PROLOGUE INTRODUCING: Annabelle Rose Hellson The year is 1823, this was the year Annabelle Hellson turns twenty-one. Surviving alone ever since her father’s eviction on her sixteenth birthday—almost five years ago today. I know she should be angry and hurt to have been betrayed by her own father, in such a horrid way. However, Annabelle Rose Hellson, was not a hatful being. Not one bit of spite would be heard from her about the injustices surrounding her. Annabelle possessed a kindred soul and even though every fiber of her being screamed for revenge, her heart could not hold such a hateful grudge against that man- her blood father. Learning to fight for survival taught Annabelle many important lessons; 1. Pain is long-lasting, but not forever; 2. No matter how she might be treated she must always help someone in need and 3. Most importantly, never give up hope. Annabelle knew her Valentine will come to protect her against all the injustices of the world. Five Years Ago, 1818 PAST Being torn from her sanctuary of innocent bliss, and tossed into a violent stricken city; lonesome and desolate WORLD of the unknown, and her being unarmed was petrifying enough—it’s hugely difficult. For a woman like Annabelle, seeking a properly suited occupation was not only difficult for many women—but, very scarce. The only occupation available which, women resorted to was and ever remained the ole’ Brothel House. Employment of any sort for women outside the Brothel Life was scarce in Steinberg Romania. Most men dictate this city and unfortunately for Annabelle, men in this town think little of women and of skills outside of sex—sex-- sex. The men’s legal counsel suited jobs such as: servant duties, house maids, Nannies, Mid-Wives, mild labor,for the less