Go For Gold

Chapter Two

The gentle hum of the car and the purr of the engine lulled Chloe into a deep slumber, the rhythmic sounds creating a soothing melody in her ears. She drifted into a dream, wandering the grand halls and dimly lit corridors of a mystical castle.

Inside, the air hung heavy with the musty scent of aged stone and forgotten lore. Outside, wolves howled mournfully, accompanied by the eerie hoots of an owl hidden among the trees. Drawn by a faint golden shimmer, Chloe hurried towards it, the icy cold seeping through her shoes. A pirate’s chest, overflowing with golden coins and goblets, caused her to gasp, the metallic scent of wealth filling the air. A young man’s voice urged her on, his words whispering softly in her mind. The flickering candlelight danced on the walls as Chloe’s fascinated gaze reflected the mysterious treasures. The young man appeared suddenly, like a fleeting shadow, then vanished, leaving behind the sweet aroma of cinnamon. Chloe’s hand trembled as she grasped a handful of heavy, gilded coins; their cold weight pressing against her palm sent a shiver up her arm.

The chime of a phone snapped her awake, jolting her upright, the sudden noise startling her senses. Missus Nightshade answered the call, her excited voice filling the car, reverberating off the windows. Chloe reminded herself to refer to her as “mom” instead of missus.

Her gaze scanned the surroundings, taking in the vibrant colors of the flowers and the gentle sway of the trees as she listened to Evangelina’s boasting, a torrent of excited words about her new trophy, Chloe, filling the air. Chloe’s heart sank as she realized she was being groomed to be the star attraction at tonight’s gathering, thanks to the extravagant promises and invitations her new mother was extending.

Through the wide windscreen, Chloe noticed the breathtaking scene of the sun setting over the ocean, filling the sky above the small town with twilight hues. The setting sun cast a fiery golden glow over the calm azure waters, highlighting the white sails of the boats bobbing gently in the small harbor, as the cries of gulls echoed playfully above.

Chloe’s eyes landed on the weathered, slightly crooked town name sign just in time, its paint chipped and faded from years of sun and rain. ‘Shadowbrook,’ the sign read with the phrase “Welcome to Eden,” in cursive script, just below it.

Mom ended the call, stealing an affectionate peek behind her at Chloe, her eyes filled with love and concern. Chloe couldn’t hide the slight doubt that crossed her face. The pendant felt cold in her hand as she thought of Harper, guilt seeping into her heart. Evangelina turned up the volume when a classic oldies song played on the radio, filling the car with a warm and joyful nostalgia.

Chloe gasped as she noticed a mansion perched on a nearby hilltop. The estate sign read ‘Hemlock Manor’, sending a chill down her spine, the name evoking a sense of foreboding and mystery. Her eyes were drawn to the manor, where a multitude of birch trees stood sentry along the inclined driveway, their twisted branches casting eerie silhouettes over the neglected mansion. The once-grand structure now loomed in decay, with cracked windows and ivy creeping up the stone walls, whispering tales of forgotten times. Goosebumps prickled Chloe’s skin, sending icy shivers coursing through her body as the cold air carried a hint of rot and lingering sorrow. The closed, rusty iron gates stood tall, with a prominent ‘No Entry’ sign meant to keep curious passersby at bay.

Chloe’s wide eyes swept over the manor’s once-grand windows, like empty eye sockets staring out into the darkness. The broken panes allowed glimpses of the eerie scene within, sending a shiver down her spine. As her gaze lingered on a tower window, a figure materialized, its otherworldly form flickering against the dark background, causing goosebumps to rise on her arms. The gentle hum of the car echoed in her ears, adding a sense of familiarity to the eerie sight. Like a flash of lightning, she was struck by a sudden realization. The boy in the window looked just like the young man from her dreams.

“That place—what is it?” she asked, her voice filled with wonder, as the haunting manor slowly moved out of view.

Evangelina replied, almost casually, “That was Isabella Montclair’s grand home,” as if it were a known fact.

