The warm breeze rustled through the tall grass that caressed her feet as she stood by the serene lake. The gentle lapping of the water against the shore created a soothing melody that seemed to lull the world into a peaceful slumber. Vanya's hands ran over the lake's surface, watching as the fishes fled from the ripples that distorted her reflection. She smiled gently as the water settled, and she stared at her reflection. Her eyes sparkled like emeralds, green like the strength of the sun on a healthy field. Her hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, black and lustrous. Her skin glowed with a milk-like pallor, pale as the winter to come, yet radiant like the summer sky.
As she gazed at her reflection, lost in thought, a soft voice broke the silence. "Vanya? Come now, little rose, do not sit out too long in the summer sun. Besides, it's lunchtime," Theresa, her caretaker and governess, called out.
Vanya turned away from the lake, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she smiled. "I'm coming, Aunty Theresa," she replied, her voice melodious.
As she walked towards the manor, the sound of clinking dishes and muted chatter greeted her. The dining hall was filled with the warm aroma of freshly cooked food. Settled at the table were Mr. Jones, the manor's butler, Paddy, the handmaid, Mrs. Rue, the cook, and Joseph, the stable boy. Miss Theresa believed in togetherness and not ostracizing the less privileged. She believed in unity, and that was how Vanya had been raised since she was eight, when her parents never returned. Now, all these people were her family.
As Vanya took her seat, Mr. Jones, with his usual jovial demeanor, asked, "What's bothering you, Rose? You're awfully not giddy today." Vanya chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'm alright, Mr. Jones. I'm just looking forward to going to the market tomorrow with Theresa and the rest."
Mr. Jones nodded, a knowing glint in his eye. "It must be exciting to finally tag along with them. Already tired of helping this old man around the house, aye?" Vanya laughed, her cheeks dimpling. "I can never get tired of digging in the soil, Mr. Jones. I get to learn about different slithering creatures, like the earthworm."
Mr. Jones raised an eyebrow, a mock-stern expression on his face. "Alright, stop with your collection of slithering beasts, Rose. We're dining. Be more courteous, it's not ladylike." Vanya snorted in laughter, her eyes locked on Mr. Jones's stern face, before she glanced at Theresa, who was trying to stifle a smile.
Theresa sighed, her eyes filled with a mixture of amusement and exasperation. "Vanya, please, let's try to behave at the table." Vanya grinned mischievously, but composed herself, trying to be more demure.
The meal progressed, with the group engaging in light conversation. Vanya asked Mrs. Rue about the recipe for her famous scones, while Mr. Jones regaled them with stories of his youth. Joseph, the stable boy, listened intently, his eyes wide with wonder. Paddy chatted with Theresa about the upcoming market day, discussing what they would buy and what they would sell.
As they finished their meal, everyone went ahead with their day's job. Vanya, excited as always, couldn't help but dream about the next day. She had always been locked up in the house or in the carriage wherever they went. She yearned to see the world, to experience life beyond the manor's walls. She was young, but she was also an adult now. They were preparing for her nineteenth birthday, and she couldn't wait to see what the future held.
After lunch, Vanya went to the kitchen to help Mrs. Rue. She kept the woman company as she worked, listening intently as Mrs. Rue read to her from a worn leather-bound book. The stories of adventure and bravery sparked something within her, and she felt a sense of longing.
Later, Vanya visited Paddy, who was tasked with styling her hair for the day. Paddy chatted about the latest gossip from the village, while Vanya listened, her eyes sparkling with amusement. As Paddy worked her magic, Vanya couldn't help but feel grateful for these people, who had become her family over the years.
After Paddy finished styling her hair, Vanya spent the rest of the day in the library, surrounded by dusty tomes and the musty smell of old books. She read about history, science, and literature, devouring knowledge like a hungry soul. The silence of the library was a balm.
As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, Mr. Jones made his way to the library, knowing that Vanya had spent the entire day buried in books. He cleared his throat to announce his presence, and Vanya looked up, slightly startled. "Time for dinner, Vanya," he said gently.
Vanya hesitated, her eyes returning to the book in her hands. "Just five more minutes, Mr. Jones?" she pleaded. Mr. Jones chuckled and shook his head. "I'm afraid not, my dear. Theresa would have my head if I let you skip dinner. Besides, you've been reading all day. You need to take a break."
Vanya sighed and closed her book, reluctantly following Mr. Jones out of the library. As they walked, Mr. Jones spoke to her about the library. "You know, Vanya, in my thirty years of being in this manor, I haven't even covered half the books in that library. You've got a lot of time to get through them. There's no rush."
Vanya smiled, feeling a sense of wonder at the vastness of the library. "I know, Mr. Jones. It's just that I get lost in the stories. I feel like I'm a part of them."
When they reached the dining hall, Theresa was waiting with a concerned expression. "Vanya, I was starting to worry about you. You need to take care of yourself and not spend too much time alone in the library."
Vanya grinned mischievously. "I don't think I'll ever escape your cautioning, Aunty Theresa."
Mr. Jones laughed, and Theresa rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "I doubt that said Mr Jones jestly."
The group sat down to dinner, and everyone spoke about their day. Mrs. Rue talked about her cooking experiments, while Joseph regaled them with stories of the horses. Vanya listened intently, feeling grateful for the warmth and companionship of her makeshift family.
After dinner, everyone retired for the night. Theresa wished Vanya goodnight as Paddy prepared to wash her. "Sleep tight, little rose . Tomorrow's going to be a big day at the market."
In the bathroom, Paddy washed Vanya's hair, chatting about the next day's plans. "What are you most looking forward to, Vanya?" she asked, rinsing out the soap.
Vanya thought for a moment. "I want to see all the stalls and try some new foods. And I want to buy some new books. Do you think we'll be able to find any good ones?"
Paddy smiled. "I'm sure we will, dear. We'll make sure to check out the book stalls. What kind of books are you interested in?"
Vanya's eyes lit up. "I love reading about history and adventure. Maybe we'll find some new authors or stories that I haven't read before."
As Paddy finished washing her and helped her into her nightgown, Vanya felt excited for the next day's adventures. She drifted off to sleep with anticipation of her visit to the market and books and the thrill of discovery.