The head maid summoned all the girls into the hall, her sharp gaze sweeping over them as they lined up in silence. Orders were handed out one by one.
"Tracy, water the flowers in the garden. Rose and Bella, the mistress's chambers. The rest of you, split the laundry and kitchen work."
Her eyes landed on Mirabel last.
"You'll clean the master's room."
A ripple of envy moved through the line. Madam Kira dismissed them and left, but the whispers started instantly.
"Why her? I've been here two years and never once set foot in his room."
"Just looking at her makes me angry."
"I swear, I could strangle her neck."
Mirabel ignored their venom. She turned away with Tracy, who hooked her arm through hers.
"I'm so happy for you," Tracy said, eyes sparkling. "Cleaning the boss's room—God, I've dreamt about him kissing me."
"Eww…" Mirabel wrinkled her nose, earning a laugh.
"Come on, let me show you around," Tracy said.
"Alright."
---
The next morning, Mirabel dressed in the uniform set out for her. It clung tighter than she liked, the skirt cut indecently short. She tugged it down again and again, uncomfortable under her own reflection. Still, she greeted Tracy and headed to her assigned chore.
At the master's door, two guards blocked the way.
"I'm here to clean," she said softly. They stepped aside.
Inside, Lucian sat by the window, a cigarette hanging from his lips, smoke curling lazily into the air. His cold silence pressed against her.
"Good morning," she murmured.
No reply. He didn't even glance her way.
Her irritation simmered, but she swallowed it and began cleaning. Each time she bent, the hem of her skirt rode higher, and she tugged it down in frustration. She hated how exposed she felt, yet Lucian's gaze followed every clumsy movement.
His thoughts were no longer his own.
She's yours. Have her. Take her now.
The urge pulsed hot through his veins until his jaw tightened. Suddenly, he snapped—his voice sharp, rough, almost desperate.
"Get out!"
Mirabel froze, wide-eyed.
"What—?"
"Out!"
Confused and shaken, she hurried from the room.
---
She found Tracy in the garden.
"You're done already?" Tracy asked eagerly.
"Yeah…" Mirabel forced a small smile. "Nothing happened. I was just cleaning, and then suddenly he shouted at me to get out."
"Don't mind him," Tracy said quickly. "He's always… different. I'll help you with your chores when I'm free."
Later, as they worked side by side, Mirabel let herself relax. But when they passed the corridor, Rose deliberately stuck her foot out. Mirabel stumbled, hitting the ground hard.
"What's your problem?" Tracy snapped.
Rose sneered down at Mirabel. "You're nothing but trash in this mansion. Don't think cleaning the master's room makes you special. Cross me, and I'll make your life miserable."
Bella smirked beside her, and the two walked away with a hiss.
"Don't listen to them," Tracy said gently, helping Mirabel to her feet. "They do this to every newcomer. Just… keep your head high."
Mirabel brushed the dust from her skirt, but deep down, unease lingered. She could still feel Lucian's eyes on her, burning through her thoughts long after she'd left his room.