In a corner of Master Zhao's estate, beside the servants' quarters garden, stood a uniquely decorated five-story Western-style house.
Its structure formed a square around an open courtyard. Outside lay a lush green lawn, while a spacious atrium occupied the center, where many people lived.
Though it was not as imposing as the main building, it was still one of the few luxurious places in the entire settlement.
Everyone in the household called it the "annex."
Those who lived here were all honored guests of the master's estate. Unless one was a confidant, a confidant's family member, or a servant specifically assigned to attend them, no one was allowed anywhere near this place.
That was why, even though the annex stood in a secluded corner far from the main building, a great many servants still waited on its residents hand and foot.
Little Lamb had been born here.
The people here had always treated her kindly, especially after her grandfather, grandmother, and mother had died of illness. Their kindness had risen to the level of warmth—even solicitousness.
The master in particular treated her like his own daughter. Besides showing her meticulous care, he allowed her to study and play with the young lady, and even wear the same beautiful dresses.
More than that, he granted her a "privilege" none of the other children had—the freedom to leave the annex.
As long as she remained within the estate, she could go anywhere she wanted.
If it were any other child, even stepping into the garden outside the annex would get them taken back by a servant who spotted them.
Of course, in exchange for that freedom, there would always be one or two silent uncles following behind her wherever she went.
They even stood guard outside when she used the bathroom.