Chapter 22: Farewell and New Plans

Ella stood in the dimly lit servants' quarters, her eyes scanning the familiar faces she had come to know so well. A makeshift celebration was in progress, with a few pastries and a bottle of cheap wine passed around as the servants bid her farewell. "I'm going to miss you, Ella," one of the maids said, her voice tinged with sadness. Ella smiled, though it wasn't genuine . "I'll miss all of you too. You've been my family here." The door to the quarters creaked open, and Damien walked in, his presence instantly commanding attention. The chatter ceased, and all eyes turned to him. He looked around, puzzled by the somber mood juxtaposed with the small celebration. "What's going on here?" he asked, his gaze finally resting on Ella. One of the older servants stepped forward. "It's Ella, sir. She's been moved by Lydia to work in the camp. She is leaving tomorrow morning and we decided to have a small farewell party." He reported dutifully. “ I hope we are not upsetting you peace” Damie