(ARIELLE'S POV)
After driving for a while, I finally brought the car to halt at a spot I considered safe and tried to catch my breath. My hands shook uncontrollably on the steering wheel, while my heart thudded fast like it would jump out of my chest.
I tried to calm down, else I might not be able to drive myself home in that state. Taking slow, deep breaths, I tried to get a grip on myself. Panic tried to press in on me, but I pushed aside the feeling. I can't have a panic attack, no, not here.
After a few minutes, my heart rate slowed down to normal, and my hands steadied. Satisfied that I was okay to drive again, I turned the car back on, and resumed driving home, my senses now on high alert.
As I drove, I grew increasingly anxious, as I tried to figure why someone would follow me. It didn't add up, and intermittently, I looked at the rearview mirror to ensure the person was not behind me.
Each glance revealed nothing suspicious, but I still had to be extra careful. I couldn't risk leading the person, whomever it was, to my home, as I didn't know what their motive was.
Finally, after taking so many turns and even taking a longer route than usual, I turned into my street. Even as I pulled into the driveway, I kept my eyes fixed on the rearview mirror for any funny movements.
Heart racing, I alighted, and before I walked into the house, I looked behind my shoulders one last time.
Nothing, fortunately.
Inside, I locked the door behind me firmly, before leaning on it, with my hand pressed to my chest.
Safety. Finally.
I made it home to my mum and Son.
"Mom!" Maverick yelled, breaking into my thoughts as ran towards me.
I straightened up, stretching my arms to accommodate him. I had to put on a smile and shove the thoughts of the incident aside like it never happened. I was safe and home to my family and that was all that mattered.
"Hey, champ, how was your day?" I asked, forcing a bright smile.
"It was awesome, Mama. Nana and I made cookies," he exclaimed, his usual bubbly self.
My Mom joined us, a smile on her face. "You're back. How was your day?" And then a frown creased her forehead. "You look tired."
I nodded and forced a smile trying to sound casual. "It's nothing, mum. Just a long day."
"We missed you," Maverick said, snuggling even closer to me.
"I missed you two, too."
And then I pulled away, exhaling. "I need to freshen up. I'll be right back."
"Okay, dear. Dinner's almost ready," my mom said.
I nodded and walked away to my room, shutting the door behind me. It felt relieving to be in my space, and I inhaled deeply.
After freshening up, I joined my family for dinner. We chatted about our day, and I listened to Maverick's stories.
As dinner ended, I pushed my chair back. "I'm tired, guys. I think I'll head to bed early today."
"But Mama, you always tuck me in bed," Maverick said, his lips curving in a pout.
"I'm sorry, baby. I promise I'll do it tomorrow," I said, guilty enveloping me.
And then I leaned down, pecking his Head. "Goodnight, sweetie."
"Goodnight, Mama," he replied, hugging me.
"Are you okay?" Mum asked, looking at me intently.
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