The Night
The night was cold, dark, and damp. Each wall rose into the night sky, casting shadows all around creating total darkness. The rain started to slowly sprinkle down like glitter falling from the sky; only it wasn’t full of happiness, just obscurity and gloom. Sirens bounced between the walls as the chaos of everyday life continued around me. It was cold enough that each breath from my lips would turn into a visible cloud of air. Tonight will be worse than the previous. Mia shriveled up into a ball to keep in as much warmth as possible. Slowly she began to become drowsy as everything crept into an icy layer. Her mind started replaying flashbacks from weeks ago and her head began to spin. Mia struggled to stay within her new reality, it became hard to tell the difference as shadow-like images of Karl danced around her. Tears swelled in her eyes as she couldn’t hold them back any longer. Unpleasant memories surfaced of the terrors Shes been going through. Each breath in was like a strike to the chest. Mia lifted her shirt looking at the massive dark bruise Surrounding her pale skin on her upper torso. Mia winced in pain as she put her shirt back down. She quickly covered her mouth as someone had just walked past the alleyway. Shit, shit, shit. Her mind raced. Could it be him? was he here to take her back and punish her more? Mia pushed herself back behind the dumpster trying to conceal herself from view. In an effort to scoot out of site, she kicked into a tin can that echoed through the alley.
“Hello?” A voice called out into the alley. “Is someone there?”
Please... please just go away... Mia clenched her teeth holding back the pain from the abrupt movement she had just made.
“I heard someone in pain,” the voice crept closer, “are you OK?” The voice wouldn’t let up. Something about it sounded so familiar to Mia. It was comforting to her. You know this voice, she thought, you can trust this voice.
Footsteps echoed down the alleyway growing closer to her. Mia could make out the outline of the figure coming down the alleyway. Just as they took another step closer, a small overhead light flickered on. It was the very light Mia was hoping would work days ago to give her some comfort. As Mia stared into the light, the figure was able to see her face as it was illuminated by the overhead light.
“Mia?” The voice filled with disbelief.
Mia gasped as her eyes widened when he stepped into the light revealing his identity. He had medium-long brownish hair with a blonde tint to it slick back neatly. A well-kept beard outlined his lower jaw and covered his chin. He had broad shoulders and easily over 6” as he towered over Mia.
“Ji-Jimothy?” Mia rubbed her eyes as if she was dreaming. It had been 4 years since she had seen him, and at least 3 years since she last spoke to him.
“What... why are you out here? What is going on?” Jimothy questioned stepping closer. “It’s below 0 out here. You’re going to freeze to death.”
Mia jolted away pushing herself against the wall. “Please...” She pleaded, “please don’t.”
Jimothy stopped mid step, kneeled down and stayed a foot away. He scanned her up and down. Mia’s hair was long but knotted up and dirty with debris. Her sweater was thin and caked in what he hoped was dirt as well as the joggers she was wearing. “Here,” Jimothy said slowly extending a hand towards her as low to the ground as possible. “Let’s get you out of the cold, OK?”. Mia looked at his hand then at the makeshift cardboard box tent in the corner.
“I... I don’t know. I’m pretty busy right now.” She stumbled over her words anxiously.
“It’s me, Mia.” He replied warmly. “It’s just me.”
Mia hesitated still, she didn’t want to be seen like this. Think of something you dummy she thought. “It’s been a rough.... experiment.” She faked a smile. “I’m doing research.... for... a new book!” Jimothy furrowed his brow looking at her with disbelief. “Uh-huh...”
Annoyed now Mia squinted her eyes at him. “What do you mean, ’uh-huh’. You don’t believe me?”
Jimothy shook his head, “Not at all. You’re a terrible liar and you always have been.” He moved closer, “Looks more like you’re ‘studying’ the art of being homeless and beaten the fucked up.” A harsh tone of disgust filled his voice. How could someone do this to her? “Please, Mia.” He now pleaded holding his hand back out, “Let me help you.”
