Page 17 of Drive Me Crazy

Once the table’s set, I wait by the counter for Weston to come down. Like every day before this, he's right on time as his steps echo around the house. I brace myself, not wanting to keep him any longer than need be.

"Good morning, Harper." His smile makes my skin crawl. "I won't be eating breakfast; I'm going on into the office."

"Have a wonderful day, darling." I return his smile with gritted teeth and a vile taste in my mouth.

He leans in, kissing me on the cheek. I'm sure he's avoiding my split and swollen lip. "You might want to call in today, your fall last night left some bruising."

"Yes, of course. I wanted to try some foundation before I made the call, but your decision is best." I force myself to keep my face relaxed and unwavering. I need him to leave and without suspicion.

"That's my girl." He taps the counter. "I'll order dinner in tonight; you take it easy and heal up. No more tripping."

"Sounds good, have a splendid day." I wait with anticipation as he walks toward the garage, listening closely for the telltale signs he's left.

I race to the front window, holding my breath as I peek out from behind the curtains. My nerves are tightly wound, not an unfamiliar feeling but different. I feel as though I'm riding on adrenaline instead of fear.

I dare not move until he fades into the distance. My eyes dart to the clock and back, I'm frozen with anticipation he might return. So, I continue to wait, praying he doesn't return.

An hour passes when I finally take a deep breath. With it, I spin on my heels and rush through the house, stripping as I go. My body protests every bend and move, but I can't allow it to hold me up.

I drop my clothes in the hamper and grab the ones from the linen closet; I stashed them there over a year ago. A hoodie and jogging pants from my college days, Weston ordered them to be thrown out, but I knew I could use them at the right time.

I hurry through his daily list, making sure I've done it all. My bones ache with every move I make, but I have to find my way through this. One last check over the house, I run to the bathroom to finish getting ready. "Everything needs to be perfect."

I don't even comb through my hair, wanting to avoid the bumps in it, gathering it up into a ponytail. I don't give a damn what I look like, I only need to make it through the day. After brushing my teeth, I yank my purse off the counter and hit the door in a dead heat.

Dragging my keys out, I jerk my door open and open the trunk at the same time. Tossing my bag in, I whirl around and pull the chord to the garage storage overhead. I scurry up the steps, spotting the box as soon as I'm up there.

I struggle to push another container to the side; I take the one I need down. I pop the lid and remove the Christmas ornaments from the top. My breath hitches as I lay on eyes on my backpack.

I yank it out, returning the other stuff and set everything back the way it was. With a steadying deep breath, I ease down the steps. Fear creeps up my back, sending chills over my body.

Once my feet hit the floor, I push the ladder back up and toss my backpack in the car. My Cruise might not seem like much, but today, I’m praying for jet power.

I slide behind the wheel, closing my door as I open the garage. I turn the key and my car starts, putting it in reverse, I back out slowly. I hesitate and take my phone from my purse; I switch it off and release the brake as my gut constricts with terror.

"Unbelievable! Fucking do it, Harper." My spirit screams at me to move, and I do. I whip the car out into the street and bury my foot on the gas pedal until it hits the floorboard. I have to keep telling myself not to look back or pause for long, giving no chance for anyone a chance to catch you.