Chapter 5

“How does it look?” I asked as I looked at myself in the mirror. I was wearing my brand-new maid’s uniform. The maid uniforms at the Duke’s residence were the classic black and white, though mine had been neglected to the point that it no longer maintained the image. but the palace maids all sported navy blue with dark grey. The skirt stops slightly below the knee and the sleeves below the elbow for easier movement. It came with a frilly apron and an equally frilly but optional headband. Overall, it gave a cute, charming impression, and I was unsure if it suited me. “You really didn’t have to order a brand new one for me. A used one would have been perfectly fine.”

“You look adorable!” Miss Leah gushed, ignoring my complaint, and I smiled bashfully in return. I turned to look at the Princess to gauge her reaction. She had her hand on her chin and was staring daggers at me. It had been another day since I’d met the prince, and the physician had examined me again.

“Nothing seems out of the ordinary. You are cleared to start working; just start easy and don’t push yourself. Assuming nothing warrants an emergency exam. I’ll follow up with you in a week.” He had said before patting me on the head like I was one of his grandkids. Surely, not everyone in the castle is this nice… The kindness from everyone, even those I’ve only met once, like the prince, has been overwhelming. I then slept and rested for another day before finding myself in the current predicament.

“Y-Your Highness?”

“...Please put the headband on.” She suddenly exclaimed. “I bet you would look even cuter!” She reached up to put the headband on me, but I quickly dodged.

“I-I don’t think it would suit me very much,” I said shyly. I was already incredibly embarrassed and was nearly at my limit with just the mandatory items of the uniform. She shrank in disappointment at my refusal.

“You won’t even put it on for me?” she looked up at me through her lashes, giving me the biggest puppy dog eyes she could muster.

“T-That won’t work on me!” The distance between us had closed significantly over the last day. Some part of me was even a little worried someone had afflicted me with magic. But everything just feels so natural with her… Even more so after I decided to open up to them. We hadn’t done anything special either; we just had meals and chatted together amicably, getting to know each other.

“Pretty Please?” She clasped her hands together as she intensified her attack. I desperately tried to avert my gaze away from the sight, trying hard to ignore the adorable vibes she was emanating.

“Fine… just this once!” I crumpled under the pressure and snatched the headband from her, placing it on my head. I could feel my face flush as I looked back at her. “Happy?”

I found myself falling into their pace. The Princess treated Miss Leah like an older sister, and Miss Leah once said it was like having a younger sister of her own. Apparently, they both only had brothers, and it was entertaining watching them together. I was still a little awkward fitting into the dynamic, but I started to act like I did with Sasha, so it wasn’t a massive adjustment for me.

“...” She seemed a little shocked. “Yes… Excruciatingly so.”

I felt my cheeks heat up even more. How am I supposed to respond to that? Miss Leah giggled a bit as the Princess continued to stare at me in admiration.

“Alright, that's enough flirting, you two! I know you’re excited, my lady, but Audrey’s on the clock now that she’s dressed.” Miss Leah said. Lydia backed up as she realized how close she had gotten and cleared her throat. I actually feel really happy… I can’t replace Sasha, but it still feels like I have new sisters. Miss Leah definitely feels like an older sister, and while the Princess is older than I am… she acts like a younger one. I stifled that disrespectful comment before I could dwell on it, however.

“O-Of course, Leah. Teach her well; I expect her to be just as good as you are!”

“Of course, my lady.” Leah grabbed my hand and led me out of the room.

“What are we doing first?” I asked as we walked down the hallway.

“First is checking on lunch, seeing as it’s already noon, then after that, we’ll do the laundry, and then…” I was filled with trepid anticipation as Leah went over the schedule for the day. I was used to having an unreasonable workload, thanks to the Duke, so I grew accustomed to the schedule in no time at all. As we worked, Miss Leah and I chatted about all sorts of things, and I was happy to get to know her better. I had concluded she was a noble before, and Miss Leah told me she was the daughter of a viscount. She came to be the Princess’s lady-in-waiting due to an accident that had happened when they were children, and she has been attending to her ever since. She was one of only two personal attendants. Apparently, the other was a strict but kind young man (In Miss Leah’s words) named Simon, who had been attending to some business elsewhere. The day flew by quickly as Miss Leah continued to show me how to do various tasks for the Princess, including cleaning her room, organizing her books and study materials, picking out outfits for the next day, keeping track of her daily schedule, and all the little tasks in between. Before I knew it, the sun was setting, and I found myself having dinner in the Princess’s room.

