Look, I don’t have time for all of that “Dear Diary” crap right now. Well, I guess I just wrote it anyway. I thought I was too pissed.
Anyway, after I watched Fletcher walk down the street and out of my life, I was filled with a grief I’d never known. This couldn’t be the end of us, it just couldn’t. Then, within minutes, I was angry at him for giving up on us so quickly. Right after that, I was able to dry my eyes on my sleeve before realizing who was really to blame here.
Turning on my heel, I took the front steps two at a time and burst into the house already pointing a shaking finger at my twin sister.
“You!” was the only word I could manage to form, but in that single word, I was sure my point had gotten across because even I could hear the rage, heartache, and despair behind it.
Rosetta jumped backward, away from me, her face a tight mask of shock. “I didn’t think he’d – ”
But I cut her off. ” – Don’t even speak to me!”
Chris looked uncomfortable but if I thought he would shrink away from me, I was wrong. He is almost a cop, after all. “Look, Holden, I think it’s best if – ”
Of course, I ignored him. My entire focus was on the traitor in front of me. ” – You are a backstabbing bitch and the most pathetic excuse for a sister I’ve ever seen!”
I’m sure they wanted to say a few choice things right back to me, but I was done.
I had taken a shower at the studio before getting dressed in my street clothes, so I went straight up to my attic room and stripped down, pulling on a pair of lounge pants.
As I stared at this space I’d created for myself, I realized I wasn’t actually in the habit of sleeping here. I tended to spend my nights in the guest room even if Fletch wasn’t there because being in that bed, with his scent on the sheets and pillows… it made me feel close to him. It dawned on me that I may never have that feeling of connection again.
With unwanted tears filling my eyes again, I sank down to the floor in slow motion next to the unfamiliar bed. Maybe he would change his mind. Maybe he would cool off and come back to me.
I needlessly checked my phone. There was nothing from him. It didn’t surprise me, I had just hoped there would be a call or text. Was it too soon to contact him? Obviously, it was. I knew from past experience he would ignore my attempts for contact until he was ready.
Salty tears rolled down my cheeks and dripped off my chin as I pressed my eyelids shut. Fletcher may never want to talk to me again.
I’d been really quick to blame Rosetta but really, this was my fault. I never stuck up for him with her and he figured I never would. Because if I was going to, wouldn’t I have already?
Fletcher was right. When it came to my sister, I always shrugged off whatever she said or did as if it wasn’t important to me. Usually, it wasn’t important.
Fletcher was important. Now it was too late.
With some irritation, I heard footsteps lightly treading up to my room. Hadn’t I made it clear I wanted to be alone and away from them?
“Holden, I heard everything before you guys went outside. I’m really sorry,” Julie said from behind me.
I couldn’t bring myself to answer her. I could feel her kneeling down beside me and my back stiffened a little. Then I felt her warm hand on my back, just resting there. Pulling myself forward a bit, I shrugged her off. She got the message loud and clear and continued to kneel near me, but refrained from touching me.
She mentioned that Rosetta let her borrow some pajamas. All I could think was, who cares about pajamas? Later, I realized she was trying to make small talk because that’s what you do when you feel awkward. I was too despondent, though, to keep up.
I don’t know how long we silently sat there like that. It could have been hours.
In the wee hours of the morning after Julie left to check on Paisley, I finally pulled myself up and into my bed. I prayed in vain for sleep to overtake me and instead stared into the darkness until the room became lighter and lighter. Realizing it was useless to lie there, I dragged on some clothes and padded downstairs. With any luck, Rosetta wouldn’t be up yet.
As I entered the living room, I saw Julie and Paisley near the front door. I hadn’t often seen Julie with her hair down. It still looked damp from her shower.
“Are you leaving for the studio already?”
Hesitation was evident in her eyes which told me the answer to my question.
“You’re not going home, are you?”
Again, she hesitated to answer as she absently fiddled with the zipper tag on her sweater. “I’m going home,” she eventually said while averting her eyes.
Panic filled my chest, clenching my heart like a vise. “Are you crazy? You can’t go back there!”
“I don’t have a choice. You wouldn’t understand.”
