The Hope of Eden

Steps

1912
Sacramento, California

Everything was peaceful.

Quiet.

Calm.

Settled.

Too good to be true.

And it had been since Father introduced her to Mr. Naid.

He was sickeningly restrained.

Like a chained wild animal.

She knew with time, his chains would break and he'd attack.

Was there rest for the weary?

It was her hope, but life proved it to be impossible.

Still, she would try to rest and embrace the moments of calm.

"Knock, knock,"

Her heart lurched at the gentleness of Father's voice.

"Eden, are you resting?"

A question with no sense of irritation or harmful promise attached.

Who is this man?

"No, Father. Come in." She called, steadying her voice, though she was entirely fearful.

The door opened to reveal Father.

She couldn't believe her eyes.

He was smiling.

Mother followed with a smile that matched.

This was the workings of a nightmare.

"We've just come to tell you the good news,"

Mother stood beside her bed, clasping her hands joyously.

Her face must've shown her true feelings because Father's chipper glare turned angry.

But it was gone before she could discern his true intentions.

When Father came to wreak havoc, his eyes were horrifying telling.

However, this was the first time he'd ever smiled while delivering news.

Smiles came when Eden was hurt and abased.

Her blood grew cold.

They were going to do something irreparable to her.

"Mr. William Naid has agreed to take you."

No.

"No," She whispered faintly.

"He found you pleasing. God only knows why, but I will not refuse the man. Tomorrow afternoon, he will arrive to bring you to your new home." Father explained, with irritation etched on his face, the joy long gone as if it'd never been there.

She wasn't sure how to feel.

Father and Mother were cruel. They despised her.

They hurt her. Father delighted in making her weep.

Mr. Naid didn't appear to be cruel.

He wanted her.

But she didn't understand why.

She was afraid, but truly relieved to get away from Father and Mother.

It didn't seem like something to rejoice about, but when all you've ever known was abuse and hatred, going away with a strange somewhat kindly man was a treat.

"William has offered a grant to the church in the stead of us having you. You have turned out to be a useful waste, Eden." Father chuckled cruelly, and Mother laughed along.