Mia frowned and stared at his open hand as if it was a foreign object. “You.. You don’t under--” All of a sudden a voice she knew all too well echoed nearby, “MIA! COME OUT NOW.”
Mia took in a sharp breath in. Her fight or flight kicked in at the sound of voice with panic filling her whole body. Jimothy could see the terror radiating off of her, she wasn’t shaking because of the cold. Help me her eyes pleaded looking into his. Jimothy had been her best friend before Karl estranged her from everyone and everything. Jimothy was someone she trusted wholeheartedly, could she still trust him? The panic made it hard for her to think. Hesitation and hopelessness filled her. Karl had broken her mentally and physically filling her with doubt and self-loathing. She felt extremely unworthy of anything and everything.
Jimothy could tell something was up. Instead of questiong her, he scooped her hands into his and gave a soft, comforting smile. His eyes said it all: Follow me, you’ll be fine. I promise. Jimothy pulled off his trench coat wrapping it around Mia shoulders. Her body twitched away for a second before she shook it off and put it on. Her eyes met his and she could see the pain and sadness in them with a hint of anger with his clenched tight jaw. Mia could tell what he was thinking, that she wasn’t the same Mia he knew. The Mia who was full of life, full of unconditional love, and would smile for no apparent reason brightening up any room. The goofy Mia who laughed at the silliest jokes and would occasionally snort at them, too. Tears swelled her eyes and she quickly choked them back, now was not the time. Jimothy stood beside her, his arm gently on her back leading her out of the alley.
“Hey buddy,” Karl hiccupped, completely shit faced and unphased by bumping into Jimothy. “Have you seen a little brown-haired bitch about yay high” Karl waved his hand up and down from his chin to his stomach a few times.
Jimothy sized him up and clenched his jaw, “I’ve seen many of bitches, you’d have to be more specific.” His body covered the majority of Mia as she was tucked behind him.
Karl drunkenly blinks at Jimothy before turning to Mia and waving his hand. “What about you, huh?”
Mia was frozen solid, she dared not utter a single word. All she could do was stand there. Jimothy ignored him and nudged Mia to the sidewalk.
“I asked yo-” Karl raised his voice reaching out to grab Mia.
Jimothy caught Karl’s arm before he could even touch the arm of the coat. “That wouldn’t be a very smart move on your part, ‘buddy’...” He growled with a forced smile. Mia could feel the tensity of rage coursing through his body but somehow, he kept his cool and stayed collected.
For a mere second, Karl twitched with fear as Jimothy let go of his arm. Karl stared for a moment, attempting to size Jimothy up wondering if he could take him on. Just as Karl was about to walk away, a semi-truck sped past revealing Mia’s side profile to Karl. “Thought you could get away from me, you dumb fucking whore?” Karl snarled in anger as he reached back out and yanked at the trench coat grabbing ahold of Mia’s arm. Karl tightened his grip pulling her towards him.
Jimothy quickly reacted grabbing Karl by the throat. “Let. Her. Go.”
Karl choked out a laugh, too drunk to realize the danger he was now in and spat at Jimothy. “Fuck you, pal.”
Jimothy’s eyes darkened as he lifted Karl up with ease. “Now.”
Fear filled Karl’s eyes, but for some reason Karl wouldn’t let her go.
Jimothy snaps into action and slams Karl against the wall breaking his grasp of Mia. Jimothy grabs Karls’ wrist, twisting Karl around smashing his face into the wall now. With a swift movement Jimothy snapped Karl’s arm. Karl cried out in pain begging Jimothy to let him go. Jimothy dropped him to the ground and moved over to Mia. She was still frozen, but her face stunned. Jimothy gently nudged her with his hand between her shoulders. “Let’s get you out of here.” Mia nodded and regained feeling in her legs as they moved towards a black parked car on the side of the street. Jimothy opened the door, looking back to see Karl wrestling around the ground in pain. He guided Mia in and closed the door before making it over to the driver side.
