The Hope of Eden

Heavy-Laden

1915
Sacramento, California

"I don't know why that man wants to see you,"

"Hush. He could be at the door."

"If you even flinch, it'll be her tail."

Eden tightened her grip on Rosalie as her parents threatened her.

She didn't like this as much as they did.

She wished Mr. Naid would disappear.

He'd hurt her in a way her parents couldn't.

Three strong knocks sounded in the kitchen.

"That'll be him. Remember," Father glared darkly at Eden. "If you act out of term, little Rosalie will be punished."

His cold words reflected his desolate heart.

He meant them.

Eden knew without a doubt.

Her heart cried for a way of escape.

Remember us, please, Lord.

"Greet him at the door, girl." Mother spat, shoving Eden towards the living room, causing her to stumble.

Rosalie gasped softly. "She is mean, Sissy," She whispered, gently patting Eden's cheek.

She was only three years old, but the little girl only knew abuse and dysfunction.

This wasn't the life Eden dreamed of for her.

It had to stop, but there was no glimpse of a way out.

Swallowing her despair, she smiled.

"Ahh, my beautiful Eden." William cheered upon seeing her. "And sweet little Rosalie," He opened his arms and Eden almost didn't let Rosalie go.

She had to.

William hugged Rosalie closely as he held her. "Hello, Rosalie,"

Rosalie, who had only seen William eight times since birth, stared until she recognized him.

"Hi,"

Eden's heart clenched at the smallness in her voice.

She was afraid.

If only she could tell her the truth.

If only she could tell herself the truth.

"Welcome, Mr. Naid. Thank you for joining us for dinner," Mother announced coming out of the kitchen with the baked chicken.

William nodded at her, still admiring Eden and Rosalie.

As he looked at Eden, his bright eyes narrowed.

There was something on her neck.

"Eden, tell me what that is on your neck." He questioned, the volume of his tone growing with each word to match his anger inside.

Her stomach turned.

"N-not-"

"Don't you lie to me." He seethed and handed Rosalie back to her. "You've been harmed."

She went to shake her head, but he was already face to face with Father.

"I told you not to touch her, Clifton."

And what should've filled her shuddering being with joy, only caused her grief and terrible fear.

Because of this, they would hurt Rosalie.

-

1921
Lynchburg, Virginia

Eden's heart raced as she sat up in bed.