Page 125 of Velvet Chains
My heart shatters into a thousand pieces. “I… I’m so sorry, love,” I manage, struggling to find the words to console her. My own memories rise up like bitter bile.
I know how it feels. To be abandoned, betrayed by the person who’s supposed to protect and love you unconditionally.
My own father did the same, although under different circumstances. But the pain, the sense of loss and confusion… it’s all too familiar.
I hold Eli closer, trying to pour all my love and comfort into the embrace.
I’m here. I won’t let you face this alone. We’re in this together, little one.
As we cling to each other, finding solace in the shared warmth, Eli suddenly pulls back. Her eyes are red-rimmed but bright with a new idea.
“Tetya Laura,” she says, a small, tentative smile tugging at her lips. “Let’s pretend this is Wonderland, like in Alice’s story. And we’re the heroes who have to beat the evil Queen of Hearts.”
I blink, surprised by the sudden shift. But then I see the glimmer of hope, of resilience, in Eli’s gaze, and I feel a rush of pride and love.
That’s my brave girl. Finding light in the darkness, just like her mother.
“Okay,” I agree, forcing a smile. “So, if this is Wonderland, then who am I? The White Rabbit?”
Eli giggles, shaking her head. “No, silly. You’re Alice! The clever, curious girl who isn’t afraid of anything.”
I raise an eyebrow, playing along. “And who are you, then? The Cheshire Cat?”
Eli puffs out her small chest, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. “I’m the Mad Hatter, of course! The one who comes up with all the crazy, brilliant plans.”
I can’t help but laugh, marveling at her imagination, her spirit. “Alright then, Mad Hatter. What’s our first move against the evil Queen?”
Eli taps her chin, pretending to think hard. “Well, first, we need to find the magic mushrooms that will make us grow big and strong. Then we can storm the castle and rescue the good people of Wonderland!”
I nod seriously, playing along. “Good plan. And where do we find these magic mushrooms?”
Eli looks around the dingy room, her nose wrinkling. “Not here, that’s for sure. This place is all yucky and smelly. The mushrooms would never grow here.”
“Hmm, you’re right.” I pretend to ponder, tapping my foot. “Maybe we need to hide first, then we’ll find our way to a magic garden or something.”
Eli’s eyes light up, catching on to the hidden meaning. “Yes! We’ll hide, then escape and find our friends, the ones who can help us beat the Queen. Like the White Knight and the March Hare.” Her little face is so bright and brave that it makes my heart ache.
Oh God, please let me be brave.
As I scan the room, looking for any means of escape or hiding, my gaze falls on the small ventilation fan set into the wall. It’s old and rusted, the blades caked with grime, but it sparks an idea in my mind.
“Eli,” I say slowly, keeping my voice low. “I think I know where we can hide you to keep you safe from the Queen’s guards.”
Eli leans in, her eyes wide with curiosity. “Where, Tetya Laura?”
I point to the vent, a small smile tugging at my lips. “In the secret tunnel, of course. The one that leads to a hidden room in the castle.”
Eli’s gaze follows my finger, and I see the moment she understands. Her face lights up with excitement but then quickly falls into a frown.
“But Tetya Laura,” she whispers, her voice small. “What about you? I don’t want to hide without you.”
My heart swells with love and pride at her concern.
So young, but already so loyal, so brave.
“Don’t worry about me, sweetheart,” I assure her, giving her hand a squeeze. “I’ll be right here, guarding the entrance to the tunnel. I need you to be safe, Eli. That’s the most important thing.”
Eli hesitates, fear and worry warring in her eyes. But then she nods, a determined set to her small chin. “Okay,” she whispers. “I’ll hide, Tetya Laura. But you have to promise to stay safe, too, okay?”