Mia’s eyes stared vacantly at the car’s dashboard. Her mind 1000 miles away as she heavily disassociated from reality. The purr of the engine was the only audible noise between them. Jimothy would shift gears and glance over at Mia from time to time. He wanted to bring her comfort but didn’t know exactly how to go about it. No words would do any justice at this point in time. To break the silence, Jimothy switched on some music at a low volume. He tried to remain as cool and collected as possible. Showing the rage that swelled deep inside him would only scare Mia. He needed to protect her.
“Mia,” He pauses looking over at her, “is there anywhere I can take you? Anywhere you’d like to go?”
Mia shook her head no, still vacantly staring at the dash.
“What about your Parent’s place? Don’t they live only an hour away?” He continued.
“They died.” she replied in a monotone voice.
“Oh.” he exhaled.
“I tried the women’s shelter on Main. The Gospel on 4th. It was all full. I ended up in the alleyway because I’ve pushed everyone away. I figured Ka... that HE wouldn’t find me there.” Mia covered her face with her hands, curling up as much as she could in the passenger seat. She attempted to hold back all her emotions and tears. Muffled sobs came through her fingers. Jimothy reached his right arm over and gently runs his fingers along the back of Mia’s hair. Mia tried to stop crying, but the flood gates opened as soon as she felt his touch. Her body vibrated and heaved with her sobs. After a few minutes she fell silent and had passed out. Without fully realizing it, Jimothy had driven them towards his home. After twisty roads and dozens of trees, Jimothy’s house could be seen on the horizon. The driveway and top of the home were illuminated by the moon. Jimothy pulled into the garage and switched the car off. He ran his fingers one last time through Mia’s hair and nudged her awake. He exited the vehicle and made his way to the passenger door. Mia had returned to staring at the dash in front of her.
“Let’s get you inside, M.” He said gently, “I’m going to carry you in, OK?” He leaned down and scooped her up as Mia nodded her head yes. Mia’s body began to quiver, but eyes were still distant. He held her close and worked his way over to the entry door. With a wiggle of a hand, he was able to get the door open and inside his place.
Jimothy carried Mia into the master bathroom, gently setting her down on the cushioned bench along the wall. He looked down at her with a slight frown, let out a slow breath, and brushed her bangs out of her face and cupped her chin tilting it up. “I am going to start the shower so we can wash you off.” Her face was vacant, heavily disassociating from everything around her, but she gave a quick nod.
He gave an encouraging smile then stepped away to go into the shower to turn it on. The squeaks of the metal knobs brought Mia back into reality. Her eyes darted around the room regaining her bearings. I am in his...bathroom? She thought looking over at the shower entry. Steam began to make its way out of the shower entry and out came Jimothy. “The shower is ready, Mia. Would you like me to help?” he asked sincerely, offering his hand. She nodded, taking his hand and stood up. He rolled up his sleeves and led her into the shower. Mia stepped under the shower head letting the water rain down on her. Within seconds she became drenched as her clothes could no longer soak up the water. Jimothy gently placed his hand on her shoulder, “Is it OK if I remove your outer clothes?” Mia nodded, lifting up her arms. Jimothy grabbed the bottom of her shirt and pulled it over her head. He tossed it into the corner of the shower and kneeled down and removed her pants as she used his shoulder to stabilize herself foot by foot. Jimothy grabbed the loofah and lathered it in body wash. “I guess you’ll get to smell like me,” He softly chuckled as it was the only body wash available. He worked head to toe gently lathering Mia up and rinsing her. He grabbed the shampoo and kneaded her hair twice just to get it clean. He finished with a round of conditioner and left to grab a towel. Mia removed her under garments and wrapped her arms around her chest letting the hot shower ground her back into reality.
Jimothy wandered back in with the towel holding it up just enough to block most of her body but her face from his vision. Mia blushed grabbing at the towel, “this is nothing you haven’t seen before,” she mumbled sheepishly. Jimothy shrugged, his eyes looking at the shower tiles “True, but still.” He gestured towards the shower exit “Would you like to finish off with a soak? I started the bath if you do.”
