds between pages captivated her. As they neared Storm's school, she felt that hollow feeling return. Her new friend was bound to part ways with her to continue her journey towards her school.

“So Storm, it's been nice to meet you. We should do this more often. I look forward to bumping into you again” Izzy winked emphasizing the joke she had just made.

Storm smiled less enthusiastic this time.

“Thank you for walking me to school, and for being so kind. I should get going, I'd enjoy your Company again, Izzy.” Replied Storm.

With that, they parted ways.

The school day dragged, as Storm could not manage to focus. Her heart all but ached, images of Izzy's smile easing the pain from time to time. The reminder of returning home to her mother, made Storm's stomach turn. It seemed so strange, so unreal, just a few months ago Storm had it all. She was the center of her father's universe, treated like royalty, having all the time in the world to spend on her schoolwork. Storm only wanted to be the best she could be, determined to succeed, she had always given each class her all. Now she was the complete opposite, the day after her father passed. Storm was the living definition of failure. Her wants and goals are thrown out the window. All she wanted now, was to have her father back. At least it was Friday, giving her time to pull herself together over the weekend. When the school day finally ended, Storm packed up her belongings and slowly exited the classroom. Some kids Storm had befriended in the past had asked Storm if she was ok since she wasn't her usual bright and chirpy self. Yet Storm could only manage a meek smile as she nodded and pushed forward. Upon her journey leaving the school grounds, Storm's eyes fell on a tall-looking blonde. Sure enough amber eyes stared back at her hazel ones, and an endearing smile played across her lips. It was Izzy, Storm ventured towards the girl and asked,

“What are you doing here?”

“School ended early today and I thought I'd wait around for you. You seemed a bit down and by all means, I don't intend to pry out answers, but at least I could walk home with you, Storm”, came Izzy's heartfelt response.

Izzy hooked her arm into Storm's as she continued,

“No point in fighting it, I think we're going to become great friends!”

Giving a small giggle towards the end. Storm's eyes grew misty, she didn't feel like she deserved a friend when she felt so numb inside. They walked home at an agonizingly slow pace, Izzy had done all the talking while Storm nodded and shook her head when asked a simple question. Storm was grateful for having the silence filled with Izzy's light and cheerful chatter, however it could not slow her now rapidly beating heart. They had reached their destination and Storm could not fight off the fear and confusion eating at her, not knowing what going home held in store for her.

“Hey, if you ever want to talk or if you need anything, you know where to find me”. Izzy said as she pulled Storm into a warm embrace.

A tear broke free from Storm's eye as she whispered a “Thank You.”

The hug felt that of love, the kind her father had wrapped her in.

Regretfully, Storm let go of the tender hug. Saying their farewells, Storm approached her home, her once safe haven. Taking a deep breath she turned the doorknob, upon entering she let go of the breath she didn't know she was still holding. The smell of stale alcohol and cigarettes wafted through the air.

As Storm entered the kitchen she saw that the painkillers and water were gone and had been replaced with empty wine bottles, three this time. This never used to happen,

“Mom! I'm home!” Storm called out.

No response, she guessed her mom was out at the local bar. Her home is away from home these days. Going to her room, Storm set down her school bag and changed into her normal clothes. Left alone to fend for herself once more, Storm cleared the empty bottles and cigarette buds and continued to clean the house and make dinner. Luckily her food preparations had worked out, so all that was left was to defrost it and spice it up a bit. Having eaten, she cleaned up behind herself and made her way to her father's bedroom. Storm missed him dearly, all the memories of the two of them together laughing and having fun flooding her mind. She remembered the letter and in it stating there were more. Her father's idea of one last treasure hunt she thought as she entered the room. It smelt less like him today, the room was dark and empty, the same way she was feeling inside. Looking around, Storm all but wondered where to start. First, though, Storm got onto her father's bed, legs crossed and facing the headboard where her father weakly sat not so long ago.

