Chapter 20. Peter’s Downfall

And so, Samantha shifted her gaze. If she could not enter through Rina, then she would inch her way in through the one closest to her.

With rehearsed meekness and downcast eyes, Samantha began approaching Priscilla. She offered help with her simple personal tasks, complimented her whenever the opportunity arose, and even stepped back to let Priscilla take the credit when the Head Maid praised the work of the younger maids.

At first, Priscilla had been cautious—she knew how Luna Rina had spoken in parables about Samantha that day. The sudden sweetness felt like honey hiding a sting. But Samantha never pressed, never asked for favors directly. Instead, she listened, offered small kindnesses, and bore the other’s suspicion with patient humility.

Day after day, her consistency began to wear down Priscilla’s guard. By the end of the week, the young maid started to smile at Samantha’s company. She even began confiding in her, thinking perhaps the older maid only sought c