At Your Service [Tommy Shelby]

A lot happens in this House

As Vivian descended the stairs, the bustling sounds of the busy kitchen grew louder, and she was greeted by a hive of activity. The place was teeming with staff, and she couldn't help but wonder just how many people worked in this grand residence. The thought of having dinner here was a mix of excitement and uncertainty. But first of all she actually has to find where she needs to go.

 She walked down some stairs, only to find some pigs hanging upside down. Vivian gives it a distasteful look, quickly retreating back upstairs.

Feeling a bit lost and overwhelmed by the constant movement of people around her, she contemplated asking someone for directions. Before she could gather the courage, though, a blonde girl called out her name. "Vivian! Over here!" The voice was friendly and inviting, cutting through the chaotic atmosphere of the kitchen.

Turning towards the source of the voice, Vivian spotted the girl standing in the middle of the bustling kitchen. She made her way over."Hi," Vivian replied with a small smile, feeling a bit relieved to have someone to guide her through the chaos.

"Hi! My name is Cathy. I guess you're looking for diner, huh?" Vivian accepts her hand and shows a shy smile. "Yeah, I am. Sorry that I am so late. It is such a huge house, I can't even count how many times I got lost today," she admitted with a hint of embarrassment. 

Cathy let out a genuine laugh, putting Vivian at ease. "Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it soon enough," she reassured, guiding Vivian down a flight of stairs on the other side of the kitchen. Oh, she thought this was just a cabinet. 

When they walk downstairs she sees a handful of maids sitting around the table. Francis notices her, stands up and knocks against her glass. "Everyone! Meet Vivian. Our newest colleague!" Francis announced, her warm smile and welcoming demeanor putting Vivian at ease. 

Warm greetings and smiles were extended to Vivian, making her feel welcomed into the close-knit group. She couldn't help but smile back at each of her new colleagues, grateful for their warm reception. 

Vivian is placed at the table and gets a plate with potato salad in front of her nose. "Eat up girl, tomorrow is a big day." Francis encouraged and she winks at Vivian.

The food on her plate surpassed anything she had tasted at home. Cooking had never been her strong suit; it was her mother who was the culinary artist. In the field hospitals, good food was a rare luxury. But this meal before her was exceptional. She savored every bite, as though trying to etch the flavors into her memory. 

Glancing around the room, she noticed the other women with their posh accents and refined manners. Clearly, they came from well-bred backgrounds, now finding themselves in the real world, taking care of themselves. Some spoke with the same Brummie accent she had heard from the brothers earlier. It made her wonder if Mister Shelby hailed from this area as well. How did he achieve his wealth? Were his parents already well-off, or had he worked his way up?

With her plate now resting beside Vivian's, Cathy eased herself into a seat and initiated a warm conversation, "Are you settling in well?"

Vivian replied, her tone tinged with a touch of uncertainty, "I think so. I hope the next few days will bring clarity about my responsibilities here."

Cathy offered reassurance, placing a comforting hand on Vivian's shoulder, "Of course it will! And the best part is, you'll be working with me!" Vivian couldn't help but smile at the unexpected delight. Cathy's genuine sweetness and sincerity were evident, and Vivian felt an immediate desire to forge a deeper connection with her new colleague.

"Oh, that reminds me!" Cathy rose from her seat, strode gracefully toward a nearby cabinet and reached for a book from the higher shelf. With care, she brought the book to the table, setting it down gently before Vivian. The cover bore an air of elegance, hinting at the secrets hidden within its pages.