Prologue
She scowled at the stubborn stain; it wasn’t budging! She didn’t even want to think about what made it. Hearing the front door open, she jumped up, narrowly missing the bucket of soapy water. She grabbed it, storing it in a cupboard before skidding to the front hall. She straightened her back… and her face. “Good afternoon, Sir,” she greeted how he had taught her.
“What were you doing?” he frowned at her, she knew she was supposed to be by the door to greet him, the stain had made her lose track of time.
“I’m sorry, I was doing my chores, Sir.”
“You haven’t finished?” a growl rumbled in his voice.
Her back heated in fear, she swallowed nervously, “Nearly, Sir. I’m really sorry, Sir.”
“You should know better.” He reached into his pocket and pain exploded over her wrists, she cried out. He hadn’t used it in so long she’d forgotten the pain. It burnt, flaming up her arms in agony.
“I’m so sorry, Sir. I really didn’t- please, Sir,” she begged, wanting the pain over, wanting his finger off the button she knew was in his pocket. “I’ll be good!” she pleaded. She’d do anything.
By the time the pain stopped, she was on the floor sobbing, tears flowing into her dress.
“Don’t do it again. You are to be by this door when I return home.”
“Y-yes, Sir,” she sobbed, cradling her wrists to her stomach.
He stooped near her, his fingers sliding into her golden hair. “If you were a good girl, I wouldn’t need to punish you, hmm?”
“Y-yes, Sir,” she mumbled, trying to wipe her tears away. He didn’t like her tears. Didn’t really like her making much noise.
“Finish your chores then get to the library. We’ll be having guests tonight.”
“Yes, Sir.”
WTH?!
I'm hoping there's a reason?