Time has almost completely run out for me. They are so close to finding me. Every noise I hear makes me jump in fear thinking they have found me. They want to take me away from here, away from Ashley and send me back to hell to him. Who are they? They are the police and FBI that are now searching the country for me. I need to come forward and tell my story soon before it’s too late.

Everyone has painted him as a victim, a man who has lost his daughter. No one sees him for what he truly his. A monster. Turning a TV on means seeing his face and hearing his voice on every channel. I cannot believe the coverage they are giving him to find me. Pictures of his congregations hanging flyers and stuff fill the TV when he is not present. They all are looking for me but what they don’t realize is I don’t want to be found.

Nancy has still not appeared on the TV. I am worried about her. He could have killed her already or maybe he has beaten her so badly that she is unable to show her face without questions being asked.

My bruises on the other hand are fading fast. It’s strange not getting backhanded or smacked everyday; however, it is something I could get used to pretty fast.

Ashley has stayed with me every night in my room since that first time she woke me up from my nightmare. Her arms wrap around me to protect me and keep the bad dreams away. Sleep has never come as easy as it does when she’s with me.

The love and safety that she has given me without question has made me strong. I need her, and I haven’t needed anyone since my family died.

Stirring from behind me brakes my train of thought, Ashley is finally waking up.

"Spence?" Her sleep-filled voice invades my silence. "Are you awake?"

"Yeah, I was just thinking about things."

"Tell me" Rolling over, I’m met with beautiful brown eyes filled with so many questions about my past. "Tell me about the first time" Her soft fingers gently glide over my cheek and into my hair brushing it out of my face.