“So? How was your first day?” She inquired as we enjoyed our post-meal tea.

“I think I’ll enjoy working here. Miss Leah’s a phenomenal teacher and all the servants were nice.” I did notice a few discontented stares, but Miss Leah said it was just because the position of the Princess’s attendant was highly sought after among the staff.

“Well, You’re a good student and a hard worker. I think the other servants could sense that pretty fast.” Miss Leah said as she sipped her tea. At first, I had been nervous about sharing a meal with my employer; my experience at the mansion had ingrained in me being alone. But apparently, the Princess enjoys sitting with her attendants and frequently has tea and meals with not only Miss Leah but even Sir Simon, Whom I’ve yet to meet. I even heard the entire royal family treats their attendants similarly. Miss Leah and I continued to chat about the day, going over things that I did well and things I still need to work on a bit. The Princess smiled as she listened in.

“I really don’t have many complaints. You are fastidious and have an eye for detail. All I really had to teach you were the locations of supplies and what cleaners to use on the more delicate tasks.” I wasn’t used to praise… It was a different world compared to the constant abuse I suffered before. I could feel myself squirming in embarrassment as Miss Leah spoke, but I was incredibly happy. I even felt some pride in my work for the first time.

“I only have you to thank, Miss Leah… I’ve never had anyone teach me so thoroughly and with such understanding. Even when I made a mistake, you never hit me or yelled…” I trailed off as I realized my slip. “What I mean… is that you are incredibly patient, and I appreciate it.” I tried to cover, but they were both looking at me in sadness, the atmosphere heavy. Then they looked at each other before breaking out in smiles again, and the Princess spoke.

“I’m glad you two are getting along, at least,” she said as she finished her tea. I was grateful she moved the conversation forward. A yawn slipped from her lips as she stretched upward, and she quickly covered her mouth in embarrassment.

“I think that’s our queue to take our leave,” Miss Leah said as she stood up, and I quickly followed her to clean up the tea. After helping the Princess change into her night clothes, I turned to ask her a question.

“So, what about my room? I assume I’ll be moving into the servant's quarters now?” I asked. The Princess tilted her head in confusion.

“Why would you?”

“Because I’m your maid now?” I asked back.

“Oh, you seem to be misunderstanding. You aren’t my maid; you are my lady-in-waiting, just like Leah. As such, you’ll stay in the room next to mine as you have been. Leah’s room is actually next to mine on the other side as well.”

“I… don’t think I understand the difference, Your Highness.”

She hummed in thought for a minute before answering. “I guess the best way to explain it would be like this. Maids have a broader set of responsibilities and report to the head maid.” she quickly clarified. “Oh, but the position of “head maid” is typically held by the queen’s best lady-in-waiting; this allows the queen to make changes to the castle as she sees fit. Anyway, maids are responsible for general upkeep and cleaning of the castle and typically support the ladies-in-waiting when needed.” She stopped to make sure I was following along. “Now, what you will be is my lady-in-waiting. This is a unique position related to the women of the royal family. These are typically daughters of the nobility who want a more in-depth education regarding things like management and fashion in order to support their houses or future spouses. Lady-in-waiting is a higher position than maid. Leah, for example, is the daughter of Viscount Relford, and by being my lady-in-waiting, she has to coordinate with the maids to ensure my daily needs and schedule are met. This experience is similar to running a household, and by being in close proximity to me or my mother, she has access to people who can help guide her should she need it.” An exaggerated sigh escaped her mouth. “For some reason, though, ladies-in-waiting rarely leave of their own volition, and at this rate, I fear Leah will never marry…” I heard Leah squeak behind me at the comment, and she turned around.

Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

“I told you before, my lady. I plan I serve you till my last breath, a husband would only get in the way.” The response was very Leah-like, and I stifled a laugh. Then, I finally understood what the Princess was saying.

“You made me a lady-in-waiting?!” my voice was incredulous. As far as they were aware, I was a commoner. A vagrant at that. How could they give me the same position as Miss Leah?