“You’re right, I don’t understand at all! He hurt you and he’s bound to be even angrier now.”
“He’s angry, all right. He thinks I came straight here and slept with you.”
I shook my head, my hands curling into fists at my side. “Jules, he isn’t going to listen to any type of reasoning! He’s an irrational person! You can’t ever win with someone like that!”
The despondency I felt in my soul was apparent on her face. She had dark circles under her lifeless eyes and she let out a long, soft sigh. “He didn’t mean to. You don’t understand.” I continued to stare at her in disbelief, my words failing me. “Listen, Boo Bear, I know what I’m doing. I’ve been through this a lot.”
“Which is why it should end once and for all.”
She shook her head defiantly. “You may as well accept the fact that I’m not leaving my husband. I love him – I always have, since high school. I just need to be more careful that I don’t upset him or do something stupid.”
My vise-gripped heart began to sink, leaving a sickened feeling in my stomach. What could I do to stop this from happening?
“What about Paisley?” I asked. “What if he hurts her?”
“He won’t, he loves her.”
“He says he loves you, too, though!”
“Will you back off?” she demanded. “I’m so sick of hearing this. Why do you think I’ve never told you any details?”
Throwing my hands up, I was nearly yelling when I spoke. “I care about you! I love you as my best friend! I can’t stand to think you’re going to get beaten up and that you think you deserve it or something. This isn’t your fault he does this and you don’t deserve it! How many times do I need to tell you that before you believe me?”
“You don’t have a clue what you’re talking about. I’ve got to go.”
Short of physically blocking the door, I didn’t see how I would be able to stop her. I began to tremble again just like I had when Fletcher broke up with me. This was all too much.
With determination in her set jaw, she turned and scooped Paisley up, then left.
Rosetta chose that moment to sit down on the couch behind me. It wasn’t even eight o’clock and everything had already gone from pudding to poop real fast.
“Quit staring at me and sit down.” When I didn’t move, she added, “Please.”
Reluctantly, I sat next to her.
“Won’t you even look at me?” she asked.
Anger bubbled up in me again. Not because of the night before, but because her tone of voice tugged at my heart. No matter what happened, I would always have a special connection to her. She wasn’t just my sister, she was my twin, older than me by almost six minutes.
“Did mother ever tell you about our birth?”
I merely shrugged my shoulders.
“Of course you weren’t paying attention,” she scolded. “Great-grandpa Leo arranged with the bank for Father to wait in the vault in the basement. Then he talked a clerk into luring Mother down there as well.”
“And the alarms went off by some fluke, locking them inside the vault,” I said, turning toward her at last.
She smiled slightly, clearly satisfied with herself. “Yes, that’s right. And she went into labor. Father had to deliver us, the poor soul.”
That would have been pretty nerve-wracking. “That’s a great story but what does it have to do with right now?”
“Family is important, Holden. You are necessary for my well-being.”
“You’re pretty necessary, too.”
“Of course I am. However, you wish I wasn’t.”
I shrugged, not wanting to say anything cruel. Especially after what I said to her last night. “Are you apologizing for how you treated Fletcher?”
Her eyes grew wide with astonishment as if the thought of ever apologizing for anything never once went through her head before. “Is that what you want me to do?”
“OMG,” I groaned. “I shouldn’t have to tell you one way or the other. If you do something wrong, you should say you’re sorry. Like, I’m sorry for what I said last night.”
“Hmm…” she said as if deep in thought. “I am… touched by your contriteness. And I, too, am… contrite.”
Sighing, I said, “So you are…”
“Apologizing. I behaved appallingly.”
“At last,” I said, barely above a whisper.
But Rosetta was already changing gears. “Now! Where is dear Julie? We must advise her that she may stay as long as she likes.”
“She’s already gone.”
Her eyes narrowed as she regarded me. “Did she go back to that malefactor?”
I wanted to ask her what that meant. Instead, I just assumed it was something bad because how could it not be?
“Yes, she went back. I’m hoping, though, I can talk her into leaving him for good.”
“Well, let us hope so.”
I was feeling like crap after my all nighter but like the trouper I am, I went to the studio anyway. It’s not like I could call in sick. I’m committed. Things were not the same, however. When I arrived the only other dancer there was one of the principals, Ella Dean.
