Mira’s hands were slick with soap and warm water as she scrubbed a wooden bowl. The scent of herbs and freshly baked bread lingered in the air, mixing with the comforting crackle of the hearth. She worked side by side with her mother, Evelyn, who hummed a soft tune while kneading dough.

Though the tasks were simple, Mira’s thoughts churned beneath her calm exterior. Her father’s announcement about her impending marriage still gnawed at her, an unrelenting weight pressing down on her shoulders.

“Mira, dear, would you fetch me the herbs from the shelf?” Evelyn asked, her tone warm and affectionate.

“Of course, Mother,” Mira replied. She rinsed her hands, dried them quickly, and reached for the small jars lining the wooden shelf.

As she passed her mother the herbs, Evelyn gave her a small smile. “Thank you, love. You’ve been so helpful this morning. You’ll make a fine housewife one day.”

Mira’s stomach tightened at the comment, but she forced a polite nod. “What are we making today?”

“Bread and herb stew for lunch,” Evelyn replied as she sprinkled some dried thyme into the bubbling pot. Then, with a sly smile, she added, “And perhaps a pie, if you’re up for helping me with the pastry.”

Mira nodded again, determined to stay focused. “I’d like that.”

Evelyn continued her work, her movements efficient and graceful. Mira noticed how her mother seemed to flow through each task with ease, her hands moving with practiced precision.

After a moment, Evelyn turned to Mira, her expression thoughtful. “Mira, do you know why I can work so quickly and get everything done so neatly?”

Mira shook her head. “I thought it was just years of practice.”

Evelyn chuckled softly. “That’s part of it, yes. But it’s also because of my class. I’m a Hearthkeeper.”

Mira blinked. “Hearthkeeper?”

“Yes. It’s a class that’s perfect for running a household,” Evelyn explained. “With it, I can use skills to make my work easier and more efficient. For example, watch this.”

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She held her hands over the dough she had been kneading and murmured, “[Perfect Rise].” The dough shimmered faintly for a moment before swelling slightly, taking on a smooth, even texture.

Mira’s eyes widened. “You made it rise so quickly!”

Evelyn smiled. “It saves time, and it ensures the bread turns out perfectly every time. There’s also [Steady Flame], which helps me keep the hearth fire at just the right temperature, and [Clean Sweep], which makes tidying up so much easier.”

As she spoke, Evelyn demonstrated another skill. She waved her hand over the counter, murmuring “[Clean Sweep],” and the scattered flour and crumbs vanished instantly, leaving the surface spotless.

Mira stared, a mixture of awe and unease swirling within her. “That’s… impressive,” she said, her voice hesitant.

“It is, isn’t it?” Evelyn said, her tone bright. “The Hearthkeeper class is a blessing, Mira. It makes managing a home not just possible but enjoyable. I’ve always been proud of it, and I think you’d find it rewarding too.”

Mira looked down at her hands, the weight of her mother’s words settling over her. She could see the appeal of such skills, but the idea of dedicating her life to household tasks—of being confined to this role—made her chest tighten.

Evelyn seemed to sense her hesitation. She reached out, gently placing a flour-dusted hand on Mira’s arm. “I know it might not sound exciting, but it’s important work, Mira. And William will appreciate it. He’s looking for a wife who can manage a home, raise children, and keep the household running smoothly. A Hearthkeeper, or another household class, would make you an ideal match for him.”

Mira’s jaw tightened. “But what about what I want, Mother?”

Evelyn blinked, her smile faltering slightly. “What do you mean, dear?”

“I mean…” Mira hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “What if I want to do something else? Something outside the house?”

Evelyn’s expression softened, but there was a hint of worry in her eyes. “Mira, I understand that you might dream of something different, but the world isn’t kind to women who step outside their roles. William is a good man—a hunter. He’ll provide for you and your future children. You’ll never go hungry or cold. Isn’t that worth something?”

Mira’s chest tightened further. “But what if I want more than that?”

Her mother sighed, her gaze tender but firm. “Mira, I want you to be happy. Truly, I do. But happiness comes from security, from knowing you’re cared for and safe. William can give you that. He’ll ensure you never have to worry about where your next meal is coming from or whether your children will go without.”

Mira swallowed hard, struggling to keep her emotions in check. “But—”

“No buts, dear,” Evelyn interrupted gently. “This is a good match for you. You’re lucky to have such a kind, capable man as your future husband. Many girls your age don’t get such an opportunity.”

Mira bit her lip, her heart sinking. She wanted to argue, to push back against the suffocating expectations being placed on her. But looking at her mother’s earnest expression, she knew it was useless. Evelyn truly believed she was doing what was best for her daughter.

---

The rest of the day passed in a haze of chores and forced smiles. Mira helped her mother bake, clean, and prepare meals, all while grappling with the storm of emotions raging within her.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky turned a soft orange, Mira found herself alone in her room. She sat on her bed, staring at her hands, which still smelled faintly of herbs and flour.

Her mother’s words echoed in her mind: “Happiness comes from security.”

Mira clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. Security was important—she couldn’t deny that. But was it worth giving up her freedom? Her dreams?

She thought back to her past life, to the independence she had once taken for granted. The idea of losing that freedom, of being tied to a life she didn’t choose, filled her with dread.

But what could she do? Her father had made his decision, and her mother seemed convinced it was for the best. If she resisted, she risked alienating her family—or worse.

Taking a deep breath, Mira closed her eyes. She didn’t have all the answers yet, but one thing was clear: she couldn’t let herself be swept along by the current of others’ expectations.

Somehow, she would find a way to carve out a life that was her own.