[ForeverAutumn*]

Hi Cassie.

I'm so sorry this happened to you. Coping after rape is hard enough without having to worry about his threats. Unfortunately, threats aren't so uncommon when it comes to rape. The person who hurt you will threaten you to make you feel like they still have control, and to make you feel like you're powerless - or sometimes, they'll threaten because they're afraid of being turned in. But reasons aside - Cassie, by keeping quiet about this, you're showing him he has that power over you, you're showing him he has the upper hand. You're showing him you're afraid. He's hurt you and that's not ok, what he's done never will be ok because he had no right whatsoever to hurt you like that or cause you pain in any way.

Reporting a rape takes a lot of strength and courage, and it's even harder when you've been threatened. But, if you go to the police and report the rape, if you tell them he threatened you - Cassie, they'll protect you. He'll be arrested, they'll put a restraining order on him, and there will be people around you making sure you're safe. He won't be able to hurt you if he's been arrested. Reporting it can be scary but it's not as scary when you aren't alone. By this I mean, you might consider telling a very close friend first. Tell that friend everything that happened, and ask them to come with you when you tell your parents and the police. Having a familiar face, having someone you trust and feel comfortable with by your side, it can take away some of the nervousness.

And don't forget that when you've reported it, you'll be able to get help so you can cope with what happened. You can speak with a counselor; talking things through with someone can be such a great help. Even if it's not easy to talk about it at first it does get easier with time. You'll have support all around you - people who will be there to pick you up when you fall, who'll help you through this. You're not alone with any of this.

You've been so incredibly strong by posting here and reaching out for help, Cassie, you can be strong again and speak out about the rape. Don't bottle it up inside, don't be afraid to ask for help. I'm here if you want to talk. Take care of yourself.