Beneath The Golden Gaze

Chapter Four: No Longer A Little Girl

Growing up in Aunt Margaret's home was an adventure, filled with laughter, challenges, and the occasional drama that only family could bring. From a young age, Heaven felt the weight of expectations pressing down on her, but she also possessed an indomitable spirit that pushed her to stand out.
At ten, she often found herself in the chaotic kitchen, trying to whip up breakfast while her cousins, Sara, Dora, and Willson, lounged at the table.
"Who knew making pancakes could be so challenging?" she'd exclaim, flicking batter playfully at Sara, who would shriek and retaliate with exaggerated disgust.
It was moments like these that brought joy to her otherwise tense household.
As she grew older, Heaven's bravery shone through at school. One day, during recess, she found herself facing off against a group of bullies who were teasing a classmate.
With her hands on her hips, she declared, "That's not cool! Everyone deserves respect!" Her fierce stand took the bullies by surprise, and she felt a rush of pride when they backed off, whispering among themselves.
Willson, watching from behind, remarked, "You're either brave or crazy." With a cheeky grin, she replied, "Maybe both!"
Home life, however, was less thrilling.
In the backyard, Heaven and Willson found their own slice of freedom as they climbed trees, daring each other to reach the highest branches. "Challenge accepted!" Heaven would shout, scrambling up the trunk with determination. But gravity had other plans; she'd inevitably lose her grip, tumbling into a soft pile of leaves below. "Well, at least it's a soft landing!" she'd laugh, shaking off the embarrassment.

Evenings brought quieter moments of reflection. On starry nights, Heaven would sneak up to the roof with Kate, the only cousin who understood her dreams. They'd lie under the stars, sharing whispers of their future aspirations. "Do you ever wonder what it would be like to live somewhere else?" Kate would ask. Heaven would dream aloud, envisioning a life free from judgment, filled with gardens and adventure.

As she approached fifteen, everything changed with a single letter—an acceptance to study abroad. The news ignited excitement within her but also suspicion from her family