I headed straight for my car parked down the street, not daring to use the one in our driveway. Once inside, I locked the doors and drove away, my hands gripping the wheel with white-knuckled intensity. As I drove, I dialed 911, my voice steady despite the terror coursing through me.
I explained everything, from the suspicions that had led me to investigate to the horrifying truths I had uncovered. The operator assured me that help was on the way, directing me to the nearest police station. In the safety of the station, I handed over the evidence, my story corroborated by the digital and physical proof I had gathered.
The officers were diligent and thorough, offering reassurance as they launched an investigation. The nightmare with Dererick was far from over, but I had taken the first steps toward reclaiming my life and ensuring justice for his other victims. With every mile I had driven and every word I had spoken, I was carving a path out of the darkness he had dragged me into.
There was no turning back now, and I was determined to see this through to the end.
