LOST IN EDEN

THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST

FLASHBACK - YEAR 10

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The Claremont, an opulent Georgian manor nestled in the affluent countryside of Surrey, stood as a testament to old-world elegance. Its grand façade, adorned with ivy and intricate stonework, loomed against the wintry twilight. Inside, the house was a spectacle of grandeur, festooned with lavish Christmas decorations. The halls were lined with garlands and lights, and a towering tree adorned with golden ornaments commanded the drawing room.

Eden, draped in a black velvet Chanel mini dress that accentuated her graceful form, moved through the house with an ethereal poise. Her dress stopped just around her upper thigh, revealing legs that shimmered in the firelight. The dress featured a bow at the back, adding a touch of whimsy to its elegance. Gold Cartier earrings adorned her ears, matching the bracelets that jingled softly on her wrists. Her hair, styled in loose blowout curls, was held back by a matching Chanel velvet headband.

Blythe, comfortably ensconced in an armchair by the grand fireplace, engaged in animated conversation with Silas. He sat cross-legged on the floor, playing with Eden's black ragdoll cat, Salem. Blythe's wine-red Prada puffed mini dress complemented her sleek bun and diamond earrings, reflecting the firelight.

Scarlett found her self wandering in the Claremont's home library, a room steeped in history. Her fingers traced the spines of old books until one caught her eye—an exquisite edition of "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Its golden accents and ivory pages spoke of timeless beauty and decadence. As she marveled at the book, Eden entered, a radiant smile lighting up her face.

"I see you found my collection," Eden said, approaching Scarlett. Scarlett returned the smile, pulling Eden into a gentle hug and kissing the top of her head. Back then, Eden wasn't the frail, haunted figure she would become. At fifteen, she was vibrant and full of life, her inner turmoil still hidden beneath a veneer of happiness.

Who would've taught the Eden of then was the same as the Eden of now.

"Mum told me to come get you. Dinner's ready," Eden announced.

"Oh great, I'm starving," Scarlett sighed dramatically, earning a giggle from Eden. The warmth of Eden's hand in hers as they left the library was a comfort Scarlett would later long for.

The dining room, a blend of elegance and history, was abuzz with chatter. Scarlett sat next to Eden, opposite her parents who sat next to her little brother charlie. Eden's father, Damien, took one end of the table, his booming voice cutting through the conversations. "Thank you all for coming to this wonderful Christmas dinner. Adeline, Eden, and I are delighted to have you all here," he declared, his narcissism palpable.

Eden rolled her eyes at her father. Her mother, Adeline, sat at the other end of the table, a picture of subdued elegance. Adeline's life had been marred by Damien's control and the heartbreak of multiple miscarriages before Eden's miraculous birth. Adeline called her an angel sent to her by the lord. Yet, Eden's existence was a disappointment to Damien, who had longed for a son to inherit his ever so precious law firm. The table was a blend of lively conversation, the younger children's antics adding a touch of chaos. Elijah was kicking charlie under the table, while the younger boy threw he peas at him

"Charles Kingsley stop messing around otherwise i'm taking every little gift you've gotten today off you"

Helena, scarlett's mother shouted before looking at Elijah "Same goes for you Elijah" .Madeleine, Elijah mum spoke up "That's fine with me"
Elijah sunk into his chair picking his fork back up, While Scarlett laughed at him.