“What’s going on?” I asked Myung, the Dance Mistress.
I could see caution in her eyes and an almost unwillingness to look at me.
“Myung?”
“I’m not sure how to tell you this. Julie Graves resigned from the company this morning and does not intend on returning.”
I’m sure my jaw dropped.
“It’s okay, though, Holden,” Ella said, joining us. As every other time I see her, she looked me up and down, smiling unabashedly. “I’ve been wanting to try you out as a partner anyway.”
“W-what?”
“Ella, maybe this isn’t the best time,” Myung said, obviously reading the shock I knew must have been all over my face.
“Nonsense,” she said. “Everyone wants to dance with me at some point, why would he be any different? Besides, if it works out, he’ll be leaving the corps behind and become a principal.”
Myung smiled patiently while I picked my jaw up off the floor again.
“Ella, I think I’d like to speak to Holden alone for a few minutes.”
“Fine,” she answered, leaving us.
“Have a seat, Holden.” She didn’t continue until I’d done as she said. “What’s troubling you? I mean besides learning about Julie quitting and Ella’s obnoxious display?”
Did I really want to get into this with her? I had to talk to someone and I was out of people at home.
“Holden?”
“Well, umm, at home, things have gone all Lord of the Flies.”
“I see!” she exclaimed. “Do you need a day?”
“Do I ever, but how can we manage that? If I’m being partnered with Ella, I have a lot of new choreography to learn.”
“Yes, but you also need the correct mask and costume, too.” She began flipping through her appointment book.
“Tell you what, go see our masseuse to work some of that stress out and go home. I’ll arrange everything here.”
“Do you mean it?”
“Yes, I mean it. I need you in tip-top shape for what’s coming up, so it’s important to me that you take care of yourself. Take a mental health day and be back here on Monday.”
I think I smiled for the first time in the past few days.
She walked me to the locker room door and gave me a reassuring hug.
“Okay, now go.”
As soon as I got home, I called Julie but I wasn’t prepared for what happened.
“Hello?”
“Hi, Jules. Myung told me you quit – ”
” – How dare you call me after what you’ve done!”
“What?”
“How could you call Child Protective Services on me! They’re investigating me for supposedly not protecting my child from my abusive husband! I can’t believe you would do this to me!”
“But I – ”
” – But nothing! I never want to hear from you again!”
And with that, the call ended.
Author’s Note: The survey has ended and I really appreciate everyone who participated. Every single one, whether it was nice or more critical, was very helpful. So, thank you. While the specific comments provided are confidential, I will be able to tell you results of some of the other areas very soon.
As always, thank you for reading,
Discover more from Kymber@booomcha.com
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Oh gosh! Things have gone from bad to worse. I wonder who called CPS on Julie. At first, I was thinking it might be Fletcher, but he doesn’t seem to have a clue as to what really happened. I bet it was Rosetta because she knows what went down. But then, it could be Chris because as a cop, I think he’d be a mandated reporter. I can see why somebody might call, but it’s not a good situation and not really the best solution.
Myung was super kind to Holden. I have to give her props. And I wonder what’s going to happen with Ella and how well they will work together. Also, let’s hope things get better for Holden very soon. The poor guy has had a tough break, and it’s still early on in his generation.
I bet you know now who called CPS on Julie. LOL I love how you reasoned out who it could’ve been. We definitely know it wasn’t Holden. He was totally blindsided by this development.
Holden really did have some tough breaks, didn’t he? I’m so mean.
Yep, yep, CPS has already bee figured out now since I’m totally caught up. Yeah, ,Holden was totally blindsided by that one. You could have bowled the poor guy over with a feather.
LMAO!!!! Yeah, you are mean, but so am I. 😀 To me, it’s not a good story unless you beat up on your characters at least a little. Me, I tend to beat mine up a LOT. LOOLOL!!!
I reckon we have that in common! haha 😀
Of course she went back… It would have been to easy to stay with Holden until things clear up, and that’s what beaten women usually do, feeling guilty and hoping for a change… I just hope she won’t get any trouble with the social services! Who called? My mind swings between Rosetta and maybe Fletcher… And this new partnership might turn out for the best, at least temporarily!