“Daddy, I miss you so much! I wish you were here, mom's drunk all the time and doesn't care whether I'm alive or dead. I know I shouldn't, but I wish it was her instead. Not only that, but I need a hug Daddy, one of those that makes you forget everything bad and just enjoy the warmth. Today I met a girl, I walked straight into her like a blind fool. I was so scared she would yell at me, but she didn't. The complete opposite actually, she wiped my tears helped me up and smiled at me. She was so kind, it made me think of you Daddy, I can't even remember a time I've ever seen you angry. She's our neighbour, odd right? You live in a place your whole life, and you don't even know your neighbours. I was so ashamed, she offered to walk with me to school. She's a senior though, when she left I felt like the piece of you I found in her had been taken away as well. I couldn't think at school or do anything other than scribble a few senseless words. My life isn't the same without you Daddy. Izzy, that's her name, was waiting for me when I left school. She got off early and waited for ME, for who knows how long. Again I saw you, Daddy, taking me to school and then being right there when school was out. It's hard for me to talk to her, she's so kind and genuine that I feel like I have nothing to offer her. I feel so incapable of feeling, I want to cry all the time and even that feels pointless because it still hurts. Emotional pain becomes physical pain, and I'm left feeling torn on how to let go of the aching in my soul. I don't know what to do, All I know is that when Izzy hugged me today, the hurt in my heart faded, it was as if love itself embraced me. The kind of hug you gave me Daddy, I never wanted to let go. At that moment it was as if you never left, I came home, and you hugged me and things were back to normal. It wasn't though, as soon as I let go the world came flooding back like a tsunami. I hope that Izzy and I can be friends, even if she's much older than me, even if I feel like I don't deserve her kindness. After seeing so much of you in her daddy, I don't think I'd want to avoid her. I hope that wherever you are, you feel loved and free Dad. I'm happy that you don't have to fight in vain anymore, I just don't know if I'll ever be the same without you. Your little princess loves you with all her heart, always and forever. I'm going to look for more letters now Daddy. We'll talk soon again.”

With that said, even with tears silently falling, Storm smiled.

So the scavenger hunt began, Storm looked in the books on her father's bedside table. Although the first letter was produced from the pile, there were none to accompany it. She then searched her father's dresser, also nothing. Discouraged some, Storm looked around the room for good hiding places. Her father had said he had written letters often but never mentioned how many or where to find them. Then struck by an idea, Storm looked through her father's medicine cabinet, and sure enough a letter was found. Storm was so excited she nearly did a little happy dance! She took the envelope and held it to her chest for an instant, a moment with her father was granted once more, she traced the writing on the front of it with her finger before delicately opening the envelope to reveal the treasure inside.

“My dearest princess,

Today was one of my better days, I was so happy that I got to spend some time with you. Many days I lay frail and in pain, but when you read to me, I close my eyes and envision myself as the adventurer. Even at 12 years old, you read with so much passion and fire that it wakes my soul and I want to keep fighting, need to. I'm so proud of you Storm, you have this light in you that is so pure it makes me want to right all the wrongs in the world. I know in life this light of yours will reach out and touch many lives. Never let anyone put that light out, Storm. Today you helped me shave my hair off, well what was left of it. You had gotten creative and invented many new and unflattering styles. Thank you, Storm, for making the loss of my hair more bearable. Something as silly as losing hair can feel like losing your whole identity, I'm not sure if you understand right now but I know that someday you will. I realized in that moment, that with that ridiculous new hairstyle of bald and shiny, regardless of how my appearance changed I could always still identify as your father. That thought brought me such joy and tremendous relief. You loved me no matter what I looked like. I do hope that you don't pursue a career in hairdressing, it is not your thing my darling. Daddy loves you.“

Her face glistened as she bawled once more, Storm recalled the fond memories of that day. She had shaved a mow hawk for her father and giggled uncontrollably at the result. He looked like a punk rocker from the 90s with his patchy do. She placed the letter back in the envelope and made the retreat back to her bedroom, where she placed the letter with the other, in her cupboard drawer.

Storm fell onto her bed, exhausted, she still had homework due on Monday. Maybe a hot shower would revive her tired mind? She lay a few minutes longer before collecting her pyjamas and lazily made her way to the bathroom. Storm found herself staring in the mirror and wondering what the future held for the young girl looking back at her. The girl looked out of place, puffy eyes from all the tears shed, the cut along the side of her neck, though short in length was deep enough to split the skin leaving it a plump pink shade. Staring back at her was a stranger at this point. Her whole life turned upside down overnight and her fight to act like everything was normal while her insides consumed her. She cleaned the wound and put a waterproof band-aid on before undressing and getting into the shower closing her eyes and still seeing that fragile girl staring back at her. In time, she hoped that would change.

Storm finally managed to finish up in the bathroom. Feeling a bit better, and somewhat revitalized, Storm's next objective was homework. It was one of those 'Now or never' moments.

