"I'm Dayana, and this is my little sister Lilia. Thank you for taking care of my parents' house all these years. Your dedication is truly appreciated."
As I handed the housekeeper the payment, I felt grateful for her loyalty.
She had maintained the house for 15 years, never abandoning it.
We're from an orphanage. We never knew our parents, who tragically passed away in a car accident.
I still vividly remember the pain of that moment.
I was touched that they had left us this inheritance, despite never knowing us.
I thought we were just lost memories.
To our surprise, we had inherited this grand mansion and antique shop.
"I never knew my mother was fond of collecting old treasures," I mused, smiling at the housekeeper's nod.
After bidding the housekeeper farewell, we began settling in.
The house needed attention, but I was undeterred.
It's a bit dirty, but I'm used to it. Actually, this old antique house reminds me of a castle.
It feels like a connection to our parents, and that's why I love it here.
A few hours later..
As I unpacked, a knock at the door broke the silence. I nervously made my way downstairs, Lilia must be sleeping now upstairs.
'Who could be visiting at this ungodly hour?' I wondered.
'Who's there?' I called out, but the silence was deafening. My heart racing, I approached the peephole, yet saw no one. Cautious, I retrieved a hammer from a nearby box before opening the door.
Just as I hesitated, a soft voice whispered, 'Dayana, it's me.' I relaxed, 'It's just the housekeeper from earlier.'
I put the hammer back and opened the door to find the housekeeper standing there, her expression worried. Sensing she had something important to share, I invited her in for a cup of tea."