Chapter 1: The beginning

Kate

It’s November 25th, I wake up from my nap and hesitate getting out of bed. It’s my 18th birthday, but to me, it’s just another day. I’ve never really liked my birthday; no one remembers it anyway. Getting out of bed, I check my calendar. The basketball game is tonight. I’ve only been to one game and left at halftime out of boredom. Personally, I would rather spend my time taking photographs and listening to music. Yet here I was getting dressed to go, why? A feeling is pulling me to go tonight. I have to go and see why.

Walking to my closet, I try on many outfits, not liking anything. I can never find any clothes to complement my curvy body type. Finally, I settled on some black fitted leggings and a light blue crop top that just showed the bottom of my stomach. I put on a black cropped jacket and boots. I threw my curly red hair into a bun and took one last look in the mirror. For the first time in forever, I looked pretty good. I walk out of my dorm, making sure to grab my keys before locking the door. I’m always locking my keys in my car or forgetting things. Driving to the game, I decide to park in the back. I got out and walked into the gym. Why am I here? This feeling in my chest is getting stronger. Was it just anxiety?

The bleachers are filled with people, and the music was so loud I could hardly think. Being A freshman in college, this is only my second time attending a game, and with no friends, I was definitely feeling out of place. I walk to the top of the bleachers and find a seat away from people. Before the game starts, cheerleaders and the dance team go on the court to put on a show. I don't know why they do this before each game, I guess to kill time? I watch as cheerleaders are being tossed in the air and flip down the court. The dance team is doing their thing, and everyone cheers. It was pretty good, and overall I enjoyed it.

Just as the game was about to start, I got the feeling I was being watched. I looked around but did not notice anyone. Although I couldn't shake the feeling of eyes on me. I decided I could not stay for the game, so I got up and walked out of the gym. It was just starting to get dark with a cool breeze in the air. Looking at my car, I regretted parking so far away. As I walked to my car, I noticed a group of guys standing by a tree. I didn't think twice about it; probably just came out for a smoke break. I made it to my car and dug in my pocket for my keys, but they weren't there.

Checking every pocket, but nothing. Had they fallen out in the gym? Had I locked them in the car? It wouldn't be the first time if I did, I was bad about that. I tried the door handle on the off chance I forgot to lock it. Of course, it’s locked. I looked inside and lay my head on the glass when I saw my keys sitting in the cupholder. Why today, of all days? I sat down on the curb, trying to think of what to do. I pulled it out and clicked the button to turn it on, but nothing happened. Of course, with my luck, it would be dead. Why does the universe hate me? Sitting on the ground, feeling defeated, I noticed that same feeling. I was being watched. I looked around and saw one guy left from the group by the tree.

Was he watching me? Was he following me? Probably just my anxiety, it gets worse in public, and with me locking my keys in my car with a dead phone, I’m surprised I haven't already had a panic attack. Well, only seeing one option, I start to walk over to him. As I get closer, I notice he is on the phone but hangs up quickly as I approach and looks at me. He is tall and muscular, wearing a casual t-shirt and jeans.

“Hi, I'm sorry to bother you,” I say softly after taking in his looks longer than I should have.

“It’s no problem at all. What can I help you with?” the stranger says

“Well, “This is kind of embarrassing, but I seem to have locked my keys in my car and my phone is dead.”

I pause for a second, looking down at the ground, before I continue.

“Could you help me get the door open?” I asked.

“Yeah, I think I can get it,” He says slowly with no emotion.

“Thank you so much, I’m really sorry for bothering you.”

“Trust me, it’s no problem. What is your name?” he asks.

“My name is Kate, but some people call me Katie. What is yours?”

“Sam.”

We get to my car, and he tries to pop the door. After a few attempts, he gets it open.

“Thank you so much, Sam, you are a lifesaver, really. I have some cash,” he cut me off.

“Oh, that's not necessary.”

We stand there, and it is getting kinda weird now. I turn to put my stuff in the car before turning back to him.

“I'd better get going, it is getting late.”

He looks down at my car, then back up at me, “You can’t leave.”

“Why not?” I say in a panicky voice.

“Your tire is flat,” he said in a creepy tone.

“What? It was fine when I walked in.”

“I’ll change it for you,” he says in a stern tone.

No, I can do it myself, thanks.” I state firmly, hoping he would get the hint and leave.

“Are you sure I could help? I don't mind.” He pushes.

“Yes, I'm sure. I got it from here. Thank you for your help.”

I wait to see him walk away before popping the truck. I start to get the jack out when I feel him grab me. Quickly, swinging my foot backwards, I hit him in the balls as hard as I could. As expected, he let me go and dropped to the ground. With my car's flat tire, I have no choice but to start running back to the school as fast as I can. I felt the collar on my jacket jerk backwards, making me fall, and I hit my head on the ground. Looking up, with hazy eyes, I see Sam.

“How the?” I was cut off by something hitting me in the face, then everything went black.