Chapter 2

It has been 2 weeks since the accident and Tessa still dont have a full recollection of that faithfull night. She remembers the lights comibg straight to them, her father swerving sharp and then darkness.

While she is lost in thought she tries to pack what is left of her life. A few items the hospital supplied. A small bag to go into the big world all alone.

Her hands stilled after she closed the bag fighting against the tears, but after a few seconds she gave in to the full emotions she suppressed the whole time she was confined to this room. She still had the cast but all her other injuries healed surprisingly fast.

Suddenly a voice startled her and she looked up quickly. It was dr O'Ryan standing in the door holding a big envelope.

"Tessa? Are you alright?"

Corncern flood though his voice, sympathy show in his eyes. She choose to ignore it and wipe away her tears, straightening her back and gives him a small smile

"Yes. I was just thinking about what lies in my future. I have never been alone."

David O'Ryan smiled. He had grown fond of this small girl. Given time and circumstances she came into his life at the wrong time. He just lost his lovely wife, the pain is still too much but he will forever remember this seemingly fragile girl. Small built, strawberry blond. Hair. Fine and beautiful facial features. But she is surprisingly strong, she just doesn't know how strong she is yet. She will take the world head on and move mountains once she discovers her inner strength.

"I wanted to say goodbye before you leave and give you this." He held up the envelope.

Tessa raised an eyebrow looking at it. It probably is the hospital bill. Her heart started to race with the thought of starting her new life in debt.

"What is it?" She asked David with a worried look on her face

"I dont know. It was delivered here this morning adressed to you." David walk closer to her and gave her the envolope. Curious about the content but knew it had nothing to do with him. Her bill was paid in full by someone anonymous. Meaning that she wasn't as alone as she shought

Tessa started to open the envolope slowly. Afraid of what the content may be. As she pulled out a letter and started to read she gasped. Tears started to fill her eyes.

My dearest daughter

If you are reading this it means your father and I are no longer with you to protect you. You are now on your own. Also know that our demise wont ever be just an accident or of natural causes. You will never be safe until you meet your other half. The one truly meant just for you. He will always protect you. I know everything seems confusing at this moment but you will find clarity when the time is right.

I have someone looking out for you from behind the scenes. You will never have to worry about money. There is enough for you to live on for two life times. Dont ever get a job. It will make it easier to find you. Live in the shadows. Don't draw any attention to yourself and keep moving every few months. You will know where your end destination is.

We love you my babygirl. We may not be there to keep you safe anymore but tried to make sure you have everthing you will ever need. Just call Len McIntyre and say just the word panther and your location. He will help you. He is the only person you can trust

Inside the envelope is everything you will need to start your journey. Trust your instincts and your inner voice. It will warn you if there is danger amongst you.

Please be carefull

With all our love

Mom & Dad

Tessa sat there silently. Confused by the letter. It is apparent that her parents had big secrets. But still she knows nothing at all. Why couldn't they just tell her what to look for? My inner voice? What are the talking about?

She looked in the envelope and found her ID, passport and a bank card and a cellphone.

She looked up and saw David looking at her curiously abd shook her head remembering to trust no one. She need to leave and never look back even if it pains her to leave the only normal and constant she knew the past few weeks behind. She will always cherish David as a dear friend. Maybe one day she will be able to thank him for everything. One day when she won't have to run from the unknown.

She stood up abruptly, avoiding David's gaze, grabbing the crutches and wobbled past him

"I'm sorry I have to go" she disappeared out of the room heading to the exit.

David tries to stop her but she ignores his calls. Worry and sadness filled his heart. 'what was in that letter that caused that reaction' he asked himself.

At the door she nodded at the orderly slightly. Stopped a taxi and asked for the nearest bus station. She will get snacks there and fill up with necessities in the next town.

At the bus station Tessa asked for a ticket to next small town. Not caring where it is she just have to leave. Luckily she was just in time to get a ticket to

Astoria, Colorado. She never heard of this place. Hell she never heard of any of the previous places they lived in so what does it matter. It is an overnight trip so she made herself comfortable for the long drive hoping to be able to sleep a bit. Her thoughts are running away with all the uncertainties. As the wheels started to turn she fell into a dreamless sleep. Heading to the unknown