**Chapter 8: Taking Back Control**

The sun had barely risen over the horizon as Esme and Joel pulled into the police station. The fluorescent lights of the station's entrance flickered to life, casting a sterile glow over the parking lot. Esme felt a sense of trepidation wash over her as she stepped out of the car, Joel's reassuring presence by her side. As they walked into the station, Esme was greeted by a friendly officer who introduced himself as Officer Thompson. He listened attentively as Esme recounted the events of the previous night, his expression growing increasingly serious. "I see," he said, nodding. "And you're here to file a report and press charges against the perpetrator?" Esme nodded, her voice firm. "Yes, I am. I don't want him to hurt anyone else." Officer Thompson nodded in understanding. "Okay, let's get started. I'll need you to describe the perpetrator in as much detail as possible." Esme closed her eyes, recalling the image of the man who had attacked her. "He was tall, with a scruffy beard and a black leather jacket. He had a distinctive tattoo on his neck, a snake coiled around his throat." Officer Thompson nodded, jotting down notes on a pad of paper. "And did you get a name or any identifying information from him?" Esme hesitated, thinking back to the conversation they had exchanged. "He mentioned something about being a regular at the Red Door, and that he knew one of the bartenders." Joel's eyes narrowed, his expression thoughtful. "That's a good lead," he said. "I can talk to some of the staff at the Red Door, see if anyone recognizes the description." Officer Thompson nodded. "That's a great idea. We'll also review any security footage we can find, see if we can get a better look at the perpetrator's face." As they continued to discuss the details of the case, Esme felt a sense of determination growing inside her. She was taking back control, refusing to let the fear and anxiety of the previous night consume her. With Officer Thompson's help, Esme filed a formal report and provided a detailed description of the perpetrator. Joel offered to stay with her as she went through the process, his presence a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone. As they left the police station, Esme felt a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. She was fighting back, and she was determined to see justice served. The drive back to her house was quiet, Esme lost in thought as she processed everything that had happened. Joel's hand found its way into hers, his fingers intertwining with hers in a gentle gesture of support. When they arrived at her house, Esme turned to Joel, her eyes searching. "Thank you for being here for me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Joel's face softened, his eyes filled with warmth. "I'll always be here for you, Esme," he said. "You're not alone in this." As he pulled her into his arms, Esme felt a sense of peace wash over her. She knew that she still had a long road ahead of her, but with Joel by her side, she felt ready to face whatever came next.