The maid quarters are tucked in the west wing of the mansion, kind of isolated, silent and almost forgotten. Amanda's room was simple, her bed was comfy,a wardrobe, and a window that looked out into the forest beyond the estate walls.
Just as she set down her small bag, a soft knock came on the door.
It was Clara , the head maid- a woman in her late forties, with a stern eye and with a calm voice, very calm that it can rarely rose above a whisper.
"I assume Mr Adrian have addressed you," Clara said as she entered the house without an invitation." Now it is time for mine, there are rules you are meant to abide to in this mansion and if any of them are broken you will be sacked not only will you be sacked but you will disappear from the surface of this earth, so you are to abide by the rules," Clara said in a cold manner.
Amanda didn't flinch.
" One: Never enter the East wing. It is locked for a reason and if you find it open, turn around and leave, on no account should you go in there."
" Two: The master's study is off limits, If you are summoned, go . Otherwise,avoid it."
"Three: Lights out in the servant quarters by 10 pm sharp , No wandering at night, Never,"
"Four: Don't ask questions. Even if something feels… off."
Amanda nodded, but her mind clung to every word.
"And lastly," Clara said, her voice dropping, "If you hear piano music at night, do not follow it."
Amanda blinked. "Piano music?"
Clara didn't answer. She only stepped back to the door. "Unpack quickly. Dinner is served at 7. Don't be late."
As the door closed, Amanda sat on the bed slowly. The air in the room seemed colder now. More still.
She had come to this mansion with secrets of her own.
But this house — it had its own darkness.
And it was watching her.