Stars burst through his vision as his father’s hand connected with his face. His vision blurred and before he knew it he was on the floor half on his side, half on his back with his arm caught in a painfully awkward grip. A soft whimper escaped those sweet lips. Alex wasn’t sure what hurt more, the blinding pain in his face or the bruise forming over a bruise on his wrist.<br/><br/>“Daddy... please...” Alex pleaded in a soft voice. The plea for no more pain was loud and clear in his voice even if it wasn’t said in his words. Those beautiful blue eyes blinked several times as he tried to focus through the tears starting to well up. “I won’t leave you... I’m sorry.. I’m sorry. Please.. I’m sorry.” He swallowed hard and tried to straighten his arm.<br/><br/>Alex wasn’t intending to stay even though he said it, but he was afraid and he was about willing to say anything.