Petal lay motionless in her bed, clutching the sheets as the nightmare began to unravel around her.

In her dream, her hands trembled uncontrollably, fumbling as dread tightened in her chest. She could feel it—he was coming. Her heartbeat thundered, echoing in her ears, each beat reminding her of his approach. She pressed both palms to her chest, desperately trying to calm herself, but her pulse only raced faster. Eyes squeezed shut, she whispered silent prayers. But then, the door burst open with a force that rattled the walls.

She turned, her breath catching as she saw him standing in the doorway, his gaze fixed on her, burning with a fury that chilled her to the bone. She felt tears slipping down her cheeks, powerless to stop them as he strode into the room, his movements sharp and unrelenting. The door slammed shut behind him, and she flinched, the sound echoing in the room.

Petal took a hesitant step forward, mouth dry, trying to find her voice. But before she could speak, he lunged at the dresser beside him, sweeping everything onto the floor in one violent motion. The crash was thunderous, sending glass and pieces scattering across the room. She stumbled back, hands flying to her ears, trying to block out the piercing noise as he continued his rampage.

His eyes were wild, darting around the room as if searching for more to destroy. Each movement was erratic, unpredictable. He grabbed a vase and threw it against the wall, shards exploding in all directions. A lamp met the same fate, shattering with a sickening sound that made her stomach twist. He was muttering under his breath, words she couldn't understand, his tone dark and simmering with rage.

Petal tried to inch closer, to reach out to him, but the moment she took a step, he grabbed another object and hurled it right in front of her. She jumped back, her heart slamming painfully in her chest as he glared, daring her to come closer. The look in his eyes was enough to freeze her in place. She wanted to help, to stop him, but every attempt was met with another thrown object, another crash that sent her reeling.

Finally, she mustered the courage to approach him, her voice shaky. "Please, stop..."

But he turned to her  and without warning, shoved her back with such force that she stumbled and fell hard to the floor. Pain shot through her, but she barely felt it over the raw fear coursing through her.

“Please,” she whispered, head bowed, feeling utterly defeated, her voice breaking as she spoke.

His footsteps approached, slow and deliberate, each one sending a jolt of terror through her. He crouched in front of her . She braced herself, expecting the sting of his hand, squeezing her eyes shut as she raised her arms defensively. But instead, she heard the sound of a slap—only, it wasn’t aimed at her. She opened her eyes, horrified, as he began slapping himself, his gaze never leaving hers.

He struck his face with relentless force, over and over, his skin reddening with each hit, his expression twisted in pain and fury. Her chest tightened as she watched, unable to move, unable to breathe.

"No," she whimpered, reaching out instinctively, desperate to stop him.

But he didn’t blink, didn’t hesitate, his hands moving faster, harder, the impact echoing in the room. His face grew redder, his breathing harsh. She lunged forward, grabbing his wrists, but he wrenched free, his strength overpowering her completely. She felt helpless, weak.

“Stop!” she cried, her voice breaking as she clung to his wrists, finally managing to hold them still, pressing them into her lap. “Please, forgive me!” Her words spilled out in a desperate plea, her hands trembling as she held him.

And suddenly, she woke up, gasping for air. She sat up in bed, her heart still racing, her hands still shaking. Running her fingers through her hair, she hugged her knees, feeling the residual terror gripping her. A tear slipped down her cheek, her chest heaving as she tried to calm her pounding heart.

Petal glanced at the clock: 2 a.m. She

knew sleep wouldn't come again, not

after what she had just experienced.

Pushing the sheets aside, she walked

Over to the window and gazed out at the

quiet night. The mnoon hung high,

casting a soft glow over the stars, but

her mind kept drifting back to the

nightmare, replaying each haunting

detail.

....

A soft voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Petal?"

She turned and saw Chase standing at

her door, concern etched on his face.

"What happened? Why aren't you

sleeping?" he asked as he stepped into

the room.

"It's just.." She trailed off, unable to put

it into words. Her head dropped, a

weight pressing on her chest.

Chase set down the water bottle he had

been holding, placing it on the table

before moving toward her. Gently, he

took her hands in his, his warmth a stark

contrast to the cold lingering from the

nightmare.

"Did he hurt you again?" he asked, guilt

shadowing his expression.

