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1017 Words
“So, what do you want me to do to help you?” Jason asked, his tone dripping with curiosity.
The question was like a sweet melody in my ear.
I blurted it out, my voice shaking slightly. "Sir, please can I stay here? I mean, I’ll work as one of your maids," I said, my eyes pleading.
Jason reached for his phone, his eyes locked on mine, and dialed a number. A low voice answered on the other end. “Cecilia, come to my office right now,” he said, his tone flat.
He set the phone down, the silence was heavy. Then, a soft knock, and Cecilia walked in.
“Cecilia, take her to Helen. Tell Helen to assign her to any available job and make sure she knows the rules here," he instructed.
“Thank you so much, I…” he raised his hand, stopping me mid-sentence, and nodded towards the door. Cecilia stepped forward, indicating it was time to go.
Cecilia’s heels clicked on the polished floor as she led me through a maze of corridors. I couldn’t help but stare in amazement, taking in the sleek decor and fancy artwork.
“This place looks kinda unique,” I said,
Cecilia chuckled, “Wait till we get outside,” she said, winking softly at me.
I smiled back, and we stepped out into the compound. My jaw dropped, this place was on another level! The Smiths’ mansion was nice, yes, but this was something special.
The first thing that hit me was the sheer size of the mansion. We walked past the back of the main building, a massive three-story building with columns and balconies overlooking the grounds. Palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, the garden green grass was perfectly trimmed, stretching out like a green velvet carpet. The building was like a rare palace, really. It screamed luxury and power. The guards manning the building eyed us as we passed.
Cecilia led me past the sparkling pool, and I froze for a second, my eyes drawn to the mansion's private lake that stretched out to the horizon. It was a breathtaking sight, calming and majestic. The main building seemed to stretch on forever.
I kept following Cecilia. Other maids and guards greeted her as we passed. She exuded confidence, and they all seemed to respect her for it.
I thought to myself, “She must be in her late fifties”, as I practically jogged to keep up with her. Her steps were quick and purposeful.
We walked for miles down the estate’s streets before finally reaching another building. We stepped into the house.
A very slender woman with a radiant smile approached us, her eyes shining warmly as she came closer. She greeted Cecilia with a gentle nod. “Good morning, Cecilia.”
"Good morning, Helen," Cecilia replied with a smile. "Jason said to assign this lady to any job, so I’m putting her in your hands."
Helen turned to me, “What’s your name?” she asked.
"Mara," I replied firmly.
Helen nodded warmly, “I’m Helen, I oversee the staff. Let’s find something you can do.”
I looked up. “Thank you, Helen,” I said shyly.
“I think I can take my leave now, see you around, Mara,” Cecilia said with a soft smile as she turned to leave.
“Yeah, see you some more time later and thank you, Cecilia,” I replied, waving my hand at her as she walked out.
“So, this is the staff quarter. Bet you’ve seen half of the mansion while coming here with Cecilia?” Helen stopped, turning to face me, expecting a response. I nodded in agreement.
"First, you need to know how we run things here," she said, gesturing to a chair beside her.
"Thank you," I murmured, sinking into the seat. Helen sat down beside me, her posture straight,
“Alright, let’s get started. What’s your experience with household chores?”
I hesitated for a moment, then I spoke up, “Em, I’m quite confident in myself cooking. I can clean too,” I said. Helen nodded, making a mental note.
“Good, good. Well, you will be my shadow today, learn the ropes, and we’ll see where you fit best”. She smiled warmly, “Sounds OK to you?” I nodded firmly.
"So now, let’s go over the rules. Here, we prioritize efficiency and respect. No visitors in the staff quarters, no personal phone use during work hours, no discussing household business outside the walls and, most importantly, respect the family privacy, do not go near the main building unless you are asked to." I nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility settling in.
“Got it, no visitors, no personal phone use, and keep household business private.” I repeated
Helen stood up, and I followed, trailing her onto the kitchen counter, where a stack of fresh veggies were waiting. She handed me a knife and a bowl, “Start with the carrots, peel and slice them thin.” I took the knife, feeling a pang of uncertainty, but Helen’s encouraging nod put me at ease.
I started chopping the carrots, but my cuts were all wonky and uneven. Helen gently took the knife from me. “Let me show you, it’s all in the grip and the angle,” she said, demonstrating a smooth, thin slice. “Like this, see?” She handed the knife back, and I tried again, feeling a bit self-conscious.
I followed Helen’s way and started slicing the carrot thinly. Helen gave me a nod of approval. I kept going, trying to get the rhythm.
Suddenly, the land phone rang. Helen answered it, her expression changing after a few seconds.
"Yes sir," she said, turning to me. “It’s for you.” I took the phone, confused.
“Hello?” Jason's voice was on the other end, abrupt and commanding.
"Come to my study right now." The line died before I could process anything. I stood there.
“What’s happening?” I asked myself.
- Writer
