Prologue

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Tuesday, 20th May, 1967

"You are to remain here, in this town, with your family. Do you understand?"

No matter how many times I seemed to have forgotten those words, it always creeps back into my thoughts in the dead of night like a pest. It's not a pleasant feeling when it does either. Just as un-pleasant as the cold chills that run upon my spine. The train shivered like it's passengers, the snow outside held my attention strongly. I was tensing my body closer than I normally would, due to the cold temperture outside the safety of the Silver Archer. The last time I had heard the voice of my family, was a few nights ago. During the night, I had packed the last of my things and escaped my hometown by carrige. The first night, I had stayed at a friend's house. Mary is someone I can always trust, ever since our time in high-school together. The 2nd, I found refuge in a hotel, 3 towns away from my own. The way I was traveling was by either horse carriages, bus or taxi. Then the 3rd night, I slept at a lodge. Which I didn't particularly enjoy because of the angry and abruptly loud neighbour's children. Now the 4th night, I have to sleep on a bumpy train, with snow falling outside.

Though it isn't to bad, since I'm not alone in this carriage. I have made a unexpected friend, a kind-hearted man named Grant. Who was also traveling in the same way until we parted ways at our station. He enjoys reading the paper, the arts and photography. I find joy in exploring nature, dancing and trying things that are normally seen as "un-ladylike". We have our differences but that makes us closer as new friends. Even if its only for the short time we have on this trip. Grant is one of those friends you make, that they are absolutely perfect, but they are the ones you never see again. I love that kind...

I hadn't realized I had fallen asleep.
I found myself being awakened by a train attendant, she shook my shoulder gently. I had finally arrived at my destination, she had taken my stuff and placed it outside on the platform waiting for me to pick them up. I looked around and noticed how Grant had dissappeared, perhaps he didnt want to wake me up?

Though that theory was shot down quickly when i asked where the kind passenger had gone. "Oh, he got off already, though he did tell me to give you this" She holds out a envelope, I take it in my hand and admire the neat wax stamp. I was surprised to find a small bit of writing on the envelope itself, noticing the familiar handwriting.

'Open this once you have arrived at your new home, Addison.
Sincerely, Your new found friend,
Grant.'

I thanked the attendant and ventured out of the train. Welcoming the sunny weather and melted snow. I collected my belongings and headed off to find my next destination. Marsh Road. At the end of it, down a long, long driveway, is where I will find my new home. Speaking of that, I have ultimately reached my desired road. As I go down the main road of the small, local town. I take in every detail. The ancient willow trees, the long swaying grass, the old half burnt house on the left, the peeling picket fences and the few animals hiding within bushes or the houses they live in. It almost seemed abandoned...

Almost.

Children's laughter reached my ears, and the chatter of parents mixed in. I gazed across the road, from what I could see. There was a birthday party, no wonder this road in particular looked abandoned. The kids were running around the front yard, streamers and confetti littered the grass. The adults were on the porch, some drinking wine and whiskey while others remained sober. One child saw me, I assumed the little girl was the birthday girl, as she wore a yellow paper crown and had bubble mix in her hand. "Mama! Look at her" she called, frantically pointing at me. I flinched at the sudden attention. Everyone looked over to me and I watched one women take hold of her son in worry.
What a b*tch...

The young girl and her mother stared at me, not in worry or confusion like the adults and other children but in awe.

As I passed, the little girl got more excited than before, I wasn't used to this kind of reaction. I dress vintage. Like the 40s, I love the collar dresses and I prefer that style more than present times. So it's normal for people to respond negatively. Though the mother, she gave a accepting smile and a small wave. I waved back shyly, giving a smile of my own, a much smaller one that is. Seconds after, I had dissappeared behind the tall growing hedge. Passing the bright house fully and continuing my journey.

After a long time, I stopped and looked at the mailbox, classic red and peeling with a rusty handle. The numbers were rusted and only added to the look it was giving. "Hey! I'm the mailbox that makes the owner look like an old hag!" It really wasn't the vibe I wanted to have, but there was more important things to do. And so, I trudged down the driveway, fatigue gradually affecting me. I couldn't help but feel anxious and uncertain. Since I've secretly moved away, into a town far away from where my family home resides. This new life is something I will have to learn to become adjusted too. The light breeze kicked up the dusty path, blowing it up and getting it into my eyes. I stop and smack away the dust before moving onwards again.

...

The cottage came into view, the front garden was stunning. Full of flowers of many kinds, lavender, daisies, peonies, carnations and even sunflowers. I made it to the door and sat my bags down. I went around the left side and got to the window. I seperated the long grass and lifted the rock behind it, revealing the key under it. I came back to the front door and put the key into the lock, i twisted it and two clicks came from it. I took out the key and swung open the door gently, relunctantly hauling my bags inside and shutting it behind me.

I looked around and let out a long sigh.

The light filtered theough the curtains and filled the house with bright sun rays. Showing the dust particles floating in the air. I found a piece of paper on the living room table, I took it into my grasp and began to read it.

'Hello Ms. Creed,
Welcome to your new home!
Hopefully you got here safely, and I hope you enjoy your new home. This cottage has many treasures with it, such as the trails of the forest in your backyard, the absolutely magnificent fields of flowers and wild animals, the gorgeous view and of course the river and creek with endless water supply. Isn't that great? This cottage offers so much, it has electricity, fresh water, warmth and everything someone like you could dream of. If you need anything, just give me a call or visit the neighbours. I'm sure they can help a young gal such as yourself, don't be afraid to explore your new surroundings.
Anyways, I hope to see you soon :)

- Samantha Williams'

At least that helped settle my nerves. I bring my bags with me as I search for the bedroom. I find it and un pack all my clothing, personal items and such. Once I'm done, I take the 2nd bag and un pack all of that, food, kitchen items and supplies. And then, the 3rd and final bag, contains items for cleaning. I decide to get rid of the cobwebs, dust and dirt earlier so i could rest easily  afterwards. Less trouble for me.

So i do...

A couple hours pass, and I fall onto the bed thankfully. Staring up at the ceiling, reminiscing into the past few days, letting the sleepiness drag me into a peaceful sleep, knowing everything is safe and perfect.
Once again...

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Hello! My apologies for such a long prologue, but i really wanted to end it satisfyingly. Thank you and I hope whoever reads this, enjoys it. Have a good day or night!

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