Jessica was led in personally by Lady Matilda. Together, they bypassed the expansive living room — typically the first stop for guests. The space screamed opulence, dressed in extravagant furnishings and state-of-the-art sophistication. It wasn't just a room; it was a living testament to the Santiagos' wealth, influence, and legacy.
The maids they passed smiled and greeted Jessica warmly — some overly eager, others quietly amused and others with a trace of hesitation..
A few smiled sheepishly, while others gawked at her with thinly veiled curiosity. She noticed the sideways glances, the awkward giggles, and when they thought she couldn't hear, they whispered among themselves in hushed tones.
That strange, crawling sense of being studied… not with malice, but with the uncomfortable reverence reserved for someone important—someone unexpected.
It was subtle, but she felt it. Something was off. A strange feeling stirred in Jessica's gut.