“I may have fudged your profile a little when I sent in the paperwork… but I’m confident it won’t be a problem. I have a hunch your proper information will be acceptable, and I’ll just update it when the time comes.” The princess smiled and stuck her tongue out a bit. She isn’t wrong, necessarily… I am the daughter of a Duke, even if my family pretends otherwise. But it’s still incredibly reckless to lie like that! I was about to object again when Miss Leah cut in this time.

“Just accept it. Once my lady makes up her mind, there’s no recourse. Besides, it’s an attendant's duty to be available at all times for their master. Think of it as a part of the job.”

“I… understand,” I resigned. “It will be comforting to still be together, at least.”

“Yes, it should be entertai— I mean, It should make things easier with two people. Up until now, I was doing nearly everything myself,” Leah said. Uh… Miss Leah?

“I hope you two will continue to take good care of me. Let’s have plenty of fun together!” The Princess said as she took my and Leah’s hands in hers. We laughed a bit more together before retiring to our respective rooms for the night. As I changed out of my uniform, I realized I had been wearing the headband all day. I hung up my uniform and sat down on the bed, turning the headband over in my hands.

“I guess I can wear it occasionally… since she likes it so much…” I smiled as I placed it on my nightstand. Sleep came fast, my chest warmed by my new environment. I already knew there would be no nightmares tonight.

***

It’s been nearly a week since I started working as a lady-in-waiting. I adapted quickly to the work, and Leah has started to entrust me with tasks on my own. Every day has been filled with so much light that my time locked in that dark room feels like a distant memory. It has only made me confident that my decision to stay was the correct one. The Princess hasn’t changed, and if anything, has only treated me more like family. I haven’t even seen her raise her voice, not even when I accidentally broke a vase in her room while cleaning. Being accepted so willingly has me feeling guilty that I still haven’t told them of my circumstances.

“Audrey, I’m going to take the dishware back to the kitchen. Will you pick out the jewelry for the Lady’s next appointment?”

“Of course, Miss Leah. Be safe!” I waved as she pushed the food cart out of the room. Being involved in Princess’s daily routine showed me how busy she truly is. She takes lessons from morning till noon, ranging from etiquette to agriculture. In the afternoon, she attends various meetings, taking diligent notes and brainstorming solutions to problems that arise. She then passes those ideas onto the Crown Prince since they wouldn’t be taken seriously if she proposed them directly. Society still hasn’t fully accepted women in positions of power, but that is something the Princess is striving to change. In the evening, she takes a short break before self-studying and spending time on hobbies.

“How about this?” I held an elegant sapphire necklace to her collarbone from behind. The Princess was wearing a blue and silver color scheme today, so I thought It would pair well.

“Yes, it looks lovely; there’s a matching set of earrings as well, correct?”

“There is.” I clasped the necklace on before doing the same for the earrings. “All done! You look amazing as usual.” A small blush crept up her cheeks as she looked at me through the mirror.

“It’s all thanks to you and Leah. I could never do all this by myself.”

I sighed. “But I still can’t do your hair right.”

She giggled. “It just takes time and practice. Leah has been doing my hair for over ten years, after all. But I’m sure you’ll have it down in no time.” For some reason, I struggle to do her hair up in all the fancy styles that are required of a royal Princess. The Princess and Leah are kind enough to let me practice nearly every night, but I still haven’t been able to get anywhere close to what Leah can do. It reminds me of the few times I had been able to style Sasha’s hair when I was younger.

“I hope she’s doing alright…” I mumbled to myself as Lydia stood up to leave.

“Who… are you talking about?” The Princess asked.

“Oh, um, it’s nothing, sorry. Let me put a bit of blush on before we leave.” hurriedly changing the subject, I patted the brush against her face. The Princess wasn’t convinced, and I appreciated her willingness to let it go. I want to tell her… There just hasn’t been a good time yet…

Miss Leah arrived and did a final check of the Princess’s outfit and makeup, giving it full marks before we set off down the hallway. We were headed out to one of the many expansive gardens within the castle for a tea party. The Princess had some social obligations to fulfill after being away all summer. The three of us chatted on the way through the castle; I still found myself awed at the ornate artwork on the walls depicting various landscapes or victorious battle scenes from the founding of the Kingdom of Venyth. There was even a hallway that depicted portraits of every ruler since the founding Hero-King. I was brought out of my daydreams by a voice.

“Your Highness. It’s a nice coincidence to run into you.” It was Him.

“Same to you, Duke Rose. How is your wife? I haven’t seen her since I returned.” The Princess replied.

