Teddy Bear Love

Chapter II - Vox Manor

Lucy

I woke up as the vehicle came to a stop. With a sigh of relief, I took off my sleep mask and earmuffs and stashed them in my bag. As I looked down at my hands, I realized that I had been gripping them together so tightly that my nails had drawn blood. The chauffeur opened the door for me, and I stepped out onto the paved driveway. "Welcome to Vox Manor," he said with a nod, "Quite a sight, innit, miss?

"Yes indeed." Standing before the grand entrance, I couldn't help but marvel at the archway. Its intricate details pointed upward as if reaching for the heavens. The antique Victorian manor exuded an aura of timeless elegance. All I wanted was to explore its grounds and learn about its rich history.

"Well, c'mon miss. I'm sure Mrs. Carver is expecting ya. Mustn't keep 'er waiting. Lady Vivianne is out today, but I don't doubt you'll meet 'er eventually. It's Mrs. and Mr. yer be lucky if yer meet at all."

"Lady? I had no idea titles were still used," I remarked as I followed him up the cobblestone stairs. "Oh yes, the Vox family holds their respected titles dear to them," he replied firmly. He opened the door for me and placed my duffle on the floor. "Well, it was very nice meeting ya-" He stopped and gave me a quizzical look.

"Lucy—Lucy Windsor," I informed him. He squinted as if deep in thought. "Windsor..." My brows furrowed at his reaction. "And your name is?"

"Out! You know better than to hang around the front entrance," said a crisp voice with an edge of authority. He tipped his hat and left briskly, "Yes, Mrs. Carver."

I turned to see Mrs. Carver standing at the top of the cherry wood steps. "Welcome to Vox Manor."

"Thank you, Mrs. Carver," I replied, my voice displaying a hint of awe as I took in the breathtaking interior of the manor.

"Please, follow me," said Mrs. Carver, turning on her heel with military precision. I picked up my duffle bag and quickly ascended the stairs. I trailed behind, her footsteps echoing in the cavernous entrance hall. Portraits of stern-looking ancestors gazed down at me from their gilded frames. I had the feeling this house should be a historical site instead of inhabited.

"Vox Manor has stood for nearly three centuries," Mrs. Carver began, her tone factual yet not unkind. "As you can see, the original structure has been preserved. The family prides itself on tradition."

The opulence of the place was almost suffocating. Every surface gleamed, and the air smelled faintly of beeswax and lavender. We passed through drawing rooms adorned with silk wallpaper and crystal chandeliers, each seemingly more lavish than the last.

"Quietness is a virtue here, Miss Windsor. You will do well to remember this," Mrs. Carver stated.

I nodded, "Yes, ma'am." Mrs. Carver's salt and pepper hair was neat and braided atop her head. Her clothes were pressed, vintage, and holding the same essence of the house.

"Here we have the library," Mrs. Carver continued, pushing open a set of double doors. My heart skipped a beat at the sight of the towering shelves lined with leather-bound volumes, the scent of old paper inviting me in. You will be in charge of keeping this room dust-free. You may also feel free to use the library to complete your studies."

"Yes, ma'am," I murmured, my fingers itching to trace the spines of the books.

"Of course, I must remind you that while we value the scholarship, your primary role here is as a participant in the work-study program. The rest of your duties will be explained in due course."

"Understood," I affirmed. My primary role is to secure this work-study. There was nothing more I wanted to do than help the girls back home. My heart was saddened at the thought of all those left to fend for themselves. Girls like me needed this back then, and I'll make sure they have it going forward.