Followed - First Book in the 'Missing' Trilogy

Prologue

As the girl walked home from work to her brand new apartment, she couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching her. She sped up her pace and pretended she was un-phased. On the inside however, she was terrified. She had just moved out of her parents house earlier that week, so she was already an emotional wreck. As mature and independent as she was for an 18 year old, the first few weeks away from home are scary for everyone and she was no exception. As she continued to walk, she stole a quick glance behind her but saw nothing. The street was completely empty apart from her. She relaxed a little, thinking the feeling was just in her mind, probably just her nerves acting up. As she reached her apartment complex and started up the stairs, she could have sworn she heard footsteps behind her. She spun around but again there was no one there. This time however, she wasn't so sure that it was all in her mind. she quickly ran up the last few steps and reached her door. Before she could get the key in the door, she felt a hand on her back making her jump, dropping her keys. She turned around and found herself face to face with one of her neighbours. A creepy man in his late 30's who lived on his own. "Well go on then," he said grinning "pick them up!" she bent down cautiously but before she could straighten up, he slapped her ass and she fell over. "please leave me alone!" She stammered, but he just laughed and swiped the keys from her. He opened the door and picked her up, throwing her inside. As soon as the door was shut he began to beat her until she was unconscious, he stripped her clothes off and what he did next would scar the girl for the rest of her life.....