Thank you 🙂 You’re right in that many battered women return to the situation. Those are good guesses regarding who called CPS. It very well could have been either of them.
Indeed that’s hard to convince a married woman to escape from her abusive husband.
It was a good intention to call the children protection to inspect Julie’s family even though Julie is a good mom.
Yes, I agree with you there. Whoever called CPS probably did the right thing in this situation.
To be honest, I cheered a bit when Holden turned on Rosetta. I mean, it’s not her fault entirely, but she needs to learn the consequences of her attitude. Her apology didn’t seem very apologetic though. Like Carys said, it’s just her nature, but one that can sure be irritating and sometimes downright hurtful to others around her.
I feel so bad about Julie’s situation, but I’m not surprised that she went back, which is very sad. I really wonder who called the CPS, my first thought was Rosetta. I am crossing my fingers that Julie and Paisley will be able to escape Brent’s horrible control.
Great chapter <3
Thank you, Lila. 🙂 You’re right that Holden and Fletcher’s breakup wasn’t the fault of Rosetta alone, yet there was something very satisfying about seeing Holden finally let her have it.
As for Julie, we can hope for a happy ending with her, but chances are she will not find it easy to break away from Brent.
Unfortunately it’s not really surprising that Julie went back to her husband. 🙁 Holden really needs to learn more about abusive situations if he wants to help Julie, because he just doesn’t understand it at all. He needs to change his approach, if it’s not too late for her to listen to him.
Rosetta… apologizing?! Although I must agree with twinsimskeletons that it was rather lackluster and she didn’t seem to get it. But at least she showed a bit of compassion for Holden’s hurt.
It’s really good that someone like Myung is working for the company, since a lot of the others are so cutthroat! I must admit I’m in love with Ella’s freckles, though.
I’m guessing on Rosetta. She’d be the type to do the technically right thing while maybe not grasping the emotional gravity of the situation. If this really does help Paisley, it would be worth it. I don’t think the husband would have called because it just makes him look bad.
Thank you, Heather. 🙂 What you say is definitely true. Holden does need to get educated if he’s ever to truly help Julie.
I think Rosetta absolutely loves her brother and in doing so, comes across as overbearing. She made a lackluster effort, it’s true. I think that’s all he can get right now out of her.
I really love Ella’s freckles, too. Too bad she’s only cute on the outside. lol 😛
I really like Myung and I think that’s the type of person who can get respect while mentoring the company.
What you say about Rosetta and how she doesn’t grasp the emotional weight of the situation is a very good way to put it. I think you understand her a lot. 🙂
Hmmm, my two theories of who called the Child protection services is either the husband who did it on anon, so that Jules would cut Holden out of her life (she says he loves the child but who knows), or Rosetta because she was trying to be helpful.
I have to say I was annoyed at Holden for accepting Rosetta’s very lackluster apology! She doesn’t really seem to understand WHY he was angry, she just eventually said sorry when he pressed her and dropped it. I get that it’s who she is, and Holden isn’t going to keep pressing her for something better, but he does let her walk over him sometimes and it irritates me! She just has that nature, though. She takes what she wants.
Thank you so much 🙂 Oh, yes, those are definitely good hypothesizing there.
Holden accepting Rosetta’s pseudo-apology was lame, it’s true. I think he settled for that because he figured it was all he’d ever get. He’s really too easy on her, I think.
You’ve got their relationship down pat, I think. 😀
Oooh! You are so sneaky! I wasnt expecting that at all! To be honest, I would have called CPS too. Not to get too personal here, but my mother is in an abusive relationship (among many other things) and the first thing I did was go to court over my baby sister. You can’t control what an adult does, but the moment there’s a child who can’t make their own decisions involved, the stakes become much higher.
I hope Julie gets away from her husband, and fast.
Thank you, and I’m very glad you told me that about you. You’ve been through rough time and I hope you’re finally over the worst. <3 Honestly, I don’t think calling CPS was a bad thing. Paisley definitely doesn’t need this in her life. I hope Julie gets away from Brent, too.
I love Chris’ face in that second pic! It says so much.
