Anastasia

Fourteen

'My hands are still shaking.

I wish I could just erase the memories and feelings that came as he

I can't even write about it.

I wish I could've said no to my mother and stood on it. He wouldn't have been able to

No.

I'm grateful. It's over. He didn't get what he wanted.'

A chill ran down Anastasia's spine and she took a deep breath.

It was over by the grace of God.

'Austin,

He saved me.

I refuse to allow myself to think of what would've happened if he hadn't come in.

He comforted me.

I can't find the words to thank him.

I don't even know what to think.

He's amazing.

A good friend to me.

He means a lot to me, though he's only been here for a month and a couple of weeks.

He's shown himself to be nothing but genuine.

We thank God, is what he said.

He didn't take credit. He thanked God.

My heart is settled by his humility.

I'm grateful for his friendship and his delightful presence.

He cares. And he has no motives but to be Austin.

He is truly a gem.'

She closed her journal and laid back on her pillow.

It was over and Austin was good.

She could get some rest now.

"The lover you lost, did he love you right?"

The tiny hairs on her arms stood as she heard Bradley's words echoing.

Bile rose up her throat and she sobbed.

He was mocking her.

It was horrible.

She didn't even want to talk about Benjamin again. Not if his memories would be mocked and used to traumatize her.

She shook her head.

"No," She whispered brokenly.

His memories deserved to be honored and she would forever honor him.

-

Anastasia was working.

Life went on.

She was grateful for that fact.

If she had more time alone, she would've found herself in tears over Bradley's attempt.

She hoped and prayed that somehow her parents found out and did away with the horrific man, but somehow she knew it wasn't the case.