My Rapist Sent Me A Friend Request

Sarah’s* Facebook screen flashed with a notification: she had a new friend request. She recognised the name and they had two mutual connections. The man wanting to be her ‘friend’ was the same one who, less than 72 hours prior, had raped her.

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MY HEAD went into a spin as a sharp pain shot through my still bruised ribs. Why does this monster want to be my friend? Is he my friend? Was it just a fun night that turned a little rough? Did he even rape me? Was I that drunk? No! He did rape me. And I remember everything…

It was a Friday night and my close friend Lucy*, who was also studying journalism with me at university, invited me for drinks and a ‘boogie’ with her boyfriend, James*, and his friend, Michael*. James and Michael were studying law at a different university interstate and came to visit us for the weekend. It had been a massive week of assessments so I was hanging for a night out. 

After three outfit changes, I settled on my trusty LBD, paired with some stockings and a leather jacket because the temperature was starting to drop. I added a touch of pink lippie to brighten up my look, called a taxi and arranged to meet Lucy and the guys at her place.

James opened the door while Lucy was finishing her hair and he introduced me to Michael. He was tall with a mop of brunette curls and he immediately offered to hang up my jacket and pour me a drink. Nice guy, I thought.

‘I AM SO EXCITED FOR A DANCE!’ EXCLAIMED LUCY, bounding down the stairs towards the three of us and an awaiting bottle of prosecco on the table. I was looking forward to a night out as well. Between my studies and a recent break-up, it had been a full-on few months. We downed the bubbles and headed out to a trendy new bar just around the corner from Lucy’s house.

While James and Lucy walked ahead, Michael told me about his law degree, his recent trip to Ibiza and his dog. An intelligent, nice guy who loves animals? What a catch! I thought as we entered the venue.

‘What can I get you to drink?’ Michael asked, making a beeline for the bar.