Homework took about an hour to finish, the question at hand though was where was her mother? It was 10 pm and Storm had not once seen her mother today. Due to her dad's passing, Storm knew that her mother had been given leave and was not expected back for at least two weeks. Although Storm didn't have the energy to wait up much longer, however so, worry crept in and the fear of abandonment toyed with her thoughts as she slipped into bed. As soon as Storm's head hit the comfort of her pillow, she was out. Thoughts plagued her mind, manifesting themselves into nightmares. Alone in a big house, everything dark, shadows playfully dancing against the wall and the eerie sound that nighttime brought was enough to instil fear into any child.

It was 4 am when the door finally flung open and a drunken Helena came tumbling in. Laughter filled the air, loud noises echoed through the house as Helena and her new friends struggled to remain steady. All the sounds emanating within the house awoke Storm, drowsy yet alert, she listened in trying to put in place what all the commotion was about.

“May he burn in hell!” Helena pushed out with a laugh.

The pain in Helena's heart seeped through her laughter and into her words. Like an injured beast on the warpath Helena continued.

“I've arranged a cremation for the fool... No funeral or memorial! He does not deserve to be mourned!” Further spat the now furious Helena.

“That brat better take care of herself! Do you hear me?! I'm sick of your whiny face!” Helena called out one last time before turning to her friend, Where's my manners, would you like some wine?” A wicked grin spread across Helena's lips and a fresh burst of giggles filled the tension-thick air.

Storm sat shaking in her bed, her mother was willing to disgrace the memory of her father. She wanted to scream, to fight against her mother's ill intentions, but how? She was a kid and her mother was a toxic monster.

“How could someone who had claimed to love my father, be so full of hatred? The woman who brought me into this world treats me like absolute garbage like I took something away from her. I didn't make myself! Nor was I given any options... my father was a good man. He made his own choices in life and so did my mother! So why am I being held responsible for any of this? He deserves a funeral! The people who love him should be able to say their goodbyes.” Said Storm through tears of frustration and sadness.

Cradling her knees to her chest she silently wished it was her. She wished she had died at birth, maybe then her mother and father would still be happy. The cancer wouldn't have taken him away. Maybe then Storm wouldn't have to put up with her mother neglecting her and the hatred that followed. The thoughts ate at her, leaving Storm feeling worthless, an inconvenience to the world. Storm hadn't even begun to know the cruelty life could so freely offer, and yet she couldn't handle much more of this. The whole situation was just too much to be expected from a child and Storm was breaking under the weight of it all.

The slurs, laughing and loud crashes slowly faded until the silence felt deafening. Horrible thoughts kept Storm up, the dark sky had become light, the sounds of crickets replaced by chirpy birds. Hours had passed and Storm remained in the same position.

“I'm going for a jog, I'll be back in an hour!” Called out a voice in the distance.

Storm's ears perked up in attention. It wasn't just any voice though, it was Izzy's! Storm's eyes shot open as she bolted for the door. Passing by the living room, Storm's eyes fell on a very unpleasant sight, her mother lay on the floor, face down in her throw-up. Her makeup was a smeared mess, wine bottles scattered and glasses broken and scattered. A mysterious woman was on the couch in similar circumstances, but Storm didn't have time for this now. She was on a mission to get hold of Izzy. Storm burst through the front door and looked around, Izzy was already jogging and was 10 meters in front of her.

“IZZY!” Storm shouted.

No response, Storm took off in the same direction. As if her life depended on it, she ran as fast as she could. Luckily Izzy was just jogging, if Storm had to run any further she would certainly fail to catch up. Storm nearly dived to make contact with Izzy's hand, and as soon as the contact was made Izzy spun around in shock. They found themselves in the same fate as their first encounter. Tumbling over each other this time came with force, Storm did not have the time to slow down before Izzy's unexpected turn, and so she collided full force.

“What the... Storm?!” Izzy started as they both ended up on their backs on a nearby lawn.

“I'm so sorry!” Said the miserable Storm.

She had done it again, she couldn't do anything right, could she?

“What?” Shouted Izzy before realizing her earphones were still pumping music into her ears.

Shaking her head she took them out.

“Storm, what are you doing out here?” She softly asked.

Taking the young girls' appearance in. Storm's hair was wild, she was still in her pyjamas, eyes red and tired looking.

“What the hell is going on? She looks like she just got out of bed.” Izzy whispered to herself.

“I said I'm sorry.” Said a worried Storm.

