Fennel

Don't leave me alone again... Please...

Fennel doesn't remember much of his childhood. A small blessing. What he does remember is darkness, loneliness. Abused by his grandmother and forcibly separated from his mother, Fennel grew up in a room that could only be described as a cage. Constantly used against his mother as a bargaining chip, his very life held over her head. Though Anise was a kind mother, she was unable to protect him from the resentment within her mother's heart. Though verbally abused by his grandmother on occasion, Fennel was mostly left alone. His only daily interaction was with his mother's handmaid and closest friend Shirra. Shirra would visit him daily, bringing him his meals and the occasional book or toy to keep him occupied. When not trapped in his room Fennel was taught by a governess of his grandmother's choosing. A cold woman, she showed no affection for him and Fennel quickly learned to remain silent around her. His favorite though, was getting to spend time with his mother in her garden. He always felt safe there, for his grandmother wouldn't dare enter the maze of rosebushes. Anise kept him with her for as long as she could on those days, playing and talking and reading. He loved cuddling with her on her wicker couch, listening to her read his favorite books aloud. Those were his happiest memories, the light and warmth from them bringing him hope and light on the hardest days. But this is where his memories blur. Everyday the same, loneliness, sadness, pain. But he does remember waking up in a hospital. His mother by his side. He remembers green, and light, and feeling loved. He remember's feeling protected. But he doesn't remember why. All he knows is his nightmare is over, he can stay by his mother's side now. Now his memories can hold happiness.