Chapter 19
+25 BONUS
Kamrynn’s POV
Tiona leads me down a hallway and stops in front of a door. This is your room, Kamrynn,” she says, opening the door with a small smile.
As I step inside, my jaw nearly drops. The room is enormous, with soft blue walls, polished wood floors, and delicate furnishings that seem more fitting for a guest than maid. The bed is covered in a plush quilt, and a tall window lets in golden afternoon light that bathes the room in warmth. There’s even a little sitting area with a small bookshelf and a chair in the corner,
I turn to Tiona, still unable to believe it. “Is… is this really my room?”
Tiona chuckles, shaking her head at my reaction. “Yes, dear, it’s yours. The Luna herself had it prepared for you.”
A surge of gratitude fills me, and I bite my lip, trying to hold back tears. “Imonica…” I murmur softly, mostly to myself. She’s done so much for me already, more than I ever could have expected. “Thank you, Tiona. And please, thank the Luna for me.”
Tiona smiles. “I’ll pass along the message. For now, though, you should get settled in. Take a shower, change into some fresh clothes. There are new ones in the closet for you.” She pauses, then adds warmly, “Welcome to the Blue Bell Palace.”
I nod, my heart swelling with gratitude as she leaves the room. The door closes softly behind her, and I stand there for a moment, still absorbing it all. I let my hand brush across the quilt, marveling at how soft and luxurious it feels. A place like this is a world away from the cramped cell I left behind.
In the bathroom, I turn on the shower and step under the hot water, feeling it cascade over me like a blessing. It’s the first truly comforting shower I’ve had in what feels like forever. Back in prison, we were only given a small pail of freezing water every other day. Even the baths at the hospital were functional, not indulgent like this one. I scrub myself thoroughly, feeling layers of grime and fatigue wash away, then step out and towel myself dry. When I open the closet, I find a simple but lovely dress–soft, comfortable, and tailored just right. As I slip it on, I feel more like myself than I have in a long time.
Sitting on the edge of the bed, I think about Rmonica. She’s been so kind to me, so open. And yet, that scene 1 witnessed with Eloane earlier… it bothers me. I’ve seen firsthand how much Rmonica gives of herself, how tirelessly she puts others first. To watch someone speak to her with such cruelty–it’s something I can’t ignore, even though I know I shouldn’t pry. I have no right to intrude on her personal affairs, especially with my status as a maid but I can’t help but worry about her.
Just as I’m lost in thought, a soft knock sounds at the door.
“Come in,” I say, standing up quickly.
The door opens, and there she is Rmonica, smiling warmly as she steps into the room. Relief washes over me as I see her.
“Kamrynn,” she says, looking me over. “You look beautiful in that dress. It suits you well.”
I bow quickly, trying to show her just how grateful I am. “Thank you, Luna,” I say softly, my heart swelling with emotion. “And… Thank you for all the kindness you’ve shown me, everything. I don’t know how to repay you. I’m so grateful, truly.”
Rmonica raises an eyebrow and shakes her head with a soft chuckle. “Oh, none of that, Kamrynn. I don’t want to hear ‘Luna‘ from you. And there’s no need for formalities between us, we’re friends, aren’t we?” She steps closer, her gaze warm and playful. “I told you, it’s Rmonica to you. Just Rmonica.”
+25 BONUS
Chapter 19
I can’t help but smile, feeling a weight lift from my shoulders. “Thank you… Rmonica,” I say, letting her name linger, and feeling a little lighter just saying it.
I smile shyly, smoothing down the fabric of my dress. “Thank you for… all of this,” I gesture around the room. It’s more than I could have ever asked for.”
Rmonica waves her hand dismissively. “You deserve it. I just wanted to make sure you’re comfortable here.” Her expression softens as she studies me. “I hope you’re settling in nicely. Do you need anything?”
“No, not at all,” I assure her, shaking my head. “Everything is perfect. I… I feel really grateful.”
“I’m glad,” she says with a smile. “You’ll start work officially tomorrow. Tiona will give you your schedule. And. the maids take turns cooking for the palace staff, so when dinner is ready, someone will come to call you down.
“Thank you,
Rmonica. Really.” I hesitate as she turns to leave, feeling a nagging need to speak. “Wait… there’s something I wanted to ask.”
Cha
