Chapter 3: Chords of Longing

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Devin's POV

I know it's most foolish to feel this way.

I try to tell myself that it's better not too, but my heart never listen.

Every time Lady Isabella smiles, it's like my heart skips a beat. There's a part of me that just wants to hold her in my arms and never let go.

Lady Isabella is a beauty, but she's more than just that.

She can also hold a terrible amount of sadness inside of her. I catch it in her eyes sometimes.

Her green eyes, no matter how much they sparkle, can't fully hide the sorrow beneath.

Why would someone so beautiful be so miserable? 

It doesn't feel right, yet I doubt a servant like me could ever understand.

-

Devin moved through the grand halls of Devereaux Hall with the practiced ease of a seasoned servant. He knew this place like the back of his hand, he has grown up here after all.

The early morning light streamed in through the tall, arched windows, casting long shadows on the polished floors. His tasks varied throughout the day, each one meticulously planned to keep the household running smoothly.

Right now his next task was to polish the silverware, a tedious but essential task. As he worked in the expansive pantry, he meticulously buffed each piece until it gleamed under the light, reflecting his focused expression. The repetitive nature of the task allowed his mind to wander.

Master Lucas, I wonder how his first meal went? He looked so out of his depth today. I'd be lying if I said I'm not curious how things will play out from here, but...I really hope she will be okay. Him being here now can't be a small change to the Devereaux family.

Devin's thoughts wondered off to Lady Isabella, a common habit of his.

He sighed, setting down the last of the polished silverware.

"Back to work." He muttered to himself, straightening his simple tunic and heading down the corridor to his next duty.

-

Devin was on his way to the library, where he had been instructed to tidy up the shelves. It was a quiet, peaceful room, filled with the musty scent of old books and the soft rustling of pages. As he rounded the corner near the main staircase, he nearly collided with Lady Isabella.

"Ah, Lady Isabella!" He said, quickly stepping back and bowing slightly. "I didn't see you there."

That would had been the second time I ran into a Devereaux family member today, thank goodness I was more careful this time.

She looked up at him, a faint smile touching her lips, though her eyes betrayed a deep sadness. In her hand, she clutched two letters, their edges slightly crumpled from being held too tightly.

"Good morning, Devin." She replied softly, her voice carrying a hint of distraction.

Devin's eyes flicked to the letters in her hand and then back to her face. "Is everything alright, my lady?" He asked, trying to keep his tone light.

Isabella forced a smile, shaking her head slightly. "Yes, yes, of course. Just some... family matters."

'Family matter' Usually meant something far more complex and troubling than she let on, but Devin knew better than to press on the topic. Instead, he shifted the conversation to safer ground.

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