First Time at His House

Chapter 2

After finishing her tea, Abby washed the cup and placed it carefully on the counter. The kitchen felt so quiet now, almost too quiet. She glanced at the clock—it wasn’t even noon yet.

She looked at the list again. Living room, library, rugs, and pantry—all done. She sighed, feeling a little lighter. At least the first part of her day had gone okay.

Then she heard footsteps. Her heart skipped, and she quickly straightened up, folding the list in her hands.

Mr. Edward walked in. He looked the same as before—calm but serious. His sharp eyes scanned the room, landing on her.

“Did you finish everything?” he asked, his voice even.

“Yes, sir,” Abby said, hoping she didn’t sound nervous.

He walked over to the pantry and opened the door. Abby felt her stomach tighten as he looked over the shelves. He didn’t say anything for a while, and the silence felt heavy.

Finally, he closed the door and gave a short nod. “Good work,” he said simply.

“Thank you, sir,” Abby said, letting out a quiet breath.

“There’s more to learn,” he continued. “Mrs. Rose will go over the routine with you tomorrow. For now, help her with dinner preparations.”

“Yes, sir,” Abby said quickly, eager to show she was ready to work.

Mr. Edward gave her one last look before walking out of the kitchen. His footsteps faded down the hall, leaving Abby standing there feeling a mix of relief and nerves.

A little while later, Mrs. Rose came back into the kitchen. She had an apron tied around her waist and was smiling warmly.

“Ready to help with dinner?” she asked.

“Yes, ma’am,” Abby replied, standing up straighter.

Mrs. Rose handed her a cutting board and a knife. “Start with the vegetables,” she said. “We’re making roasted chicken tonight.”

Abby nodded and got to work. She wasn’t great at cooking, but she could chop vegetables just fine. She focused on cutting them evenly, trying not to mess up.

As they worked, Mrs. Rose started chatting. “Dinner is always at seven,” she said. “Mr. Edward likes things done on time. After dinner, we clean up the kitchen, and then you’re free for the night.”

Abby nodded, listening carefully. She didn’t want to miss anything important.

“Do you like cooking?” Mrs. Rose asked after a moment.

“I don’t mind it,” Abby said honestly. “I haven’t done much, but I’m okay with simple stuff.”

Mrs. Rose chuckled. “That’s all you need to know for now. Follow directions, and you’ll be fine.”

By the time the chicken was in the oven, the vegetables were ready, and the table was set, Abby felt a little more at ease. The kitchen smelled amazing, and everything looked neat and organized.

“You did well today,” Mrs. Rose said, giving Abby a kind smile.

“Thank you,” Abby replied, feeling shy but happy.

She wiped down the counters while Mrs. Rose put the finishing touches on the food. Abby couldn’t help but feel a small sense of pride. The day had been busy and a little overwhelming, but she’d gotten through it.

When everything was ready, Abby stepped back to look at the table. It was perfect—the plates, the silverware, everything in its place. She glanced at the clock. Dinner would be served soon, and her first day was almost over.

“You’ll get the hang of things,” Mrs. Rose said, untying her apron. “It might feel like a lot now, but it’ll get easier.”

Abby nodded. “I hope so,” she said, smiling a little.

Mrs. Rose smiled back. “It will. You’re off to a good start.”

As Abby finished cleaning up, she let herself relax a little. Today had been better than she expected. She didn’t know what tomorrow would bring, but for now, she felt like she was in the right place.