“Hmm…” she said as if deep in thought. “I am… touched by your contriteness. And I, too, am… contrite.”
For some reason this reminds me of Eliza lol.
Ella is bad news, but she sure is beautiful.
Myung is a great boss.
Oh no! I bet Chris called.
Thank you so much, Jes2G 🙂 I was so lucky to get that shot of Chris. When I saw his face, I hit pause really fast and got in there with the camera. Oh my goodness! You’re right, Rosetta did sound kind of Eliza-ish just then.
I think you’re right about Ella. Hopefully, Holden is still uncomfortable around him. He found her a bit off-putting when he met her. And that’s saying something if you remember how he is in the game. haha
I really like Myung and I think she will be a great mentor of sorts.
Oh, you thinks Chris, eh? You will find out soon!
That does say a lot about her LOL
Yes, indeedy-do. 😀
lol
What a silly thing I said. LOL I was mighty tired when I answered you.
Oh you were toast LOL
Yes, this is true! hahaha
Holden, you are breaking my heart! Fletch, come baaaack! 💔😭
Wow, I feel so bad for Julie. She could be the face for domestic violence blaming herself like that. There is no excuse, NONE, for him to lay his hands on her. I hope she gets herself out of this situation if not for her sake, then for Paisley’s. There are so many possibilities of who could have called CPS. Her husband might have as a way to control Julie, threatening her with the loss of her daughter. Or Rosetta, though I’m not entirely sure it’s her. And of course there is Chris, the future cop. He very well could have made the call. I guess we will find out eventually! 😉
I’m sad the way things turned out for Holden. I hope Ella keeps her hands to herself. That’s Fletcher’s man, okay? No touchy!
Great chapter, Kymber! 😊
Thank you so much <3 I’m sorry I’m only getting your wonderful comment now. I was my sister’s BBQ with the kids and everyone for Memorial Day. 😀
Yes, I’m crying for Fletcher, too. Holden is definitely shaken. Maybe they’ll see each other again one day. They both live in town so it’s not out of the question that they wouldn’t run into each other. They probably have some mutual friends, too. Awkward.
Julie is really in a tough situation and I think Holden needs to educate himself and see if he can help her; if she will let him, that is. I think everyone you mentioned could have done it, for sure. I’m not sure when the reveal will be but it’s soon.
I agree with what you said about Ella! Hands off! 😀
WHAAT!! OH wow .. he would NOT do anything to hurt her. I agree that I think it is her hubby trying to manipulate her!
Thank you, Lisa <3 You are right that Holden would not have done that. I think if anything were to occur to him, he would probably try talking to her again. Brent is definitely a good suspect, I’d say. 😀
I have to say, I’m stuck between Rosetta and Ella as for who might have called CPS. Although really anyone could’ve overheard something about Julie’s situation and done it! Guess I’ll just have to wait to find out. Honestly, Holden can’t blame the breakup on any one person. Yes, Rosetta didn’t like Fletcher, but she isn’t the sole cause of why Fletcher left. Poor Holden must be overwhelmed with all the different sticky situations he’s involved in now. You’ve done a good job of portraying the victim’s side of an abusive relationship, that “if I just do everything right, nothing bad will happen” mentality. It breaks my heart that Julie keeps going back to her husband, but I totally understand why. I’ve been in that situation in the past. Actually, I remember looking at a list of signs of domestic abuse and being disturbed by how many my boyfriend at the time fit, and what did I do? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I was convinced that I loved him and that he loved me. Thankfully now I’m out of that relationship, have the most loving, caring boyfriend in the world, and have the purple domestic violence awareness ribbon pinned to my bedroom wall. Thank you so much for writing about this! <3
Oh my goodness, what you must have been through. I’m so glad you’re out of that situation and I’m also glad you know the signs to look for now. You know, I had a similar experience. When I got my first nursing job in a hospital, during orientation, they went through the domestic violence wheel with us so we could identify these signs in our patients or patients’ families since we’re mandated reporters. While they were going through it, I was able to circle things from every single category in the situation I was in. You know what I did about it? Nothing! I dismissed it, thinking my situation was different somehow. But it was different, it was pretty textbook, actually. We are strong, Raymond, and we’re survivors. God bless you.