"No, he hurt himself" she whispered, a

tear slipping down her cheek. She

looked up at him, her face full of worry.

"I... I did something. I was begging him

for forgiveness. He was so angry, but

instead of hurting me, he started hitting

himself." Her voice cracked as she broke

down.

Chase pulled her into a comforting

embrace, his hand running soothingly

along her back. "Shhh... it's okay, Petal,"

he murmured, holding her close.

"But why?" she sobbed into his shoulder.

"Why was I asking for forgiveness?

Why?"

"Shh.." he whispered again, continuing

to stroke her back as she shivered in his

arms, her breaths slowly steadying with

his presence.

After a few momnents, she pulled back,

calming down a little, her eyes

searching his face, seeking answers or

Comfort that he could somehow

provide.

......

Chase's copycat stood hidden in the shadows, just near the old tree by Chase's house, his eyes narrowed as he took in the sight of the grand property before him. A smirk twisted on his lips as he muttered, "You’ve done well for yourself, haven’t you, Chase? Gotten pretty rich.” His gaze lingered on the large windows, the well-kept garden, the shimmering lights.

"Wouldn’t hurt to share some of that luxury, would it?" he murmured. "Instead of tossing some in my face like I'm some beggar."

The copycat stood in the shadows outside Chase’s house, his eyes narrowed as he peered up at one of the upstairs windows.  Chase was there, and he wasn’t alone—a girl was with him, her figure faintly visible under the porch lights. The copycat's eyes widened slightly, his interest piqued.

“Chase…” he whispered to himself, voice dripping with suspicion. “What’s he doing at this hour? And with a girl, no less.” He tilted his head, his curiosity deepening. “Is it… his wife?” he wondered, before quickly discarding the idea.

Reaching into his coat, he pulled out a pair of binoculars, pressing them to his eyes as he zoomed in on the scene. His lips curled into a sly grin. “Ah… not his wife. His stepdaughter.” He chuckled, the sound low and mocking. "Isn’t he shameless? Holding her hand like that. What if his wife were to see?”

He shifted his gaze back to the girl, adjusting the binoculars to get a clearer look. For a long moment, he simply watched her, an unsettling silence settling over him as he studied her face, her expressions.

.......

Chase led Petal over to the couch, where they sat together in a comfortable silence, letting the quiet moments pass between them.

After a while, he broke the silence. “Let’s go out.”

She looked at him, surprised. “What?”

“Yeah,” he nodded.

“At this hour?” she asked, glancing at the clock.

“Hmm,” he replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“But why?”

“It’s not like you’re getting any sleep,” he said with a shrug. “Might as well use this time to do something fun.”

“I could try to sleep…” she started.

“You don’t have to. We’re going,” he said firmly.

“But you must be exhausted. You were busy with work all day.”

“I’m not,” he insisted, standing up and reaching for her hand. “Come on.”

She let him pull her to her feet. “But… where?”

“For a long drive, maybe a walk… and ice cream too.”

“Ice cream? Who sells ice cream at this hour?” she asked, a skeptical smile creeping onto her face.

“I know a place,” he said with a grin. “Let’s go.”

“What about Mom? She’ll never let us leave,” Petal said, hesitating.

“Who’s going to tell her?” Chase replied, his grin widening.

“Chase, we can’t just sneak out,” she protested.

“We can, and we will,” he replied. “Let’s go.”

“Fine,” she sighed, giving in. “Let me change first.”

He paused, then nodded. “Okay, but be quick.”

As she went to get ready, Chase pulled out his phone and made a quick call. Just as he finished, Petal returned.

“You should’ve changed, too,” she said.

“Don’t I look good in this?” he asked, pretending to pose. He was wearing a fitted black shirt that emphasized his muscles, a playful smirk on his face.

She just shook her head with a small smile.

“Come on,” he said, offering his arm.

She took it, and together, they quietly slipped out of the house, making their way into the night.

.....

His eyes was still fixed on Chase’s house. He let out a low chuckle. "Enough for today, I guess. Maybe I should head back and get some sleep,” he muttered to himself, turning to leave.

