As I stood awkwardly in the grand foyer, trying to make sense of the vast space, I heard soft footsteps approaching. From what I guessed was the kitchen, an elderly woman appeared, dressed in a crisp white and black servant uniform. Her graying hair was neatly pinned up, and she had a warm, reserved smile on her face.
“Good afternoon, madame,” she greeted, sounding super kind. “I’m Monica, the Saturday cleaner here.”
I blinked, trying to return her smile. “Oh, um, hello. Valentina.”
She nodded, then gestured up the grand staircase. “I’ll show you to the second master bedroom. It’s been prepared for you.”
I followed her, feeling more out of place with every step. The marble stairs echoed beneath our feet as we climbed, and I couldn’t help but glance around at the artwork lining the wall
