The sun cast its warm rays over the small village of Ashwood, nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside. In a quaint cottage, a young girl named Emma stirred from her slumber. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes, yawning, and swung her legs over the side of the bed.

Suddenly, a soft knock at the door broke the silence. Emma's heart skipped a beat. Who could it be? She hastily dressed and made her way to the entrance.

"Who's there?" Emma called out.

"It's Mrs. Jenkins, dear. I've brought someone special to meet you," a gentle voice replied.

Emma's curiosity piqued, she opened the door to find Mrs. Jenkins, the village elder, standing beside a tiny, freckled-faced girl. The little one's bright green eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"This is Lily, Emma. She's a young orphan from the city. I've arranged for her to stay with you as your new maid," Mrs. Jenkins explained.

Emma's eyes widened in surprise. A maid? She had never had one before!

"Hello, Lily," Emma said softly, trying to hide her apprehension.

Lily smiled shyly, clutching a small, worn-out suitcase. "H-hello, Miss Emma."

As Emma welcomed Lily into her home, little did she know that this unexpected arrival would change her life forever.