PANDORA

Chapter 10

Pearl began her work at the Master's mansion. Day after day, she fed the horses and cleaned the stables. Slowly, she started to enjoy her job. She would sometimes play with the horses, even sing for them. Among them, she had a favorite horse she named Alexander.

Terry and Pearl grew closer as time passed. He often visited her, sometimes bringing fruits and bread. They would sit together, talk about their dreams, their ambitions, and laugh over little things. Terry had grown very fond of Pearl-her voice, her eyes, her smile, and the kindness she showed everyone around her.

Meanwhile, Chloe and her father had moved their bakery to the village square. With Pearl's financial support, they were able to rent a house in a peaceful environment, far better than before.

Pearl soon became like a daughter to Madam Rita. She was friendly to everyone, and people in the village grew fond of her too. Women would often say, "Oh, what a beautiful girl with an angelic heart," whenever Pearl passed by. Some even gave her little gifts as tokens of affection

Some gave Pearl jewelry, others fabrics, perfumes, or whatever they sold-simply because they loved her. She became the talk of the town, and even within the Master's mansion her name was on everyone's lips. Even the ever-frowning Madam Rita grew fond of her.

But one question lingered in the minds of many: Who were Pearl's parents? It was a mystery no one could answer.

Days turned into months, and soon almost a year had passed since Pearl first came to Vault. Her life seemed perfect-smooth and steady. She had money, Chloe and her father were doing well, Terry had become her close friend, and the bakery business was booming. For the first time, Pearl felt like she was living her dream life.

But then news began to spread: the Master's son was returning to Vaults.

"Pearl, have you heard what everyone is saying?" Chloe rushed to her one afternoon, her voice low and urgent. "He's coming back. He's not far from Vault."

"Who?" Pearl asked, surprised.

"The Master's son," Chloe whispered in a hushed tone, glancing around as if she didn't want anyone else to hear.

Pearl frowned. "And so what? What about him? Why do you sound so afraid?" she asked, almost teasing.

Chloe's voice trembled. "Because... he is the devil himself."