Lyra's pov
I stepped off the bus and onto the winding driveway, my eyes fixed on the grand estate before me. The Smith family's mansion was even more imposing than I'd imagined. As a maid, I'd worked for several wealthy families, but this one seemed different.
My name is Lyra, and I'd just landed a job as a live-in maid for the Smiths. But getting to this point hadn't been easy.
The hiring process had been grueling, with multiple interviews and background checks. I'd been screened for any potential connections to rival families or organizations that might pose a threat to the Smiths' business empire.
As a precaution, I'd been asked to provide detailed information about my family, friends, and past employers. Even my social media accounts had been scrutinized. It was as if they were searching for any hint of disloyalty or potential espionage.
Despite the intense screening process, I'd managed to convince them that I was the perfect candidate for the job. My references had checked out, and my skills as a maid were impeccable.
The Smiths were a family of five, known for their business empire and high-society status. The patriarch, Mr. Smith, was the CEO of Smith Energy Inc., a multi-million-dollar company specializing in renewable energy solutions. His wife, Mrs. Smith, was the owner of "Elegance," a boutique fashion store with a reputation for showcasing high-end designer clothing.
Their children were just as impressive. James, the eldest son, had graduated from a prestigious university and was now working alongside his father to learn the ropes of the family business. Anderson, the second son, was still in university, studying business and finance. Aria, the youngest member of the family, was a high school student with a passion for music and the arts.
As I approached the entrance, the front door swung open, and a stern-looking woman greeted me.
"Ah, Lyra, welcome. I'm Mrs. Jenkins, the housekeeper. We've been expecting you."
I nodded, trying to hide my nervousness.
"Follow me, please."
Mrs. Jenkins led me through the labyrinthine halls, pointing out various rooms and areas of the estate.
"Now, Lyra, I must inform you that the Smiths are a very particular family," Mrs. Jenkins said, her voice firm but not unkind. "They expect nothing but perfection from their staff. You'll need to be punctual, efficient, and discreet at all times."
She handed me a thick binder filled with rules and regulations.
"This is your guide to working for the Smiths. Read it carefully and memorize it. Any mistakes will be...unacceptable."
I took the binder, feeling a sense of trepidation.
"Don't worry, Lyra," Mrs. Jenkins said, noticing my concern. "You'll get used to it. Just remember to always be on your toes."
She led me to a door at the end of the hall.
"This will be your room. I think you'll find it...comfortable."
She opened the door, revealing a cozy bedroom with a plush bed, a large closet, and a private bathroom. The room was decorated in a soothing color scheme, with soft carpeting and elegant furnishings.
I gasped in surprise.
"This is...beautiful," I said, trying to hide my amazement.
Mrs. Jenkins smiled.
"Yes, the Smiths spare no expense when it comes to their staff's accommodations. You'll find everything you need here."
I nodded, still taking in the luxurious surroundings.
"Thank you, Mrs. Jenkins," I said, trying to sound composed.
"Now, get settled and rest for a bit," Mrs. Jenkins said. "Dinner is at 7 pm sharp. Don't be late."
With that, she left me to my new quarters, and I began to unpack and settle in.
I settled into my new room, taking a moment to unpack and freshen up. As I changed into my daily servant attire, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nervousness. I had a feeling that dinner was going to be a formal affair.
Before heading downstairs, I decided to review the binder Mrs. Jenkins had given me. As I flipped through the pages, I came across a list of rules and regulations:
- Always address the family members by their formal titles (Mr., Mrs., Master, Miss).
- Never enter a room without knocking, unless explicitly instructed to do so.
- Maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
- Never discuss personal matters or gossip with other staff members.
- Always wear the designated uniform and maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
- Never use the family's personal belongings or amenities without permission.
I took a deep breath, committing the rules to memory. I didn't want to make any mistakes on my first day.
Feeling more confident, I made my way downstairs to the kitchen. Maria, the cook, was busy preparing dinner, and the aroma of roasting meat and freshly baked bread filled the air.
"Ah, Lyra, just in time," Maria said, smiling. "Dinner is at 7 pm sharp. You'll be serving the family tonight."
I nodded, taking a moment to observe the beautifully set table. The china, crystal, and silverware sparkled in the soft light, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.
Just then, Mrs. Jenkins appeared, her eyes scanning the room to ensure everything was in order.
"Lyra, come with me," she said, leading me to the dining room. "It's time for your official introduction to the Smiths."