Mia nodded again and with a small corner of her lips she gave a slight smile. He wrapped her up with the towel and turned off the shower. He took her hand and led her over to the bathtub that took up an entire corner of the room. Layers of bubbles filled the tub. “I put Epson salt and some bubble bath mixture into the water for you.” He said turning away, “I still remember how you love your bubble baths...” he paused grabbing the door frame of the bathroom. “I am going to go grab you a change of clothes. I will be right back.”
Mia dropped the towel and submerged herself in the large bathtub. It was big enough to fit 2 and a half people easily. She took a sharp inhale and let it out slowly. Her head spun with what if’s of earlier. She began to panic as her breathing quickened. A hand touched her shoulder, and she gasped, pulling away. Her eyes darted up and she let out a sigh of relief. “Sorry,” She whispered nearly inaudible.
“No, no.” Jimothy shook his head, “You have no reason to be sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you.” He got down onto his knees to meet her eye level. “You were starting to have a panic attack.”
Mia Frowned, “My head was not being very nice to me.” Her hands covered her face as she sighed heavily breathing through her fingers. “I can’t even begin to think of what would’ve happened if you weren’t there.”
Jimothy leaned in and wrapped his arms around her shoulders tucking her head between his neck and shoulder. “I know it is easier said than done but try not to think about it.” He gave a comforting squeeze, “I got you, you’re safe now.”
Mia nuzzled her face into his neck and let out a quivering sigh. “I’ve missed you” she murmured taking his scent in. She wrapped her arms around him pulling Jimothy closer to her. His undershirt soaked in the bubbles as she pressed herself into him. Her hands glided between his shoulder blades trickling her fingers down his spine. Her lips pressed against his neck in small pecks as her hands worked their way up and down his back. There has always been a tension between them since the day they met. Timing hadn’t been on their side over the years. Communication on Mia’s side had dwindled as Karl had her push away everyone from her life.
Jimothy let out a shaky breath before pulling away. His hands grasped her upper arms and trailed down to her hands, holding them firmly.
Tears filled Mia’s eyes as she met his gaze, her cheeks burned bright red. Mortified, she lowered her head turning away from him. Jimothy cupped her face into his hand bringing her attention back to him. She nuzzled her cheek into his hand welcoming the comfort. Mia took a deep breath in and slowly let it out. His hand slipped under her chin and tilted her face up. He pressed his forehead against hers and let out a slow breath. Mia leaned up, guiding her fingers up the side of his face and into hair. She pressed her lips onto his and tugged gently at his hair. He returned her kiss pulling her against him. Her lips were so gentle and soft. Her kiss was so tender yet full of tension and passion. Jimothy could feel himself giving in to her touch. How he yearned to feel those lips of hers for years. They have always looked so kissable, and they very much were.
Jimothy pulled back with a small chuckle, “Mia.” He paused, her eyes steadily staring at him. Her cheeks burned bright red again.
“I’m sorry,” she frowned “I just...”
“Hey,” he smiled, “I’ve always wanted to know what your lips tasted like. But...”
“But...?” She grimaced.
“But you’ve been through a lot and need to rest.” He stood up holding out his hand, “OK?”
Mia sighed, nodded in agreement and took his hand. “As always.... you are always right.” He could feel her eyes rolling and smiled.
Jimothy helped her out of the tub and grabbed the towel. His eyes couldn’t help but look over her pale bruised body. She was covered in bruises, marks, and scars. The majority of them were in places easy to conceal. Karl knew exactly where to hurt her and not get caught. Anger flashed through his eyes as he clenched his jaw. How could someone do something so horrible to her? She had to undergo a rough and traumatizing childhood. Now this? Jimothy regained his composure before Mia could see his anger. That is not what she needs to see or to be around. Mia could feel his gaze on her as she wrapped the towel around herself.
“The clothes are on the bench, please help yourself and take your time. I’ll be right outside if you need anything.” He said excusing himself.
