My Next Door Neighbor

Chapter 19

I woke up the next day to a note on my bed.

Happy birthday little cuz, follow the notes for your surprise.

So, I did what the note said and followed the notes. Each was by a different cousin, Aunt Claire, and even Bridget. So I had 5 notes, not including the first one. As soon as I made my way down to the living room I smiled as one final note laid on the table.

Go outside.

Following its directions I opened the front door and there, with all my closest friends and family, was a sleek silver brand new car. My eyes widened in surprise as I ran out to greet them. I pulled everyone in for a hug, thanking them repeatedly.

"Hold on, I have a present for you." Bridget smiled and produced a package with bright colored rapping. When I opened the box my eyes filled with tears of joy as I saw the picture frame of me and her. It was when we were hanging out one weekend at the park. I looked up at, pulling her tiny frame to hug me.

"It's perfect." I smiled through the tears of joy.

Just then my stomach rumbled causing an embarrassing blush to form on my cheeks.

"Looks like the birthday girl is hungry!" Aunt Claire said, clapping her hands together. "Bridget, mind helping me out with a special breakfast?"

Bridget nodded and followed my aunt inside.

"So, you ready for the party tonight?" Steven asked, doing a little dance when he said 'party'.

I had completely forgotten about the party. My mind had been to focused on what Mr. Hunt said. "Yeah...can't wait." I forced a smile. AlreadyMr. Hunt was ruining my day and he wasn't even here.

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Breakfast consisted of waffles, my favorite, and bacon with chocolate milk. Needless to say I ate about 3 waffles and I lost count on the strips of bacon I consumed. When breakfast was over Aunt Claire and the rest of the group cleaned up while they insisted I get ready for the day.

I walked up to my room and looked out my window. Carter's was closed and dark, like no one was home. Which was probably correct seeing as Howie held his son captive, blackmailing me. I balled my fists and closed my window and before I could think about any else I ran to the bathroom to take a shower. Shower's always relaxed me, put my mind at ease. It was as if everything would be alright when I got out.

I finished my shower and got changed into jeans, a red flowy shirt, and my converse. I was just finishing up combing my tangled hair when a knock sounded on my door. I opened it up and there stood a confused Wayne.

"This is for you. From some guy named....Howie?" He handed my an envelope and my eyes widened.

"Thanks." I quickly slammed the door and locked it. Sitting against the door I opened it up.

My sweet Cassidy,

I have finally found your place of hiding. Now, don't fear my dear, just know that the stakes are higher now than ever before. You better meet me at our spot tonight. Don't be late.

Oh, and happy birthday.

Howie Hunt.

I dropped the note beside me and put my head in my hands. I can't believe it. My decision has been made, I have to go now. I have to save Carter, Bridget, and the little family I have left.

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That night BrIdget helped me into my new dress. She straightened my hair, and did my makeup perfectly to accent my eyes. I didn't have the heart to tell her that I wouldn't be at my own party I hoped that through all the partying, I could slip out. Even on my birthday I was still unnoticed by many.

After everyone sang 'Happy Birthday' to me and we had cake and ice cream I looked at the clock. I had 15 minutes left. So, I excused myself to the bathroom. Heading upstairs I walked into my room, locked the door, and began my decent out the window Before I got there, however I saw a small box sitting on Carter's windowsill. It was so small I wouldn't have been able to recognize it from my room. Grabbing it I saw my name scrawled out on the top. Opening it up a heart shaped rose gold necklace sat there. The letter C was carved into it in diamonds. I smiled and picked it up, looking at the back where words were engraved.

Forever and Always

I smiled, tears brimming my eyes. Clasping it around my neck I hurried down the street where I had secretly parked my car earlier. I got in and drove off towards my destination. I turned my phone off so no one would bother and I wouldn't have anyone tracking me down. Stupid, I know, but I couldn't risk it.

As soon as I arrived at the place, a large warehouse looking building, I parked my car around back and got out. I was right on time.  The night sky made the place look scarier than it already was and I questioned what I really got myself into.

"Ahhh, the beauty has come. Good choice my darling." Howie's voice rang out. Someone grabbed my arm causing me to jump and let out a squeal of fright. I looked to see one of those familiar goons. A gun was tucked in its holster around his belt causing me to gulp.

"Follow me." Howie's short self protruded from the shadows and led me down a hallway and into a room. I followed, trying to calm my nerves a bit, but it was hard.

I walked in and was surprised that it looked like a bedroom. It was neat and clean, no sign that anyone had touched the place.

"Make yourself at home. Nathan will be here to see you soon." An evil smile formed on the old man's face. I had a bad feeling about this.

I sat on the bed for what felt like hours, but it was only a few minutes. The ticking of the clock on the wall opposite of me as driving me insane. So, I pulled it off the wall, smashed it on the ground, and took my spot back on the bed. Soon enough, though, the door entered. 

In walked a boy who I assumed was Nathan. He had short brown hair that was styled in a quiff, dark brown eyes, a strong build, and was quite tall. Overall he was fairly attractive. Maybe being with him won't be so bad.

I was wrong.

"Lay down  you slut." He ordered, a hungry look in his eyes. He closed the door and proceeded to pull of his shirt. Eh, not as great as Carter's. As he got closer my eyes widened  and I scooted as far from him as possible. 

"Oh no you don't." He grabbed my arm roughly and pulled me to him, smelling my hair. This guy was wack. 

With that he started to kiss me everywhere. I squirmed around as he did so. When he finally got to the zipper on my dress I pushed him back.

"Let me see Carter first." I said. "Then we can continue. I want to  know he's okay." 

Nate groaned and tried to kiss me again, but I shoved him back. 

"Fine." He pulled out a cellphone and called his father. A few minutes later the same guy who brought me in here was holding a beaten and bloody looking Carter. The boy looked absolutely done. His hair was matted in blood, his eyes were black, his lip was cut, and he was hunched over so I assumed something else was wrong. I ran to the boy and held him tight.

"You're alive." I cried into his torn and dirty shirt, but I didn't care.

"Hey...Princess." He spoke. I knew it hurt for him to do so, so I pulled away and showed him the necklace.

"Thank's for the present." I whispered, smiling. He nodded and forced a smile through the pain.

"Alright, get away from him!" I was yanked back by my hair. I noticed Carter's jaw clench at the sight. 

"I'll make you a deal." I hurried out. 

ALRIGHT!!!! ANOTHER CHAPTER! SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG I WAS OUT VISITING FAMILY THIS WEEKEND AND WITH SCHOOL STARTING BACK UP AND HOMEWORK I'VE BEEN REALLY BUSY. BUT HERE IS ANOTHER CHAPTER. I HOPE YOU ENJOYED IT AND PLEASE DONT FORGET TO COMMENT AND VOTE!