A unexpectedly fall into darkness

Chapter 7: what's happen next

Aurora sat quietly on the edge of the bed, her gaze sweeping across the lavish room she had been given. She traced her fingers along the smooth fabric of the quilt, marveling at the elegance that surrounded her. She couldn't help but think, This is a maid's quarters? The delicate carvings on the furniture, the polished wood floors, and the plush curtains made it seem more like a guest suite in a nobleman's house than a servant's room.

Shivering, she pulled her thin shawl tighter around her shoulders and moved closer to the crackling fireplace. The heat kissed her frozen skin, but it wasn't enough to chase away the lingering chill. She had been cold ever since Lucas had rescued her in the forest. The memory of that night flashed through her mind-a blur of terror and adrenaline.

Her hand brushed against her temple as she recalled the way Lucas had effortlessly slashed the beast, he must a very skilled fighter she said to herself. How is it possible for someone to be so perfect? she wondered.

His sharp features and piercing eyes had been etched into her mind since the moment he had pulled her from the brink of danger. But she quickly shook herself. No, she thought firmly. I'm his servant now. I can't afford to think like this.

Aurora had always prided herself on her independence, but Lucas had unravelled her carefully guarded resolve in less than a day. She frowned, clenching her fists. I can't let him have this power over me.

The sudden sound of footsteps broke her reverie. Her heart leapt into her throat as the noise grew louder, closer. A sharp knock at the door sent her pulse racing.

Aurora stood, her movements hesitant as if each step toward the door weighed her down. She opened it slowly, her breath catching in her chest when she saw who stood before her.

A stunning young woman, no older than her early twenties, stood in the doorway holding a neat bundle of folded clothes. Her sleek black hair was pinned elegantly at the nape of her neck, and her bright hazel eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"I was instructed to bring you these," the woman said, her voice light and melodic.

Aurora accepted the clothes with a polite smile. "Thank you," she murmured.

The woman tilted her head, studying Aurora with a friendly gaze. "You must be new here," she said. "What's your name?"

"Aurora," she replied, her voice a little steadier now. "Aurora Santos."

The woman's smile widened. "Nice to meet you, Aurora. I'm Hillary."

"Hillary," Aurora repeated, nodding. "It's nice to meet you too."

Hillary gave a small bow before turning on her heel. "Good luck," she called over her shoulder as she disappeared down the corridor.

Aurora closed the door and turned her attention to the clothes in her hands. It was unmistakably a maid's uniform: a navy-blue dress with a crisp white apron, a belt to cinch the waist, and buttons running down the front. She sighed, her fingers running over the fabric. So this is my life now.

Her eyes drifted toward the adjoining bathroom. The door was slightly ajar, revealing hints of ornate tile work inside. With a resigned sigh, Aurora gathered the clothes and stepped into the bathroom, her breath hitching as she took in the space.

The bathroom was like something out of a fairytale. Gleaming silver fixtures and marble countertops adorned the room. A clawfoot tub sat at the center, surrounded by gilded mirrors and intricate tile patterns. Aurora felt like she had stepped back in time.

She stripped out of her damp clothes, warmed by the fire's proximity, and reached for the basin of water that had been left for her. A sharp gasp escaped her lips when she touched it-it was icy cold, biting against her skin.