Monday morning came too quickly.
As I packed my lunch and snacks, my stomach fluttered with nerves.
Even while thinking through my lesson plan, I couldn’t shake the feeling.
I’d spent the weekend hidden away, safe in my apartment.
But now… I had to be brave.
I had no choice. He’d left me no choice.
I snapped the clips on my Tupperware shut, staring at my sandwich, grapes, and yoghurt.
As I dropped it into my bag, I started to justify my decision.
But the dread didn’t budge.
No.
I’d spent years not standing up for myself.
Officer Mercer had it coming.
?? ?? ??
It wasn’t until I was halfway to work that I saw him.
Behind me.
In his cruiser.
Following me.
At the red light, I peeked into the rear-view mirror.
He was calm.
Sipping his coffee like it was just another Monday.
The light turned green.
I drove—well within the speed limit.
When I finally pulled into the school car park and he didn’t follow me in, I exhaled—but only a little.
The rest of the day passed in a haze of glancing over my shoulder, checking the windows, and flinching at every unexpected sound.
Paranoia.
It was exhausting.
?? ?? ??
Okay.
I’d rehearsed it all weekend—even on my breaks.
I could do this.