As for the story part of your comment… Rosetta and Ella are good candidates, I’d say. You’re right that Holden is overwhelmed. I think he’s had a pretty charmed life until now. lol
I’m so sorry that you had to go through that. But it’s in the past now for both of us, and we’re both at better points of our lives! I’m so glad that you got out as well <3
Thank you. What you’ve said in these comments is a great encouragement. <3
I think after this, Holden MIGHT reconsider that ‘no drinking’ policy of his. I know I freaking would. Woo, what a chapter! I don’t even know what to think. I expected Julie would most likely do something like this. Abuse victims rarely ever leave. However, I was NOT expecting child services to be brought into the picture! I do wonder who did that. As we all know, it was most certainly not Holden. I’m hoping with all my might it wasn’t Rosetta. I feel like that would be something she’d do, but I don’t want her to have done that. I honestly don’t blame her at all for the Fletcher thing. That was just a whole bunch of bad variables in one pot, not just her. She could have tried a little harder to like him, but yeah. Not her fault. If anything, it’s just Fletcher’s own fragile psyche. He can’t help it anymore than Holden can help his connection to his sister!
Thank you, Rosie <3 Right?! LOL! We can all be assured it wasn’t Holden. I don’t think CPS crossed his mind because he’s really been thrown for a loop and uneducated about domestic violence. So far, the names that have been brought up are Rosetta, Fletcher, Ella and even Brent himself. Each one of them certainly could have done it. I like what you said about Rosetta in that she saw a lot of bad variables. To her, Holden is the most precious person in her life and she can’t stand that Fletcher did the things he did to him in the past. You’re right, she could have tried harder to get along with him, though. Unfortunately, Fletcher didn’t trust Holden and Holden didn’t tell him what was going on with Julie. The miscommunications abound. lol
I think it was the husband who called CPS. Even Rosetta isn’t dumb enough to do it. The guy though? He’d stoop to something like that.
Ella seems like the opposite of someone people should want to partner with.
Thank you, Violincat <3 LOL I love how you think! You’re very right to add Brent’s name to the growing list of suspects. 🙂 You’re most likely right about Ella. Perhaps, she’s very insecure. 😀
Wow, I wonder who called CPS. I don’t think Chris would, unless Rosetta told him to (he seems to only do whatever she tells him to do). Or, Rosetta did it herself. Either way, it probably wasn’t the best way to handle the situation.
I am happy that the dance company was nice and understanding with Holden. Especially since he isn’t one of their principal dancers.
I am also happy that he made up with Rosetta (sort of). The apology on her end seemed a bit forced. She seemed unconcerned about Fletcher, and didn’t really fully understand how hurt Holden was. She seems out of touch with her emotions (in other words she is perfect for politics LOL).
And I am excited to see the results of the survey. 🙂
Thank you so much. <3 I was kind of bummed because I always look forward to your comments and I didn’t see one. Then, I found it in my spam folder. lol I’m so glad I found you! 😀
Chris, eh? 😀 So far, the list made up by readers includes Chris, Rosetta, Fletcher, Ella, and Brent himself. You will find out pretty soon who made the call, but I don’t have the exact time worked out yet.
I think Myung is really nice even if she seemed tough during that first session with the new dancers. She wants him to be there dancing all the way, so she knew he needed time to pull it together. lol
I laughed so hard when you reasoned Rosetta was perfect for politics because she’s so out of touch with her emotions! hahahaha That was good. And so, so true. You’re right in that she doesn’t really understand how devastated her brother is. Hopefully, she’ll get in touch someday. lol
YAY! Everyone was so helpful, I really appreciate it. <3 I’ll let you know ASAP. 😀
That is weird that my comment ended up in spam. I wonder why that is. Crazy.
I am still wondering who could have made that call. After being your avid reader for so long I have learned to always expect the unexpected. Maybe it was another ghost from the Era of Violence. Do Rosetta & Holden have any ancient artifacts laying around?
That was weird but I’m glad I found it. lol You’re so funny 😀 A ghost! Maybe you should write this story because I like your idea! 😀 😀
I am flattered, but I am no where nearly as talented as you are. 🙂
I wouldn’t be able to do these characters justice. But if you ever need help, someone to bounce ideas off of, I’m here.
