Labels

The Bedroom door opened soundlessly, and a head peeked into the corridor.

"Maid?"

The soft call echoed down the quiet hall.

Annan looked down and found Abby sitting beside the door, leaning against the wall as she slowly woke.

"Master Annan..."

Abby swayed as she got to her feet.

"Could you bring me a drawing board?" Annan asked the bleary-eyed Abby.

"Oh."

The sleepy girl shuffled away. Annan pulled the door nearly shut and returned to the Bedroom to gather his thoughts.

Before long, Abby came into the Bedroom carrying a drawing board and easel. Annan took them and set them beside the desk.

"Thank you."

Abby was about to leave when she stopped. Her skirt fluttered lightly as she turned and asked hesitantly, "Master Annan, are you going to paint?"

"I just need to write a few things down."

Annan suddenly remembered finding her curled up beside the door.

"Were you sleeping outside?"

"I... I was so tired. I'm sorry, Master Annan."

"I'm not blaming you. Go back to your room and rest."

"Maid said a servant must always be nearby to attend to you."

"No... all right." Annan realized he did need Maid's help. He glanced at a room across the corridor from his Bedroom. "Is that a Bedroom?"

"...I don't know."

Annan thought for a moment, took an Oil Lamp from the wall, crossed the corridor, and opened the unfamiliar door.

The light reached into the room, revealing a Dressing Table and a round bed.

It was only an ordinary Guest Room, though its position opposite the master bedroom was a little strange.

"Rest here. Leave the door open."

Abby seemed to remember something. Lowering her head, she hesitantly murmured, "Mm."

Annan hung the Oil Lamp beside the door, returned to the Study, and closed the door