"The world was on fire and no one could save me but you. It's strange what desire will make foolish people do. I never dreamed that I'd meet somebody like you."

The first time I saw her I felt that beating beast within its cage for the first time in my eighteen years here on earth. My heart.

Some might question such a statement - but let me be clear - I merely survived the affections of my parents. Or rather my mother's, as my father's attentions could be categorized otherwise.

But this creature - she captivated my entire being. She was perfection to every eye that gazed on her beauty. Long auburn hair, bright smiling eyes the color of a cloudless sky, a smile that made one lose their bearings.

But it was not this that drew me to her. For I - the baseless soul that I was - found a kindred spirit beneath the veneer of loveliness. There was a shadow that crept upon that pure face that I recognized because I carried it upon my person as well.

My shadow and I were one, and I should add not as concealed as she managed. An unlearned eye wouldn't notice it in her, but I recognized it.

We were the same.

Which is why it confused me that she was determined to dwell amongst the popular and undeserving.

The Katherines they were called. Goddesses gracing us mere mortals with their presence.

Suck me.

Laughing inwardly at this thought, the smile that spread across my face garnered her attention. She looked my way and that was the beginning of the end.

"Hi." Is all I managed as she approached. In that first greeting I was laid bare, my decrepit beating organ there for her to demolish in her bare hands should she see fit.

Beams of technicolor flitted overhead as Chris Isaak's Wicked Game splayed over the loudspeaker. The living room turned dance floor was disgusting and smelled like vomit and sweat, but it was worth it to be near her.

"Hi," she answered, and simultaneously moved her hips into mine, letting her long hair brush my shoulder as she swayed closer.

Breath hitching in my throat, I swallowed hard, trying to maintain control as this beautiful creature broke down the barriers that I had so carefully constructed.

Fuck me.

I made a promise to myself then as she bit her lip with an easy smile.

She would be mine.

And never belong to another.

And what lengths I went through to keep that promise...