Chapter 24: Touring around the castle

*Jane*

I watched as Mara excitedly moved forward to stand next to me.

"What's with this energetic demeanor?" I inquired, with my eyes on her.

"Nothing much, just thrilled to show you around," she responded, almost immediately.

Upon hearing her words, I couldn't help but feel curious. With my gaze fixed on her, I asked, "Have you never given a tour before?"

Her enthusiasm and constant clinging to me raised suspicions about whether I was the first person she would be touring around the castle to.

Her next words confirmed my suspicions. "Um, not really. My tasks in the castle before your arrival were minor cleanings and such. But a day before you arrived, Sir Zeeb surprised me by saying I would be your personal maid."

"Oh," I glanced at her, feeling somewhat uneasy, with questions swirling within me.

She changed the subject and hurried over to the shoe section. I watched as she selected a pair of flat slippers and brought them over to me.

"Here, put these on," she said, bending down to f