Once called a comfort zone
The Murray family
The birds were singing melodiously, the sun shining at its brightest making anyone's skin burn within minutes, a slender figure could be seen struggling to stay asleep, but the rays of the sun were too strong to be ignored. Out of annoyance, the girl's face flushed red and immediately drew the curtains to continue her sleep, but it seems that Luck wasn't on her side today.
In the blink of an eye, an icy blast of water exploded onto her skin, sending her heart racing.
" Ahhh! What... what was that for?!
Her eyes bulged like shattered marbles, her skin numbed as if frost-bitten, and her entire being seemed to vibrate with a single, stunned thought: "What just happened?"
" You lazy, ungrateful child! You are a complete and utter disappointment. You think you can sleep in all day after the mess you made last night, sleeping in like some kind of sloth. Get up and get to work . And if you are ever late again, there will be consequences."!
Camilla Murray's tone was laced with a cold, calculated cruelty, her voice dripped with venom, her eyes blazing with a toxic mix of disdain and contempt.
Leaving Jasmine feeling flaying and vulnerable, as if Jasmine Murray's very own existence was an affront to her own dignity.
Jasmine's eyes welled up with tears as she felt the sting of Camilla's words. She looked down, her gaze dropping to the floor as if the weight of Camilla's disdain was too much to bear, her face crumpled, and her lips trembled, but she bit back the tears, refusing to give Camilla the satisfaction of seeing her cry.
She slowly gets off the bed, her movements mechanical and defeated, not uttering a single word. Jasmine left the room.
Camila's eyes narrowed, her gaze lingering on the empty space where Jasmine had stood. As she turned away, her expression hardened, and she added, "And to think she's been sleeping in till seven? She's lucky I don't throw her out on the streets. She's nothing but a burden, she is nothing but a slave, a constant reminder of my husband's foolishness in bringing her into our home."
*Jasmine Murray *
The Murrey family's estate was a grandiose monstrosity, a testament to their wealth and status. The mansion loomed before Jasmine, its imposing facade of a masterclass in architectural excess. Towering columns supported the entrance, while intricately carved stonework and gleaming glass adorned the walls.
As she stepped inside, Jasmine's eyes adjusted to the dazzling opulence that surrounded her. The marble floors gleamed like polished ice, reflecting the light that poured in through the crystal chandeliers. The air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers and the soft hum of expensive perfume.
Every room was a showcase for the Murray's impeccable taste and deep pockets. Plush sofas and chairs from designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci were arranged artfully around coffee tables made from rare, exotic woods. The walls were adorned with original artwork by famous artists, while the floors were covered in plush carpets that felt like silk beneath Jasmine's feet.
The kitchen was a sleek, high-tech haven, equipped with the latest appliances from brands like Miele and Sub-Zero. A walk-in pantry was stocked with gourmet delicacies and fine wines, while a separate wine cellar housed an impressive collection of rare vintages.
Upstairs, the bedrooms were lavish retreats, each one a serene oasis equipped with every conceivable luxury. From the Egyptian cotton sheets to the designer clothing that spilled out of the walk-in closets, every detail screamed of the Murrays' extraordinary wealth.
Despite the overwhelming opulence, Jasmine felt like an outsider, a mere servant in a household where she would never truly belong. The constant reminders of her lowly status – the endless chores, the belittling comments, the cold, calculating gaze of Camila Murrey – made her feel like a tiny, insignificant speck in the grand scheme of the Murray family's lives.
As Jasmine polished the silverware, the sound of high heels clicking on the marble floor announced the arrival of Alexis Murrey, the family's biological daughter. Alexis descended the stairs, her blonde hair cascading down her back like a golden waterfall. Her eyes sparkled with a sense of entitlement as she gazed at Jasmine.
"Hey, servant," Alexis said, not even bothering to look at Jasmine directly. "I need you to make me some avocado toast. And not just any avocado toast – I want it with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon. And make sure it's organic, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. And don't even think about skimping on the truffle oil."
Alexis tossed her phone onto the couch and continued, "And, oh, make sure it's ready in 20 minutes. I have a brunch date at Wellington's, and I don't want to be late. Now, get to work, servant!"
Alexis lounged on the plush couch in the living room, flipping through her phone as she waited for Jasmine to prepare her avocado toast. Her mother, Camila, entered the room, a look of stern determination etched on her face.
"Alexis, darling, I need to talk to you about today's brunch date with the Wallingtons," Camila said, settling into the armchair across from Alexis.
Alexis raised an eyebrow, but set her phone aside, giving her mother her full attention.
"What about it, Mother?" Alexis asked, her tone neutral.
Camila leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "You need to make a good impression, Alexis. The Wellington's are one of the most influential families in the city, and this marriage alliance is crucial for our family's future.
Alexis nodded, her expression serious. "I know, Mother. I'll be on my best behavior."
Camila's gaze lingered on Alexis's face, as if searching for any sign of weakness. "See that's who you are, Alexis. You must present yourself as a poised, refined, and intelligent young woman. No tantrums, no outbursts, no showing your true nature."
Just then, Malcolm Murray, Alexis's father, walked into the room, a hint of curiosity on his face.
"What are you girls talking about?" he asked, his deep voice commanding attention.
Camila turned to him, a smooth smile spreading across her face. "Just discussing Alexis's brunch date with the Wellington's today, dear. Reminding her of the importance of making a good impression."
Malcolm's gaze shifted to Alexis, his expression serious. "Indeed. This is a crucial meeting, Alexis. The Wellingtons are not to be underestimated. You must be on your best behavior and show them that you're a worthy partner for their son."
Alexis nodded, her face set in a determined expression. "I won't disappoint you, Father. I'll make sure to impress the Wellingtons."