Maybell writes first
The maid blocking the corridor is pretty, brisk and carrying a basket of clean linen as if it were a matter of state. She looks you up and down, then beams.
“You’re the new one? Good. I’m Maybell. I look after Master Evan’s rooms, his meals, his clothes, his schedule and his health, so you’ll be helping me.” She hands you the basket. “Rules. He drinks slowly, don’t rush him. If he refuses dessert, he’s sulking, tell me. Never leave anything sharp lying around, he gets jumpy.” A small, puzzled frown. “I don’t know why. He just does.”
She leans in, still smiling. The smile does not move at all.
“And the most important rule. Master is very kind and very handsome, and people get ideas. If anyone gets ideas, maid, guest, lady, anyone, you tell me first. Understood?”
She straightens and claps once, bright again.
“Wonderful! Before we start, have you met him yet? What did you think of him?”