The scent of damp earth lingered in the air as Emma knelt beside her father's grave. A simple wooden cross marked the site, the only thing she could afford. She traced his name with trembling fingers, her heart weighed down by grief.
"I'll make you proud, Papa," she whispered, though she had no idea how.
The past few months had been a nightmare. With her father's sudden passing, the small cottage they lived in felt emptier than ever. Bills piled up, and the whispers of neighbors pitying her situation stung more than she cared to admit. She had no choice but to find work, any work, to survive.
"Emma!" A familiar voice called, pulling her from her thoughts. It was Mrs. Dawson, an old family friend, holding a letter in her hand. "I have some news."
Emma stood, brushing the dirt off her worn dress. "What is it?"
Mrs. Dawson handed her the letter. "Mrs. Harrington is looking for a new maid. I mentioned you. She's willing to give you a chance."
Emma's breath caught. The Harringtons were one of the wealthiest families in town. Working for them meant a steady income, maybe even a place to stay. It wouldn't be easy, but beggars couldn't be choosers.
"Thank you, Mrs. Dawson," she said, gripping the letter tightly.
The next morning, Emma stood before the grand Harrington estate. The mansion loomed over her, its white columns and sprawling gardens a world away from the life she knew. She hesitated at the large wooden doors before finally knocking.
A stern-looking woman, dressed in an immaculate uniform, opened the door. "You must be Emma," she said, eyes scanning her from head to toe.
"Yes, ma'am."
"I'm Mrs. Whitmore, the head housekeeper. Follow me."
Emma stepped inside, her boots sinking into the plush red carpet. Crystal chandeliers dangled from the ceiling, casting a golden glow. She swallowed hard. This was nothing like her tiny cottage.
"You'll start immediately," Mrs. Whitmore continued. "Breakfast at six, cleaning duties throughout the day. No idle chatter. And stay out of the family's way unless needed."
Emma nodded quickly. She could do this. She had to.
As she was led to her small quarters in the servants' wing, she took a deep breath. This was her new life now. And no matter what, she would endure it.