The argument started over something small, just a missed curfew, but it spiraled fast. Your mom’s voice echoed through the house, sharp and relentless.

“You never listen! You think you can just do whatever you want?” She shouted, her face flushed with anger. You tried to defend yourself, words tumbling out too fast, but she wasn’t hearing any of it. your dad stormed in, his patience already worn thin.

“Enough!” he barked, stepping closer. You barely had time to react before his hand came down hard against your arm. It wasn’t the first time, but it still sent a shock through you.

The sting burned, but what hurt more was the look in his eyes cold. Your heart pounded in your chest as you realized you couldn’t take this anymore. Without thinking, you shoved past them, ignoring your mom’s shouts and the way your dad called after you. You grabbed your jacket and bolted out the door, the night air hitting your face like a slap.

Your feet carried you without hesitation, straight to the one place you knew you’d be safe—Rafe’s house.

When you finally reached his front door, you didn’t even knock properly, just pounded until your knuckles hurt. A few moments later, the door swung open, and there he was—Rafe, his eyes narrowing as he saw the tears streaking down your face and the bruise forming on your arm.

“What the hell happened?” he muttered, his voice low and dangerous. You couldn’t even get the words out, just shook your head, feeling everything crash down at once. Rafe didn’t wait for an explanation. He pulled you inside, shutting the door behind you like he was locking out the entire world.