But then, something caught his eye—movement at the front door. He turned back, watching closely as Chase and Petal slipped out of the house, moving quietly down the steps. They looked back cautiously before heading toward Chase’s car, trying to make as little noise as possible.

His curiosity flared. “Well, well… where could you two be going at this hour?”

He watched as Chase and Petal climbed into the car, starting it up with a low hum. Chase backed out slowly, careful not to make a sound as they eased onto the street.

Without wasting a second, the copycat moved quickly, slipping into his own car. His eyes stayed locked on their taillights as he turned on the ignition, careful to keep his distance. A dark thrill surged through him as he settled into the driver’s seat, prepared to follow them wherever they went.

.....

Chase and Petal settled into the car, the air around them calm and soothing. Petal leaned against the door, her hand out the window, eyes closed, letting the cool breeze relax her. Chase smiled, glancing at her peaceful expression as he drove. He didn’t rush, letting her savor the quiet moment until they finally reached his favorite spot by the river.

“Petal,” he called softly. Her eyes stayed closed, and he smiled, watching her, lost in the moment.

“Petal,” he called again, a bit louder.

She blinked awake, realizing they’d stopped. “Oh, I’m sorry, I got a bit lost.”

“Don’t be. I’m glad you did,” he said, chuckling. “Come on.” He unbuckled his seatbelt and quickly went over to open her door for her.

She stepped out and looked around, taking in the calm river and the city lights in the distance. “It’s perfect here,” she murmured, her voice full of wonder.

They arrived at a riverbank, where the wide river stretched out under the soft glow of moonlight. The other side of the river showcased the distant city skyline, its tall buildings twinkling in the night like faint stars. The view was serene, almost magical, with the city lights reflecting off the gentle ripples on the water. A cool breeze drifted around them, carrying a peaceful stillness that softened everything. It was a place that felt hidden from the rush of life, as if time had slowed just for them. The air was crisp and refreshing, making each breath feel calming and grounding. This was Chase’s favorite spot—a perfect escape, where the city’s distant hum seemed worlds away, leaving only the sound of the river’s quiet flow.

Just then, a faint chime rang out behind them.

“Is that... an ice cream bell?” Petal asked, bewildered.

Chase grinned. “It’s pretty common around here.” He grabbed her hand, leading her over to the small ice cream cart.

The man behind the cart wore a mask and cap, nervously adjusting it when they approached. “What can I get for you?” he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

Chase turned to Petal. “What would you like?”

“Strawberry,” she answered with a smile.

“Two strawberry cones, please,” Chase said, watching his friend, who was visibly uncomfortable.

As the man prepared their order, Petal tilted her head, studying him closely. “I think I’ve seen you somewhere before…”

The man fumbled, adjusting his mask again. Chase quickly cut in, “Must’ve seen him around town.”

But Petal kept staring, her eyes narrowing in realization. “Wait a minute... isn’t your brother a psychiatrist?”

The man froze, his eyes darting nervously between them. “Uh…”

“He looks just like your friend, Chase!” Petal said, turning to him.

“Oh, is that so?” Chase replied, feigning surprise. “Do you have a twin brother?”

The man sighed, his shoulders sagging as he glanced at Chase. “Uh… exactly. Keen eyes you’ve got,” he muttered, giving Chase a look of exasperation.

Petal beamed. “See? I knew it!”

The ice cream man sent a death glare at Chase, who pretended not to notice.

Flashback

As soon as Petal went to change, Chase pulled out his phone, calling his friend, his psychiatrist friend.

“Chase? Why are you calling so late?” His friend’s voice was groggy with sleep.

“Get up, find an ice cream cart, and get on the address I'm sending ” Chase ordered urgently.

“What? Are you drunk?” his friend muttered, still half-asleep.

“I’m serious! I’m taking Petal for a drive, and we’re getting ice cream. Just be there and play along,” Chase insisted.

“Can’t you just get your ice cream somewhere else?” his friend grumbled.

“No time! Move!” Chase said, hanging up.

End of Flashback

“Here’s your ice cream, Petal,” the man said, forcing a smile. “Enjoy.”

Petal accepted it, a bit puzzled. “Wait… how did you know my name?”

The man glanced at Chase, who shrugged with an innocent smile. “Uh… sir just mentioned it,” he stammered.

“Oh, okay,” Petal said, shrugging.

