Chapter 21 - Twenty One
A delicious aroma, sweet and buttery, filled Suzy’s nostrils as she stirred awake. Memories of fluffy pancakes, bathed in golden maple syrup, flooded her mind. A smile tugged at her lips as she remembered the patient afternoon she’d spent teaching Doris the intricacies of her favorite breakfast treat.
"Doris?" she called out softly, her voice still thick with sleep. "Is that you?"
A gentle voice drifted in from the bathroom. "Good morning, Milady! Just getting your bath prepared. The water will be perfect in a few moments."
Suzy stretched luxuriously, the sound of running water a soothing melody. Having Doris here made everything feel a little brighter, a little less daunting. The castle was starting to feel like a home, albeit a rather grand and imposing one.
Slipping out of bed, Suzy padded over to the window, the crisp morning air a welcome contrast to the warmth of the bedchamber. Sunlight streamed through the ornate windows, illuminating a neatly laid-out outfit on a nearby chair. A simple yet elegant gown, in a soft blue that compliments her eyes perfectly, shimmered in the light.
"Doris, this is lovely!" Suzy called out, a genuine smile gracing her lips. Having someone anticipate her needs, choose her clothes – it was a level of pampering she’d never experienced before. It felt a little strange, yet undeniably delightful.
The bathroom door creaked open, revealing Doris with a warm smile and a steaming towel in hand. "I thought you might like this, Milady," she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Blue looked so good on you, I couldn’t resist finding a similar gown."
Suzy laughed, a sound that echoed happily through the room. "But I must admit, I do love this color."
Suzy, refreshed by the warm bath, slipped into the gown, the soft fabric caressing her skin. The anticipation of a deliciously comforting breakfast, prepared with love, perked her up even further.
Moments later, Doris entered the room, the sight of fluffy pancakes piled high on a plate making her mouth water. A steaming cup of tea sat beside them, along with a small bowl of fresh berries.
"You shouldn’t have gone to all this trouble, Doris," Suzy said, pretending to scold her. But her eyes sparkled with delight.