“Thank you for your concern! She dearly wishes to sit down with you for some tea one of these days. You still haven’t found yourself a husband yet? What a shame.”

“I’ve been busy, you see, and I’m preparing for my last year at the academy. I don’t have time for such matters.”

I couldn’t even focus on their conversation or their thinly veiled insults. I had only seen the man a dozen times in my life, and most of that was while my mother was alive. My father was standing in front of me, and I was absolutely terrified. My body was frozen in terror, my mouth dry and numb. The cold sweat on my body sapped any and all traces of warmth from my skin.

After they finished their verbal bout, his eyes finally wandered over Leah and me. Our eyes met briefly before the shock of it sent my head down, and I stared at the floor. The shaking of my body was surely obvious. The silence dragged on, and I felt like I was going to faint. My father, Duke Rose, was staring at me; his gaze was boring a hole into me… my thoughts were in a panic. What if he recognizes me?! Will he take me away? I-I won’t survive going back to that horrid mansion… The thoughts of what my stepmother and the other servants would do to me were too much to bear. My father had never laid hands on me himself, but that was only because he forgot my existence most of the time.

“Is something the matter, Duke?” The Princess’s voice cut through the tension like a knife and drew my father’s attention back towards her.

“It’s nothing, Your Highness. Your mention of the academy just reminded me that my daughter will be starting this year. If you find the time, I hope you’ll show her around.”

“If I get the chance. I’m sure she’s a lovely girl.”

“She is… My eldest daughter’s death affected her the most. I’m sure it would be a great comfort to her to have someone as… reliable as you around.”

With that, he said a quick goodbye before continuing past us down the hall. I felt his eyes on me one last time before he disappeared. I couldn’t think of anything, his final words replaying in my head. Sasha… Of course, she’d be affected. But even enough for Father to notice? Perhaps my perception was biased since he never acknowledged me. No, it’s perfectly normal for a Father to pay attention to his daughter like that. I was just an unwanted exception.

“Audrey? Are you alright?” The Princess’s voice made me gasp; I hadn’t even realized I stopped breathing.

“S-Sorry! Yes, I am.” My voice was shaking, and both Leah and the Princess’s eyes swam with concern.

“You look horrible. Do you not feel well?”

“I’m totally fine! I promise! We better hurry, or you’ll be late for the tea party.” I walked ahead briskly. My body was still shaking from the encounter, but I had a job to do.

“Ah!” A scream punctuated by a shattered teacup filled the air.

“I-I’m so sorry, my lady! Let me clean that up.” I dabbed at the skirt of one of the tea party guests with a handkerchief.

“Enough! This was one of my favorite dresses, and now it’s ruined!” The lady was red-faced, with tears in her eyes. Miss Leah quickly came over to assist me, and all I could do was apologize again.

“I apologize for my attendant's mistake. It seems she isn’t feeling well, so I hope you’ll find it in your heart to forgive her.” The Princess’s words themselves hurt the most as she played damage control. “Audrey, come over here, Leah can finish cleaning.” I walked around the table and stopped in front of her seat; the other ladies around the table watched in eerie silence, probably wondering what she was going to do. I hadn’t been able to calm down since the encounter with my father. The terror was still lingering. Even still… I can’t believe I was shaking so much I couldn’t even hold a teacup properly.

“My goodness! You’re so pallid. And you feel cold to the touch! Head back to your room and rest for a while. Okay?” The Princess had touched my face and forehead to feel my temperature, but I was so ashamed I couldn’t even get nervous about it. The walk back to my room was agonizing. I felt shame at myself for embarrassing the princess and for fear of meeting my father again. My thoughts whirled in every direction as I closed my bedroom door and sat down against it. Most of all, I was angry at myself.

I stayed like that for a while until the Princess knocked on my door.

“Audrey? Is everything alright? Can I come in?”

“Your Highness…” I reached for the handle before stopping myself. Some part of me instinctually wanted to let her in, but I couldn’t. I’m still lying to them, taking advantage of their kindness… and I embarrassed her in public. That’s how I repay her? My hand hit the ground. “I’m sorry, I’d like to be alone for now…”

There was a beat of silence from the other side before a quiet “Okay if that’s what you want… I’ll check in later.” I listened to her footsteps down the hall, the echo of my last conversation with Sasha flashing in my head.

“I haven’t changed at all…”