"I just need to get away from here," I begged Melissa the moment he left the room. I can not stay here any longer. This man reminded me of what was between us, the impending relationship between us, and the threat that connected me with him without my wishes.
"We will. But you are not in a position to travel now, Isabella. Sweetheart, you are too hurt." Melissa spoke her words full of regret and sadness. I empathized with her and I understood where she was coming from. I reached out, holding her hand in mine as she settled beside me, me hugging her sideways as she played with my hair. We were silent. We had that kind of friendship where silence was comfortable and easy, like breathing. When we relaxed, it meant just enjoying the company of each other. She was my first friend of mine, the