My heart skipped a beat as I followed Mrs. Jenkins into the dining room.
As I followed Mrs. Jenkins into the dining room, my heart began to race. I had heard rumors about Mrs. Smith's strict and sometimes rude demeanor, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation.
What if I made a mistake? What if I didn't meet their expectations?
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. I had worked for wealthy families before, but there was something about the Smiths that seemed different.
As we entered the dining room, I caught sight of the family seated around the table. Mr. Smith, a tall, imposing figure with a kind face, smiled warmly at me. Mrs. Smith, on the other hand, looked me up and down, her expression stern.
Their son James seemed to be sizing me up, his eyes lingering on me for a moment before looking away. Aria, the daughter, barely acknowledged my presence, too busy texting on her phone to even look up.
"Ah, Lyra, welcome," Mr. Smith said, his voice warm and welcoming. "We're glad to have you join our household staff."
Mrs. Smith nodded curtly, her eyes still fixed on me.
"Yes, Lyra. We expect great things from you. You'll be responsible for keeping the house spotless and assisting with various tasks as needed."
I nodded, trying to appear confident and capable.
"Yes, ma'am. I won't let you down."
The dinner conversation began, with Mr. Smith asking me questions about my background and experience. I answered as best I could, trying to make a good impression.
But as the conversation continued, I couldn't help but notice the underlying tensions within the family. Mrs. Smith seemed to be constantly correcting Aria, who rolled her eyes and muttered under her breath. James and his father seem to be discussing something related to business.
I observed it all, trying to stay out of the way while still being attentive to their needs.
As the dinner drew to a close, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. I had survived the first test, and I was determined to prove myself as a valuable member of the household staff.
But as I began to clear the table, I caught James's eye, and for a moment, I felt a spark of connection. It was fleeting, but it left me wondering...
As I finished dinner, I began to clear the table, trying to move quietly and efficiently. The Smith family seemed to be in a hurry to leave the table, and they all quickly excused themselves without even acknowledging my presence.
Mrs. Smith was the first to leave, followed by Aria, who didn't even bother to say thank you. James was the last to leave, but he simply nodded at me before turning to follow his family.
I watched them go, feeling a pang of disappointment. It seemed like they were all cold towards me, and I wondered if I had done something wrong.
As I continued to clear the table, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. It was clear that the Smith family was not going to make it easy for me to adjust to my new role.
I took a deep breath and tried to focus on my work, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was in for a tough time.
Just then, Mrs. Jenkins appeared in the kitchen, her expression stern.
"Lyra, I need to speak with you," she said.
I nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation.
"Yes, Mrs. Jenkins?"
"I've been watching you, Lyra, and I must say that I'm not impressed," she said. "You need to work harder and pay more attention to detail."
I felt a surge of defensiveness, but I tried to keep my cool.
"Yes, Mrs. Jenkins. I'll try to do better."
Mrs. Jenkins nodded, her expression unyielding.
"See that you do."
With that, she turned and left the kitchen, leaving me feeling frustrated and anxious.
I took a deep breath and tried to calm down, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was in for a tough time.
After finishing my duties for the night, I made my way back to my room, feeling exhausted but relieved that the day was over. As soon as I closed the door behind me, I pulled out my phone and dialed my mother's number.
"Hey, Mom," I said, trying to sound cheerful despite the long day.
"Hey, sweetie," my mother replied, her voice weak but warm. "How was your first day?"
I took a deep breath and launched into a detailed account of my day, from meeting Mrs. Jenkins to dinner with the Smith family. My mother listened attentively, asking occasional questions and making supportive noises.
"I'm scared, Mom," I admitted, feeling a lump form in my throat. "I don't know if I can do this. They're all so cold and distant."
My mother's voice was gentle but firm. "Lyra, you're doing this for me, and for us. We need the money to pay for my treatment, and this job is our best chance. Just do your best, follow orders, and don't worry about being liked. You're strong and capable, and I know you can do this. Besides they're rich people,you don't expect them to be friendly with you"
I nodded, feeling a surge of determination. My mother was right – I was doing this for her, and for our family. I would do whatever it took to make sure she got the treatment she needed.
"Okay, Mom," I said, trying to sound brave. "I'll do my best. And don't forget to take your meds tonight, okay?"
My mother laughed weakly. "I won't forget, sweetie. Thanks for reminding me."
We chatted for a few more minutes before saying our goodbyes. As I hung up the phone, I felt a sense of resolve wash over me. I would do this, no matter what.