“It’s Countess Isabella Montclair,” Daddy Asher corrected, his steady gaze on his wife. It was the first time he had spoken during the long journey, the ache of sitting for hours seeping into Chloe’s bones. The only sound now was the soft hum of the engine, contrasting with the tension in the air.

“Is she still around?” Chloe asked excitedly, leaning over the armrests. Her chest throbbed with the rhythmic beat of her heart. She noticed mommy’s hand resting on daddy’s leg, a comforting touch that filled her with joy, like a warm breeze on a summer day.

“Oh no,” mommy dear said, her voice tinged with a touch of sadness, “she died hundreds of years ago, but strangely her family’s money still keeps the town alive, and no one understands how.”

Chloe’s mind was a whirlwind of questions, like a tempest swirling through her thoughts, filling her with a sense of anticipation and curiosity.

“Ice cream!” mom exclaimed suddenly, causing dad to swerve and pull into a nearby parking lot. The screech of tires and the honk of a car horn filled the air, startling Chloe. Intrigued by the unfamiliar surprise, she glanced at a nearby store where a neon sign for ice cream was happily moving, its vivid colors shining on the polished windows, luring in those craving something sweet.

Chloe was thrilled for the opportunity to stretch her legs and follow her new mother towards the ice cream shop. Daddy took a different route and disappeared around the corner of a building, the echo of his footsteps fading away.

Surprisingly, her mother took her hand before they stepped inside, the contact sending a pleasant tingle through Chloe’s fingertips. Inside, a serene silence enveloped Chloe, broken only by the faint sound of whispers and the delicate clinking of spoons in bowls.

The pink-and-white interior of the shop was a feast for the eyes, the walls adorned with pictures of delectable ice cream creations. The air was filled with the lingering scent of cinnamon, triggering memories of her peculiar dream. Nearby, a cluster of teens huddled around a table, their laughter echoing through the diner as they slurped vibrant milkshakes, the sweet aroma of strawberry and chocolate filling the air.

Chloe was met with a harsh glare from the blonde-haired girl, whose icy blue eyes narrowed as she blew a bubblegum bubble the size of a plum before it burst with a loud pop. Chloe’s heart skipped a beat, her palms becoming clammy as she felt the weight of the girl’s gaze, like a heavy fog settling around her. A boy, with sun-bleached hair and olive skin, winked at her, a playful glint in his eyes, and blew her a kiss, causing her cheeks to flush scarlet.

With a pointed avoidance of the jeering onlookers, she locked eyes with the burly man behind the counter, his broad, sun-kissed face beaming with a warmth that put her at ease.

From behind, a young man exclaimed, “Missus Nightshade, is that your new doll?” causing his friends to double over with laughter, their mocking voices piercing through the chatter. Chloe’s heart raced as her mom’s hand tightened around her fingers, seeking comfort. Mom handed over an ice cream dusted with chocolate sprinkles, the sight of the colorful treat enticing her senses. Chloe snatched it, feeling the coolness of the ice cream against her fingertips. She brought it to her lips, savoring the unfamiliar flavors that danced on her tongue, a burst of sweetness followed by a hint of bitterness. In her eagerness, a quick gulp of ice cream shot a searing cold up her nose, resulting in an overwhelming brain freeze.

She tried to chew the icy softness, but it only intensified the pain. The teenagers erupted into mocking laughter, their taunting remarks bringing a flush of embarrassment to Chloe’s face. She let go of her mother’s hand and hurried out, the sound of their laughter fading into the distance.

Under the scorching sun, she raced to her car, the burning pavement making her feet feel like they were on hot coals. In the distance, she could hear waves crashing on the shore and gulls cawing. Chloe noticed her dad tightly gripping a brown paper bag, his gaze fixed on the car ahead.

“Dad!” she exclaimed, her ice cream melting under the relentless sun. The ice cream cone tipped over, sending the ice cream sprawling onto the hot pavement. It quickly melted into a sticky white goo, leaving a faint sugary scent in the air.

