ARIA'S POV.
The kitchen smelled warm and comforting, filled with the scents of grilled meat, garlic butter, and mashed potatoes. Steam rose from pots, and the clatter of dishes echoed as Hannah and I worked side by side. My hands moved automatically, placing spoons neatly, arranging plates, trying not to let my thoughts wander to certain places.
Hannah’s voice cut through the noise. “Alright, girls, that’s all for tonight. Goodnight, everyone.”
The other maids immediately straightened, wiping off their hands and packing up.
“Goodnight, Hannah. Goodnight, Aria,” they chorused politely as they filed out the side door.
I blinked, caught off guard. “Goodnight…” I murmured, giving them a small wave, though I doubted they noticed.
When the door closed and the room grew quiet, I glanced at
