imagined life

(Ashley's POV)

I looked down and who I saw startled my heart. It was Nat. my heart raced against my chest and I could hear my heartbeat.

"I had an inkling feeling that you'd try to run again and I guess my suspicions weren't unfounded," Nat said, his eyes throwing daggers at me.

I shook my head, looking up at the sky in hopes of avoiding eye contact with Nat. "I am sorry, sir."

Nat scoffed and rolled his eyes. I gulped nervously and waited for him to start yelling at me again. "That's it? That's all you have to say?"

"I just don't like living like this," I said, in a whisper.

"Then how do you want to live, Ashley?!" he yelled, his voice filled with rage, causing me to lose my grip. I helped as I fell to the ground.

When I landed, Nat held my arm, keeping me from falling further into the bush.

"I don't know how! I'm terrified, Nat!" I cried out, feeling myself shaking slightly. This man has become so much more cruel. It scares me to know he is capable of doing whatever he pleases.

"I'm