Thank you so much! It’s always good to bounce ideas off other people. 😀 <3
Like what they all said, WOW! Great story. It will be good to see Holden grow even further. I only hope Julie will be fine, but victims seldom have the strength to get out on their own. The sad thing is they often wait until someone is seriously harmed.
The question victims need to learn to ask themselves is, “what message am I sending my children if I stay in such a relationship?” Am I teaching them that it’s okay to be beaten or spoken to abusively? Whether boys or girls, each of them will/could learn a very negative behavior, either as the perpetrator or victim.
Something that isn’t addressed here but that I’ve seen is women or men who bait their partner to the point that they lose control. I saw this in my mother with my already abusive nature father. It was like someone poking the lion in a cage. Both people who stay in this type of relationship need some serious help.
Thank you, Jolie <3 I’m so glad you like the story. I will admit, it’s been fun to write so far and the words have been jumping right onto the paper. haha I hope Julie will be fine, too. You’re right about domestic violence victims and how hard it is getting out. Actually, the most dangerous time for the abused person is when they are leaving.
I totally agree with your assessment of what the victims need to ask themselves. I think if I had asked myself that, I would have found a way to leave sooner than I did.
Oh goodness, that is such a good point. There are some people who bait the other even though they know that person has a violent tendency. I agree that both sides of the equation need serious help.
We suffered as children but as an adult, my first husband raised his hand to me only once. I endured it as a child but in no way shape or form would I as an adult. Instead of cowering, I stomped my foot and got in his face and yelled, “Don’t you dare!” He immediately backed down and apologized. It surprised even me.
I’m so proud of you for putting your foot down and making that decision that you would never go through it again. <3
That chapter was fully loaded!! Holden has had so many blows all at once, I’m starting to fear for his state of mind. I tend to think it was Fletcher who made the call on Julie, although I certainly hope not if there is to be any reconciliation in the future. Wow, so many twists are possible, I am glad it’s you guiding this story, and not me!! I don’t like Ella – she’s either truly a b-word, or more insecure than she wants anyone to know. Either way, Holden sure as heck doesn’t need any more drama in his life right now! Great chapter, and I can’t wait for the next one!! ♥
Thank you, Marj <3 Holden really has had a lot of blows. I wonder how these tests of his character and personality will work out? Fletcher is certainly in the list of suspects, I agree. You’ll find out soon, although I don’t know exactly when.
This story so far has been a lot of fun to guide. Sometimes, I think though that someone else would be a better storyteller. LOL 😀
Ella is a piece of work, it’s true. She’s very arrogant and too sure of herself. I’m afraid that’s not going to change much. It could be a cover for insecurity, as you cleverly mentioned.
You’re definitely right that Holden does not need even another ounce of drama in his life. Maybe he needs a vacation instead. hahaha
It might be useful for Holden to talk with his mom about this . Also , I really feel that friends in these situations need support and guidance. We don’t automatically know how to best help , and asking “Why don’t you leave? ” seems not to help, generally .
Thank you, CT <3 You know, that is an excellent idea. Since Holden’s read the diary, he would know what his mother once faced. I agree about what is helpful and not helpful in a situation like this. Leaving isn’t always a cut and dry type of thing and outsiders don’t always understand.
What?! Who could have done that? My bet is on Rosetta OR Fletcher. He never liked Julie could have his revenge this way..! But speaking of that call: on one hand it’s cruel, but on the other hand… Julie is in a weird position right now and could unintentionally harm her daughter by being so blind to her husband’s flaws… I don’t know – it’s a very tricky situation there!
Ella is so beautiful, but she strikes me as arrogant and full of herself… I wonder how her and Holden are going to match (professionally or not)!
That was great, can’t wait to see what’s next! 😀 <3
Thank you so much. <3 You know, both Rosetta and Fletcher are not bad guesses. You’ll know in the near future, although, I’m not sure exactly where the reveal will be yet. I think the same way you do in that it was a sneaky thing to do, but also a way to protect the child. Very tricky indeed.