“And here’s yours, sir” the man said, shooting Chase a deadly look. He leaned in, lowering his voice so only Chase could hear. “Thanks for ruining my sleep.”

“Anytime,” Chase replied with a grin, giving his friend a playful wink.

......

They returned to the car and paused in front of it, with the soft glow of the river and city lights reflecting in their eyes. Without a word, Chase gently lifted Petal by the waist, setting her on the front of the car. She looked at him, surprised, but he only gave her a warm smile before leaning against the car beside her, both of them savoring the moment in silence.

With their ice creams in hand, they looked out over the view, taking in the quiet beauty of the river and the lights twinkling on the distant city skyline. The air was cool, crisp, and calm—a perfect night.

Petal finally broke the silence. “Thank you for bringing me out here,” she said softly, looking down at her ice cream for a moment before meeting his eyes again. “It really helped me.”

He glanced at her, a gentle warmth in his eyes. “Anytime,” he replied, smiling as their gazes held, and they both looked back toward the river. Just then, a brilliant light burst across the sky, cutting through the night with a loud, echoing boom.

They both looked up, their faces lighting up with awe as a spectacular fireworks display began, painting the sky in waves of vibrant reds, blues, and golds. Each explosion of color reflected off the river, casting glimmers across the water and filling the scene with a magical glow.

“It’s beautiful,” Petal breathed, her eyes wide and filled with wonder as she watched the sky come alive.

“It is,” Chase said, but his gaze stayed on her, captivated by the light that danced in her eyes as she admired the fireworks. To him, she was the most beautiful sight of all.

Fireworks continued to light up the sky, each one brighter and more dazzling than the last. They filled the night with bursts of light, their colors mingling and fading into each other, leaving sparkling trails that lingered just a moment before fading into the starry night. Each boom echoed across the river, like thunder rolling softly in the distance.

Petal laughed in pure joy as the fireworks grew more intense, filling the sky in every direction. Chase couldn’t help but smile, feeling a quiet happiness settle in his chest as he watched her.

As the finale began, filling the sky with a breathtaking cascade of shimmering lights, Petal looked at Chase, and he met her gaze, both of them sharing an unspoken understanding. There was no need for words—everything they felt was reflected in their smiles, and in that perfect, glittering moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the world.

As the last of the fireworks faded into the night sky, Petal’s excitement bubbled over. “That was the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen!” she exclaimed, leaning closer to Chase, lost in the moment. In her enthusiasm, she shifted just a bit too much, and before she knew it, her ice cream slipped from her hand, splattering against his chest.

“Oh no!” she gasped, panic flooding her voice as she realized what had just happened. Immediately, she darted back to the car to grab some tissues, her heart racing.

“I’m so sorry!” she said breathlessly as she returned, kneeling in front of him and dabbing at the ice cream stain with quick, nervous movements.

“It’s okay, Petal,” Chase said, his smile soft and reassuring. To make it easier for her, he unbuttoned the top few buttons of his shirt, exposing more skin, the cold remnants of the ice cream contrasting with his warm flesh.

But as she wiped, she suddenly froze, her gaze locked onto his chest. In the dim light, she saw something that made her heart stop.

Chase noticed her sudden stillness and the way her eyes widened in shock. “What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice filled with concern.

Her voice trembled as she stammered, “Petal?” but it came out barely above a whisper, a flicker of recognition and fear washing over her features. She could hardly process what she was seeing, the memories rushing back like a tidal wave.

He glanced down at his chest, realizing what she had just seen.  

The sight of her name, paired with the memories she was now struggling to confront, triggered something deep within her. Blurry images filled her mind, overwhelming her with sensations she had long buried—she could see herself, trembling and frightened, carving that name into his skin under the watchful gaze of a man who made her heart race with fear.

“Petal?” Chase called again, more urgently this time, reaching out as she staggered, her knees buckling beneath her.

In an instant, she collapsed, and before she could hit the ground, Chase was there, catching her in his arms, his heart pounding as he held her close, panic etched across his features.

Author note: I was thinking about how some of you mentioned what if Maya saw Petal’s name on Chase’s chest. But where’s the fun in that? The real thrill is when Petal sees it! 😅😅 lol.