Play Along

The officer’s eyes meet and then the other one interjects. “We have been over this a million times over the last week. We have video footage of you being taken against your will and put into the trunk of a car.”

“I wasn’t raped.”

“You have been brainwashed. It’s not unusual for victims to become attached to their attacker,” the officer soothes.

“I’m not… I’m not fucking brainwashed,” I stammer in frustration. “Listen to what I am saying. He didn’t touch me. He took me to save me from the other men. He helped me escape. I want him set free.”

The officer’s eyes hold mine.

“He isn’t even in the country anymore.”

“Where is he?”

“He has been extradited to the Columbian authorities and charged with your kidnapping and drug offenses.”

“It was on American soil. Why has he been extradited? I don’t understand why nobody is listening to me.”

“That is not your concern,” Todd snaps from the doorway.

I glare at him. For a week now he has been pretending we are something that we’re not and that I’m simply going crazy. What he doesn’t know is that day-by-day I am getting stronger, and as my strength builds, so does my hatred for him.

I haven’t forgotten what you did, asshole.

“We understand you are getting released next week,” the policeman replies.

I nod. “Yes.”

“You can’t be released out on your own. Where are you going to stay while you recover?”

“In my apartment.”

“You can’t. As the doctors and psychologists have told you numerous times, you are not well enough to look after yourself just yet. The doctors have instructed us that you are not of sane mind to be left alone and you are physically incapable of caring for yourself.” The policeman frowns. “Perhaps you should take the rehabilitation center option.”

“I’m going home and I know my options. You can’t keep me against my will.”

“I will be with her,” Todd replies.

“No, you won’t.”

“I’m looking after you whether you like it not.”

I roll my eyes. Fuck’s sake, why won’t anyone listen to me?

The policeman blows out a frustrated breath and shakes his head. He takes out his wallet and hands me a business card. “If you need me, just call.” I take the card and stare at it. My thoughts go back to the engagement ring specialist card that Stace had.

I was so happy then.

“The case has been closed from our end. I will not be in touch with you again unless you contact me.”

I nod as I stare at the card.

“Todd.” The policeman turns to him. “If you need our assistance, here is our card.” He hands him another card. “Here is the mental health crisis center line, in case you need it.” Todd nods as he takes the two cards. “I think I’m going to.”

This is bullshit. “I’m not a child. I’m not unstable,” I snap.

Todd’s eyes flicker to me. “Thank you, officers. I have it handled from here.”

The officers leave and Todd falls into the seat along side of me.