Mia walked over to the bench. There were different articles of clothing to choose from. He laid out a pair of sweats, gym shorts, boxers, a tank top, a long-sleeved button up and a T-shirt. Out of habit, Mia reached for the sweats and long-sleeve shirt but stopped herself. She doesn’t need to hide here. She always has been one to run hot but had to stay covered up. Mia slipped on the boxers and tank top and headed out of the bathroom into the master bedroom. Jimothy was not in the room. A large king sized bed was centered against the back wall. There was a desk with a computer, two shelves with various books and games, and a projector that aimed at a blank white wall. The bedroom door was wide open so Mia went to find where Jimothy had gone. She peered out into the hallway. About 8 or so feet down to the left was another open door with the light up. Mia made her way down the hallway towards the open door. The walls were lined with framed posters with different movies or video game maps. Mia approached the room and gently knocked on the door to alert him of her presence. Jimothy was preparing the bed in the room. It appeared to be a guest bedroom.
“What are you doing?” Mia said looking around the room.
“Getting the guest bedroom ready for you,” He said placing a big comforter on the bed. “I haven’t had anyone over in a while, so it wasn’t made.”
“I...” Mia hesitated biting the inside of her cheek. She didn’t want to be alone. She always had a hard time sleeping alone.
Jimothy stopped. He recalled a memory from years ago of Mia saying she hates being alone and would have night terrors when she was. She had asked him to watch her sleep many years ago over webcam so she would feel safe and not have nightmares. He happily accepted the request and spent most nights just watching her sleep and listen to her sleep talk while he played his computer game.
Mia stood silently. She didn’t know the right words to use without sounding desperate. Jimothy folded his arms with a small curl of his lips, “I’ll take a wild guess and assume you’d like to stay in my bed?”
Mia blushed and started playing with a strand of hair. “Maybe...” She mumbled turning away from him and heading back out the door. Jimothy turned off the bedroom light and closed the door behind him. He followed her back into the master bedroom where Mia sat herself down on the edge of the bed.
“Are you hungry, thirsty or need anything?” Jimothy asked before making his way over to the closet.
“No,” she shook her head, “I think I’m more exhausted than anything else.”
Jimothy submerged from the closet and had changed out of his damp clothes into a pair of sweats. He came over to the bed and gestured for Mia to lay down. She complied, got under the covers and laid her head down on a pillow. She appeared to look more at ease now, but still alert and ready for someone to jump out of nowhere.
Jimothy stood by the edge of the bed “If you need anything I’ll b--” Mia grabbed his hand frantically, her eyes wide. The mere thought of being left alone terrified her and sent her into a panic.
“You’re not leaving me all alone here, right?” She breathed in and out quickly.
“I was just going to clean up the bathroom and be in my office to finish up some work before going to bed,” He paused gazing into her blue eyes, “but I guess that can wait.” he smiled encouragingly. Making his way around to the other side of the bed. Jimothy turned off the light, got under the covers, and laid on his side facing Mia’s direction. Mia scooted closer and snuggled into the comforter. Jimothy gave her a kiss on the forehead and moved a strand of hair off her face tucking it behind her ear.
“Promise you’ll be here all night?” She asked anxiously.
“Promise. Now try and sleep. I’ll watch over you for a bit, OK?” He replied giving her arm a gentle squeeze.
Mia nodded grabbing his hand into hers and closed her eyes. Within a minute she was out cold. Jimothy furrowed his brows. She looked so fragile like glass ready to break. She was too kind, too sweet to be in this position. The anger came back in a flash but Jimothy had to stop and take a breath. He knew if he acted now it would be rash and violent. He needed to go at her pace, but not too slow or else that bastard would get away with it. He sighed giving her hand one more gentle squeeze before turning onto his back. Mia wiggled her way over to him, her arm on his chest and her leg propping itself over his. He looked down at her, she was doing this in her sleep. He pulled her into him and put his arm under her head. She snuggled more into him letting out a soft sigh of relief. He rested his head against hers and gently played with her hair until falling asleep.
