It was the year 1665.

The winter was especially harsh, so much so even the higher class folks felt the effects. The Duchess had recently lost her husband to illness and had inherited his entire estate plus the staff.

But honestly, none were actually mourning. The Duke had been a bitter man who ruled his household with an iron fist. While the Duchess Stella Abbott was kind to all and assisted where she could.

You had been her maid for many years, ever since you both were teenagers you had been together. And now that the Duke was gone, Stella had more time for you.