“Here, take mine,” mom said, her voice filled with warmth and understanding. Chloe shook her head shyly, showing she was not interested, the lingering taste of disappointment on her tongue. From the look on dad’s face, she knew she couldn’t dare eat the messy stuff inside the car. Without a word, he unlocked the car and gestured for them to get in.

A faint glass tinkling filled the car as he placed his paper bag on the side. Chloe listened intently to their conversation as they navigated through the serene coastal town. They talked about her adaptation to her new surroundings as if she weren’t there. The gentle breeze carried the salty scent of the ocean, a refreshing tang that tickled her nose.

Although she did not know what the word “adapt” meant, she somehow had the feeling that she would find out eventually, a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty settling in her chest. The steep road led them towards the ocean, where the endless blue horizon loomed ahead, evoking a sense of both awe and dread within her. “Look out!”

Chloe shrieked, her voice echoing in the car, as she exclaimed, “we’re going to drown!”

The unfamiliar sight of the road disappearing into the vastness of the ocean filled her with a sense of impending doom. Mom leaned over the seat and caressed her leg, her touch bringing a wave of comfort and reassurance, an unfamiliar sensation that eased her worries. Dad turned onto a winding coastal road, the sound of crashing waves a constant rhythm against the rocky shore as they drove.

Chloe gasped as her dad pulled into the driveway. The new house, with its freshly painted siding and manicured lawn, took her breath away. The double-story house stood proudly against the backdrop of the ocean, its modern lines and large windows perfectly capturing the breathtaking view. The exterior was a blend of white stucco and natural stone, giving it a sleek yet inviting appearance.

Chloe could feel the salty ocean breeze gently caressing her face as she stepped out of the car. The sound of gulls filled the air, their cries echoing in the distance. She inhaled deeply, the scent of the sea mingling with the fragrant flowers in the small garden.

A spacious balcony wrapped around the upper floor, providing the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the water. Chloe pictured herself there, feeling the sun’s warmth on her skin as the vibrant colors of the sunset painted the sky.

The small garden beckoned with vibrant flowers in a kaleidoscope of colors, and a path of gleaming seashells crunching gently underfoot led to the inviting porch.

Chloe’s heart raced with excitement as she sprinted towards the front door. The wooden deck beneath her feet felt warm and smooth, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity. She could already imagine herself sitting there, bundled up in a cozy blanket, the crackling fire pit providing both warmth and a mesmerizing glow.

“Welcome home,” mom said as she caught up and unlocked the front door. Dad clutched his paper bag, dragging the weathered suitcase behind him. Chloe felt a flutter of excitement, ready to explore her new surroundings. The sound of the key turning in the lock resonated through the foyer, signaling the beginning of her new adventure.

As Chloe hurried into the grand foyer, she was struck by the grandeur of the high glass-domed ceiling, marred by splatters of gull droppings. The sunlight streaming through the windows cast a mesmerizing pattern on the marble floor, creating a dance of light and shadows. Beyond the foyer, a wide, ornate wooden staircase, polished to a gleam, ascended from the hallway to the second story, overlooking the grand foyer. Vibrant balloons adorned the banister, their colors popping against the neutral tones of the house. A large poster declaring, “Welcome Home!” stretched out across it, filling Chloe’s heart with warmth and joy.

Tears of joy welled up in Chloe’s eyes, threatening to spill over. With a loud thud, Dad dropped the heavy suitcase and rushed down the long hallway, his footsteps echoing. The anticipation and excitement in the air were palpable, as if the house itself was embracing Chloe’s arrival.

Mom proudly escorted Chloe upstairs, hand in hand, announcing, “I’ll lead you to your bedroom.” Upstairs, the plush corridor carpet muffled their footsteps as they passed the lavish bathroom, its expensive soap still subtly perfuming the air, and continued to a room hidden in a far corner.

Mommy gestured for Chloe to step inside, the sight taking her breath away. The room was bathed in soft sunlight, the curtains gently swaying in the breeze. The fresh scent of lavender filled the air, creating a calming atmosphere. Overwhelmed with emotion, Chloe choked back a sob, captivated by the sight of the plush pillows and soft blanket piled invitingly on the cozy bed; a warm. Soft pink, baby blue, and off-white hues adorned the inviting bedroom; sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the plush, velvet curtains.

