POV: Allison

The dim lighting of the lounge wrapped around us like a comforting blanket, the hum of laughter and clinking glasses creating a warm atmosphere. I was grateful for this moment, this escape, but my mind kept drifting back to Mom's attitude towards me and how she had looked at me with anger and disgust.

Ray had not stopped saying nice things to me since we got into the car. He's been so touchy and passionate, whispering sweet nothings to me. He hasn't touched me or rewarded me like he promised, but he's been paying attention to my feelings more than before. My mind keeps going back to Mom's...