Chapter 4 - The Sound of Shattered GlassThe internal swinging door connecting the service kitchen to the grand dining hall suddenly burst open. Warm, golden light spilled across the cracked tiles like a physical insult, carrying the sharp scent of roasted poultry and expensive wine.
Prudence glided into the dim space, draped in a shimmering silk gown, her face caked in flawless makeup and crowned by that familiar, vicious smirk. She balanced a silver platter stacked high with roasted chicken intended for her high-society guests.
"Don’t even think about touching the guests’ food," Prudence snapped casually, her tone dripping with the casual cruelty one might reserve for a stray animal. "You two can eat later. If there’s anything left."
Sarah lowered her head in immediate, terrified submission, while Jamie instinctively tightened his small fingers around the chipped plate of sour rice.
Something inside my soul fractured and turned black.
I let go of the heavy box of gifts and the luxury chocolates I had carried across continents. The package crashed violently against the concrete floor, tearing open and scattering glittering gold toys and sweet confections across the filth.
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Prudence spun around, her eyes widening in sheer terror as the silver tray trembled violently in her hands.
Behind her, framed by the doorway, stood Gertrude.
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