LOVE'S QUAGMIRE [18+]

Chapter 7: Rules

After having breakfast I came out of the dining hall and looked around to find myself in a different part of this vast estate.

 Seriously, this place felt like a total labyrinth. I wondered if other people were living here besides us. 

As I stared at one of the photos hanging on the wall, someone spoke, "Mrs. Reynolds." 

I turned around to see the same old lady from yesterday, noticing a subtle change in her expression when she saw me. She glanced at me from head to toe, maybe not liking what I was wearing, but then she spoke, "Well, I hope you have a moment free."

"Yes." 

She gave me a small smile and continued, "I'm Victoria Thornfield, the house steward. I've been serving this family for the past 35 years."

My eyes widened a little at the mention of 35 years; that was quite an impressive tenure.

 "You may refer to me by my surname whenever you need my assistance," she spoke while I gave a nod. 

She continued, "I have arranged for one of the staff to accompany you and explore the estate," and at that moment, Catherine entered the scene.

 "This is Catherine, and she'll be accompanying you,"  Catherine bowed.

"Catherine, please ensure Mrs. Reynolds' comfort during her exploration," Catherine nodded and led me around the estate, starting from the entry hall and then walking towards the dining area. 

As we strolled, I admired the ceilings, paintings, and furniture. The overall ambiance of the place was beautiful and meticulously preserved.

 Everything appeared untouched, clean, shining, and carefully placed. 

Exiting the dining area, she guided me through a long passage with turquoise-colored walls and wooden flooring.

 On our left were the side tables adorned with candles and antiques, and paintings hanging on the walls. On the right, there were those French windows. At the end of the passage, there was a door. She twisted the knob, revealing a ballroom. My eyes widened at its sheer size, feeling like I had stepped into a fairy tale.