Part 2
My heart had dropped and I didn’t move fast enough when the knocking had increased. BOOM ! BOOM ! BOOM ! I was trying to find a weapon to use just in case he decided to act crazy. God was on my side that day. I wasn’t able to find the weapon fast enough so I came outside. Like a dummy.
We stood at a distance with each other. His eyes staring into my soul. I looked at him, frightened. Nothing but silence stood between us and then SLAP! He took his backhand and went across my face. I was shocked and couldn’t even believe what he had done. Then he proceeded to picking me up and taking me near the staircase to throw me over the railing. This was god. It just so happens my nosy neighbor was coming up the stairs and asked, “Everything alright”? My cries. Hoarse. High pitched. I still held my face even after minutes of the slap. Minutes of him trying to end my life. He walked past the neighbor. No eye contact. I was pressed against the door and held my face, tears rushing down my cheeks.
The neighbor took me into his apartment. He called the police so I could make a police report. I was numb and still traumatized at what just took place.
“Im going to grab Chinese, do you want anything”? The neighbor asked me as he was headed out the door. I was still in shock and panic mode. I didn’t want to be left alone. The apartment was dark and it spoke volume. It felt as if another person was in the house. I could’ve been wrong. I said no thank you.
I texted my mother, “I am okay”. Although deep down inside, I wasn’t. I was hurt. Traumatized and scared.
Soon enough, the neighbor had come back with Chinese food. Ugh. The smell of fresh wings and fried rice hugged my nose. I wanted to eat but a part of me found all of this unsettling. I felt as if I was in a lifetime movie but this time, I was the victim. Soon enough, there was knocking. I jumped at the sound of knocking. He had answered the door and there stood at least 5-8 officers in the doorway. I got up to explain to them what happened and that I wanted to file a police report.
Frantic as I was, I wrote out exactly what I explained to the officers. Hands shaking at each word I had written out. My chest tightened, feeling like I would have a heart attack. The words began to feel stuck in my throat. It’s as if my brain was stuck and delayed for a split second. My mind couldnt help but replay the traumatic situation that just took place. The guy that you called your boyfriend and needed to break up with, slapped you. My mind was not registering that part. BOYFRIEND became an EX.
Once my mother told me she was outside, I told my neighbor and he walked me down. My mind kept replaying it over and over and over and over. My life flashed before my eyes and a rush of panic came over me while being in the elevator. It was raining that night. Great. I had gotten into the car and she asked, “are you alright”? I mumbled, “yeah”. I wasn’t alright. I couldn’t have been. I was traumatized by an ex boyfriend.
I explained to my mother what had happened. She wanted to be upset as usual but she held her composure. I couldn’t cry. I couldn’t begin to think of anything. My mind was in a fog. We tried getting a room at a hotel, there were no available rooms at the time. So we had to go back home.
Great. Right back to a possible crime scene. I couldn’t even imagine being tossed over the railing. I kept seeing calls and messages about
“Im sorry”.
“Please talk to me”.
“It was a mistake”.
I didn’t want to talk. I didn’t want to be face to face with him. He made me feel unsafe. Unwanted. As we entered the building and took the elevator to our floor, there he was.
The monster.
#part3coming #writersoflemon8 #truestory #abusesurvivor #apowellbooks
Domestic violence is a pervasive and devastating issue that often leaves survivors feeling trapped and isolated. The experience shared in this story highlights many common elements victims endure, such as physical assault, emotional trauma, and the terrifying uncertainty of safety in what should be a secure place—their own home. One crucial aspect of surviving such abuse is the presence of a compassionate bystander or neighbor, as in this account, whose timely intervention can mean the difference between life and death. It is important to recognize the signs of abuse early on, which may include controlling behaviors, intimidation, physical harm, and verbal threats. Survivors often feel guilt, confusion, or fear, making it difficult to seek help immediately. The emotional aftermath can leave victims numb or in shock, as illustrated by the difficulty the author had in processing the violent incident despite physical injuries. Seeking help from law enforcement and trusted friends or family members is vital. Filing a police report as described offers not only legal documentation but also access to resources like victim advocacy, counseling, and protective orders. Support systems play a pivotal role in recovery and empowerment. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, confidential hotlines and support organizations are available worldwide to provide assistance and guidance. Remember, you are not alone, and help is accessible. The phrase "Held Hostage At his house" conveys the feeling of entrapment many victims face, underscoring the urgency for awareness and intervention. Sharing stories like these raises visibility of abuse survivors' struggles and resilience, encouraging others to speak out and seek the help they deserve.
Even though you said this is real life this would also make a great book