I think Ella is pretty, too, but her personality so far leaves much to be desired. Wait until the next chapter! hahaha Oops, no spoilers, though! 😀
I get why Rosetta irritates Holden. She can’t always interfere in his life, although, surely, she was not the only factor in Fletcher leaving. It was for the better, though. Maybe the boys will come back to one another at some point, but they’re not ready for it to work out now. It all looks like he’ll end up with Jules anyway (it’s funny to say this, because that’s the nickname I use in reference to my sister, Julia). Those shoes Rosetta wears, though! Would you look a that! Funny to see her so stylish when, even though dancers, both Holden and Julie have rather sporty style of clothes.
Holden definitely needed that break he was provided with. Shaking my head at Ella. And who called the services? Was it Rosetta? If she tried to help, then she only made it worse. Again.
It must be hard for you to write it all in your story. You are very brave, Kym, and I’m so glad you’re much better now <3
Thank you, Jowita. <3 Rosetta irritates him to the core, I think, but you’re right that she was not the only factor in Fletcher’s leaving. Holden and Julie’s relationship was a problem for him, too.
You call your sister Jules? I always loved that nickname, tbh. I’ve wanted to use it since the beginning of my story. lol
Rosetta has become quite stylish since pursuing her political career, it’s true. I always try to make her look fashionable but with some class because she is aiming to please her future constituents. I’ll get into more of what she’s doing with the first chapter of The Inheritance. I’ve been working on it but it’s not quite ready yet.
Ella is a piece of work, is she not? lol That’s a good question about who called CPS. We’ll find out soon but I’m not exactly sure of the exact time yet.
Thank you for your kind comment and encouragement. I’ve gotten good at compartmentalizing this issue so it is easier to write. I don’t know if that makes sense, but it’s how it is working out. 😀 Life is awesome. <3
Yes, I do! I usually pronounce it like in English, but sometimes I go with the Polish pronunciation – that would be Youlaes. I think it is a lovely nickname, too!
Can’t wait for that Inheritance chapter when you’re done with it. Rosetta really looks stylish! And she has beautiful, long hair.
I’m so glad that life is good for you now, Friend ♥
Youlaes would sound very cool, I’m sure! I love it when you tell me about your language.
I can’t wait to get the chapter out. At first, I wanted to get a feel for where Holden’s story was going, if it was working out well or not. Sometimes my plots don’t work as I imagined they would once I write them out. lol Then, I began working on The Inheritance and I just want it all to be right. So, very soon, I promise! 😀
This Wed., there will be an interview with Eddiesims published. <3
I got chills at the end….did his sister do that? This is terrible…Or maybe Ella…surely her own husband didn’t try to get her in trouble…that wouldn’t make sense. But someone that knew and I think it may have been Ella…she seems too full of herself.
Hopefully it will at least get some attention on the fact that he is abusing her….so it may work out good in the long run. Poor thing..
Thank you, Audrey! <3 Ooooh, chills! How neat! You’ll find out in the future who called CPS, although, I’m not exactly sure when since there is a lot coming up for these characters. Ella or Rosetta are reasonable guesses, that’s for sure.
It would be good if the attention she gets would help her make a decision to leave Brent.
Oh… oh no. I wonder who actually called CPS on Julie, because we know it wasn’t actually Holden. Hopefully not Rosetta… I mean, I kind of see why someone would call, as there’s a serious need for help in Julie’s household. Still… not the best. It’s good that Holden and Rosetta made up, so I don’t want something like that to get between them.
Myung was very nice to Holden, though I can’t say the same for Ella… still, it’s interesting to see how well they work together.
So much drama in this gen already, and we’re only four chapters in! I’m so ready for more, though 🙂 This was great! <3
Thank you, Louise. <3 I’m not sure when exactly it will be revealed who called CPS, but there will be a reveal of sorts in the future. In a way, it’s understandable someone may call because of the child being involved. On the other hand, this was a bit sneaky of whomever did it.
Myung is pretty nice. I think at first she wanted the dancers to know and understand who was in charge. But they’re all professionals, so there’s no reason for her to be a difficult person in the long run.
Yes, can you believe the drama? Some of these things happened in game and so I included them. It the the story that much more intense. lol