Chapter 59
It was my first day carrying out my duties as the leader of the maids. I had barely settled into the role, and already, I could feel the weight of it.
We were all gathered in the open field for the morning assignment of tasks. The chief maidservant, Morgana, stood in front of us, her eyes scanning the crowd like a hawk searching for prey. I stood among the other maids, hoping I’d go unnoticed, but I could feel her eyes land on me, and her face immediately hardened.
"Kimberly, step out of the line and come over here!" Morgana’s voice cut through the air, sharp and irritated.
Startled, I quickly stepped forward, my heart pounding as I walked toward her. As soon as I reached her, she grabbed my arm and pulled me aside, far enough that the other maids couldn’t hear our conversation.
"What do you think you’re doing, standing with the others like that? Is this how you’re going to show leadership? Is this how you’re going to command respect?" she hissed, her voice filled with frustration.
I was taken aback. I hadn’t done anything wrong—at least, I didn’t think I had. But seeing her anger made me realize that I was expected to act differently now. I had to carry myself like a leader.
"I... I didn’t mean to disrespect the position," I stammered, trying to find the right words. "I thought—"
"Thought what?" she interrupted, her voice stern. "If you’re afraid of leading or if you can’t handle this responsibility, tell me now. Don’t waste my time."
Her eyes bored into mine, demanding an answer. But I wasn’t going to let her or anyone else think I was weak.