A vibrant polka-dot dress in cheerful red and white lay on the bed next to a pair of pristine white sandals and a small, brown leather handbag, their colors catching Chloe’s eye. Fighting back tears, her fingers brushed against the soft, silken fabric, a shiver of bittersweet emotion running through her as she felt its smooth texture against her skin. The sight of the matching Alice band brought a smile to her face as she imagined how it would look in her hair.

“It’s all yours!” Mom said, ruffling Chloe’s hair. With a gentle touch, she explored the opulent items, savoring the rare experience of such luxurious treasures.

Chloe’s excitement grew, her heart pounding in her chest, as she eagerly asked, “Can I try it on?” Her face flushed with anticipation, a mix of emotions swirling within her. Her mother responded, her tone conditional yet filled with a hint of delight, “Yes, but clean up first.”

A wave of excitement propelled Chloe down the corridor. The luxurious bathroom welcomed her with its inviting ambiance. Her eyes were drawn to the corner tub, its gleaming surface reflecting the soft, golden glow of the candlelight. As her mother opened the faucets, the sound of water gushing filled the air, mixing with the faint scent of lavender from the blueish liquid she sprinkled into the tub. White bubbles, like tiny pearls, danced and swirled on the water’s surface, their gentle popping creating a soft, playful symphony. Chloe giggled with unrestrained joy as her fingers brushed through the popping bubbles, the cool, soft texture a delightful surprise against her skin; a faint scent of sweet soap filled the air.

Without hesitation, Chloe shed her threadbare pinafore, the rough fabric scratching against her skin as the weight of years lifted with each garment. Mom left the bathroom, quietly closing the door. As Chloe sank into the warm water, the sensation enveloped her body, easing her muscles and washing away the weariness of the past. The candlelight danced in the bathroom, its flickering flames casting playful shadows that transformed the space into a mesmerizing and comforting sanctuary.

Although hunger gnawed at her stomach, Chloe willingly surrendered to this rare moment of indulgence. The soothing sounds of nature lulled her; she closed her eyes, breathing in the tranquility.

Suddenly, muffled footsteps on the weathered floorboards outside the bathroom door interrupted the tranquility. Chloe sat up with a sudden splash, her muscles taut, listening intently for any further sounds, the silence heavy with anticipation. The footsteps seemed to tiptoe closer, causing her heart to race. She glared at the door, her eyes filled with suspicion, but the sound faded as it reached the bathroom door, leaving her puzzled.

Shaking off her unease, Chloe resumed her bath, lathering her body with soap. The scent of lavender mingled with the warm steam, creating a fragrant cloud that enveloped her senses. With a light heart, she hummed a tune so joyful it seemed to chase away the shadows.

Outside the bathroom door, she caught the sound of heavy breathing, a low, unfamiliar noise that sent a shiver down her spine. A rhythmic “fap,” followed by a grunt, groan, and exaggerated sigh that seemed to vibrate through the floor, echoed through the room before the creaking footsteps faded. Confusion furrowed Chloe’s brow as she called out, “Hello?”

A heavy silence pressed down, broken only by the mocking drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet, each drop echoing her unanswered question in the stillness. Chloe felt a jumble of emotions, overwhelmed by the unfamiliar sights and sounds. She waved her hand dismissively, brushing off the unsettling sounds as mere tricks of her mind, though she couldn’t shake the feeling that they were real.

Sinking back into the warm embrace of the tub, Chloe allowed herself to be lulled into a deep slumber. The trickling water acted as a lullaby, its gentle rhythm guiding her into the realm of dreams. In her slumber, she encountered a strange vision, a young ghost with a neat hairstyle and piercing gaze. The young man’s charming smile beckoned her, a warmth that drew her in, and she reached out to touch him, but her fingers passed through his shimmering form, as if he were a mirage vanishing in the desert heat. The image jolted her awake, her eyes wide with a mixture of surprise and curiosity.