LOVE STRUCK: Dimensions In Motion

chapter 4: Serve the masters



My mind was still reeling as I made my way through the bustling halls, looking for a bit of direction, or at least something familiar. Every turn felt unfamiliar, and every noise felt magnified. Just as I was about to turn the corner into another confusing passageway, a maid approached me. She seemed to notice my disoriented expression and, with a friendly smile, offered to help.

"Pardon me, miss," she said, her voice calm and polite. "You look a bit lost. Is it time for your break?"

"Yes," I nodded, grateful for the interruption.

"You'll find bread and milk in the provisions store. Afterward, you can relax in the courtyard," she explained, her voice as smooth as a lullaby.

My shoulders sagged with relief. "Thank you. Can you point me in the right direction?"

She gave a knowing smile. "Of course. Go through the main hall, then take the door to your left. The store's just there. After that, go up the stairs to the first floor and the courtyard will be on your right."

"Thanks!" I gave her a small wave, then took off, feeling like maybe, just maybe, I could get through this day without losing my mind.

The provisions store wasn't hard to find. The air smelled rich—dried herbs, cured meats, and something oddly comforting. As I approached the counter, a clerk, whose face was mostly hidden behind ledgers, glanced up.

"I need some bread and milk," I said, trying to sound confident despite how unsure I felt.

The clerk barely blinked before replying, "Very well, miss. Anything else you require?"

I hesitated. "Well... actually, do you have anything besides milk? I can't really drink it."

The clerk's face hardened into something close to a frown. "We only serve milk for breaks. If you have special needs, speak to the housekeeper."

I bit back a sigh, nodded, and accepted the bread and milk, determined not to let it ruin my moment of relief.

I followed the maid's directions carefully and found the courtyard—a little piece of peace amidst the chaos. It was calm, enclosed by high walls, with grass that looked almost too green to be real and hedges trimmed with military precision. A group of kids were mending their clothes, their voices light with laughter that made the air feel warmer, friendlier.

One of the kids—a little girl with cheeks like fresh apples—looked up as I handed out the milk. Her eyes brightened as she accepted it, and she beamed at me. "Thank you, miss! This is such a treat!"

A soft smile tugged at my lips as I took a seat on a bench nearby, soaking up the sunlight, letting it wash over me like I'd been starved for warmth. Beatrice, who had a way of popping up when least expected, came over, her usual politeness hanging in the air.

"May I join you, miss?" she asked, as though she were asking if I minded the sun shining.

"Please, sit!" I patted the space next to me, feeling surprisingly at ease around her.

Beatrice sat down, her gaze sharpening just a bit as she studied me. "I couldn't help but notice. You gave away your milk. May I ask why?"

I shrugged, trying not to overthink it. "I can't drink milk. Thought it better to share it." I paused. "It's not like I'm keeping it to myself."

Beatrice raised an eyebrow, a small, amused smile playing on her lips. "I also noticed... your accent. It's rather... white."

I laughed softly, shaking my head. "White? That's a new one. I never thought my accent could be 'white,' but hey, thanks for the feedback."