Chapter 1

Clarence sat in the passenger seat of the car, watching the world go by through the window. The landscape around was a vibrant green, the trees reaching up towards the bright blue sky. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe as they drove through this idyllic countryside.

As they passed by a small town, Clarence noticed a group of children playing in the fields, their laughter echoing through the air. He wondered what it would be like to grow up in such a peaceful place, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

But as the car continued down the winding road, Clarence couldn’t shake off the feeling of sadness that had been lingering since he received the invitation to the secluded estate. The loss of his father in that weird accident had left him alone in the world. Well, alone until that lawyer informed him that he actually had a mother and a sister. It was a big surprise for him to learn about his father’s divorce and that he had an older sister. Apparently his mother had divorced soon after Clarence was born, without even waiting to wean him. She took her daughter, who was already 3 years old at that time, and chose to leave Clarence with his father.

No reason was given for the divorce, only “irreconciliable differences,” which encompassed a huge range of possibilities, from infidelity to boredom.

But now, the 18-year old boy was on his way to meet them. He had a lot of questions, and hoped to get answers. Despite his apprehensions, Clarence couldn’t deny the beauty of the surroundings. The lush landscape seemed to stretch on forever, a stark contrast to the concrete jungle he was used to.

As they pulled up to the entrance of the estate, Clarence’s heart began to race. He had no idea what to expect, but he suspected that whatever lay ahead would mean a huge change in his life.

The car came to a stop in front of a grand Victorian mansion, its weathered brick facade partially obscured by thick ivy. Clarence took a deep breath, his hand hesitating on the door handle. The driver, a taciturn man who hadn’t spoken more than a few words during the journey, turned to him with an unreadable expression.

“We’re here, sir,” he said, his voice gruff but not unkind. “Shall I take your bags to the house?”

Clarence nodded, unable to find his voice. As he stepped out of the car, the crisp country air filled his lungs, carrying with it the scent of wildflowers and freshly cut grass. The gravel crunched beneath his feet as he made his way towards the imposing front door.

Each step feeling heavier than the last, Clarence couldn’t help but wonder about the life he could have had here. Would he have been happier growing up in this place, surrounded by nature and family? Or would the isolation have driven him mad?

Before he could reach for the ornate brass knocker, the door swung open, revealing a tall, elegant woman in her forties. She said only one word. “Clarence?”

Clarence froze, his heart pounding in his chest. The woman before him had his own eyes - a striking shade of hazel that seemed to shift colors in the light. He swallowed hard, trying to find his voice.

“Yes,” he managed to croak out. “I’m Clarence.”

The woman’s smile widened, and tears welled up in her eyes. “I’m Evelyn,” she said “I’m your mother.” Without warning, she stepped forward and enveloped him in a tight embrace. Clarence stood stiffly, unsure how to react to this sudden display of affection from a stranger who was supposedly his mother.

“Oh, my boy,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “I’ve waited so long for this moment.”

As she pulled away, Clarence caught a glimpse of movement behind her. A young woman, perhaps in her early twenties, peered around the doorframe with curiosity etched on her face.

“Please, come in. We’ve been expecting you.”

As Clarence stepped into the foyer, he was struck by the grandeur of the interior. Crystal chandeliers hung from high ceilings, and ornate rugs covered gleaming hardwood floors. The air was heavy with the scent of old books and furniture polish.