Lovie's Arc

Chapter 1 of 3

Lovie swept the manor's east parlor, her broom moving in quick strokes across the stone floor. Dust swirled in the afternoon light streaming through tall windows. She paused and leaned on the broom handle, gazing at the gardens beyond where Lord Richard often walked. Her heart squeezed tight in her chest. She wanted to marry him, not as some polished lady might, but as herself—a servant girl who loved books and laughed too loud. The dream felt impossible most days. But she held onto it anyway, tucking it close like a secret warmth that kept her going through long shifts and aching feet. The building she worked in made her dream feel even bigger. The Romantic Dream Pavilion stood three stories tall with curved archways and balconies that overlooked rose gardens. White marble columns framed every entrance. Crystal chandeliers hung in each room, catching sunlight during the day and candlelight at night. Lord Richard hosted grand parties here every month. Ladies in silk gowns danced across polished floors while servants like Lovie carried trays and stayed invisible. She finished sweeping and walked to the window. Her reflection stared back at her in the glass—plain dress, messy hair, work-worn hands. But her eyes held something fierce. If she could win his heart here, in this beautiful place where he lived, she would do it as herself. Nothing less would matter.