Sunshine

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1921
Lynchburg, Virginia

Carmen shot up from his dreamless sleep to the sound of glass breaking.

His heart dropped.

He wasn't sure what he'd do to the intruder if any harm came to Eden or Rosalie.

Without another thought, he grabbed the pistol from underneath his bed and hurried to the source of the sound.

The Lord is my refuge. The Lord is my strength.

Whispers and rattling came from the kitchen as he reached the bottom step.

"No, no, no,"

Relief flooded his heart at Rosalie's voice.

He placed the pistol in the chest of drawers and entered the kitchen.

"Rosalie, dear girl, what are you doing up so early?"

She froze.

"I-i promise I won't ever never do it again. Please don't hurt me,"

The fear in her voice pierced his heart.

He came beside her and placed his hand on her shoulder, surprised to find her shivering. "I would never, Rose." He promised and gently turned her to face him. "Oh, darling," He tsked as his heart stung.

Her precious face was flushed and tears were pouring from her swollen eyes, noting that her distress was from something more than simply breaking a glass.

She whimpered and threw herself in his arms. "I-i was so scared, Mr. Carmen. The dream was so real. I-i thought h-he found us," She wept, clinging to him tightly.

Carmen sighed heavily and picked up the weeping girl. "Never," He whispered, rubbing her back soothingly. "You are safe here,"

His words only caused more tears and sobs to flow.

His heart was heavy for the girl.

She was only a child.

"H-he came and took us from you, Mr. Carmen," She croaked, resting her head on his shoulder, her tears wetting his shirt. "He told me you didn't never ever like me, you didn't want me no more," Her quiet sob crushed his heart.

"That's not true, Rosalie. I love you, dear girl." He reminded her gently, rocking her as her cries subsided.

It was natural though he never had to comfort a child this way.

"How did you end up here?"

Rosalie sniffed, pulling away from his shoulder. "I-i wanted some water, o-or milk, my hands were shaky so much and it fell,"

Carmen hummed and wiped her tears. "That's all right, dear girl."

"Why don't I put you on the couch while I clean this mess?"

She shook her head. "No. I wanna stay with you."

Her lips quivered though she tried to sound brave.

"As you will, Rose. Sit tight," He said before placing her on the counter. "We'll stay together," He squeezed her small hand, and a slight smile grew on her face.

"Together,"

-

The sunlight cast into the living room, stirring Carmen awake.

Memories from just a few hours earlier came to him as he looked down at Rosalie who was nestled at his side.

She was a precious child.

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