Tears brimming her eyes, she watched as amber eyes darted over her from head to toe. Suddenly Storm realized why Izzy was looking at her funny, she was a mess! Why didn't she think this through? She hadn't even brushed her teeth, Storm was mortified.

“What's going on, Storm? Is everything ok?” Izzy asked again.

“I didn't think, I'm so sorry. I called out your name and I guess you didn't hear me, so I ran after you, well, because...” Storm's words drew silent.

Her mouth suddenly dry, she felt so stupid now.

“It's okay Storm, you can talk to me.” Izzy encouraged.

“Remember you said yesterday, if I even wanted to talk I know where to find you?” Storm's words were now in whispers.

Izzy moved in closer to hear the young girl properly, before answering.

“Yes I do, and I meant it.”

Storm looked into the blonde girl's eyes and sure enough, the sincerity was there.

“Yesterday when you hugged me, it made me feel so much better. I don't think I want to talk about why I look like this yet, but I did want to ask if you could hug me again. Saying out loud, I feel very foolish.” Admitted Storm.

Izzy giggled, which made Storm's head drop.

“I did say I looked forward to bumping into you again, didn't I? You certainly don't disappoint, kiddo. Come get your hug Storm, I don't mind in the least.” With that Izzy stood, inviting Storm in.

Storm giggled softly as she stood up, Izzy was still covered in grass due to them taking a tumble just moments ago. Filling the space between Izzy's arms, she was wrapped up in a blanket of love once more.

“Let's get you back home Missy, your parents are going to start wondering where you've disappeared to.” Said Izzy.

“I doubt my mother would even notice me being gone.” The words escaped Storm's lips as she exhaled.

“What? A clever young girl like yourself? I'm pretty sure she'd start a nationwide search, troops and all.” Came Izzy's response.

She did not want to press on the matter. This girl was fragile, emotionally speaking. Storm just stared at Izzy, she had no way of telling her older friend what her life had erupted into. Taking Storm's hand into her own, gently giving it a reassuring squeeze, Izzy continued.

“I don't know what your story is Storm, but generally it gets better in time. Most people have a story to tell, whether it be tragic or sad, inspirational or motivating. Sooner or later the story comes out. When I say it gets better in time, I don't mean that time magically heals. What I mean is that in time you learn how to deal, you start to understand what certain things mean to you, and you just see life differently. Perception plays a big role in life, you know the whole glass half empty/half full thing. The main thing is to be true to yourself and be brave. Even when you feel like the earth just wants to engulf you, stand tall. You are always stronger than you think, Storm.”

Again Storm just offered a meek smile, not fully understanding the blonde. It felt nice though, having someone care for you, about you enough to try and pull you to your feet. Storm didn't feel silly anymore, dashing down the street in her pyjamas this morning was the right decision. She didn't know why, but Izzy had her back. That in itself made the darkness in her soul feel lighter.

They were approaching home when Helena came out looking like a mad woman. Spotting Storm, her face scrunched up as she yelled.

“Storm Aria Haven! You get in here this instant!”

“I'm so sorry Izzy, thank you for the hug. It helped more than you can imagine.”

With that, the young girl's face fell flat as she turned and ran towards her mother.

Helena opened the front door and shoved Storm into the house, making Storm lose her footing and fall.

“You stupid brat! What are you doing out on the streets looking like that? You look ridiculous!” Helena spat down as she glared at her daughter.

“I hope you heard me this morning! There will be nothing held for your father or his backstabbing family! NOTHING! You're all worthless! The lot of you! He'll be in a jar by tomorrow and that will be the end of it! So go cry for your sweet father in your room on your own time!” The screaming continued from the ice queen that was Helena.

“But why..." Storm's words were cut off by a sharp kick to the gut.

“Did I say you could speak to me, you filthy child?! Now clean the house! It's a bloody mess just like you!” Were Helena's last words.

Storm curled into a ball clutching at her ribs, the pain was intense, and she felt her world spin. Trying to catch her breath as the air was kicked right out of her. Her lungs strained and her stomach twisted into a nauseous pit. White spots enveloped her vision, as tears flowed down her cheeks like hot lava scorching her delicate skin. A minute passed before Storm managed to suck air back into her lungs, leaving her head spiralling out of control, deprived of the oxygen it desperately needed. It felt as if an eternity had passed before Storm regained her senses. Kicked like a stray dog, filth. She meant nothing to her mother, Storm was sure of this now.