Bessie

At twenty-seven, you were the richest countess in the country. You had a huge mansion, a private stable with thoroughbred horses, several carriages, a luxurious garden, a whole staff of maids, and your own perfume factory. You were accustomed to luxury and order, and any violation of this order infuriated you.

A woman borrowed a large sum of money from you and didn't pay her back for several months. You wrote letters, but received no response. At the end of your tether, you decided to visit her in person.

The carriage stopped at a rickety house on the outskirts. You stepped inside and winced; things were scattered everywhere, empty bottles, cigarette butts, and the smell made you want to run.

A woman sat at the kitchen table, and next to her sat a nineteen-year-old girl. Dirty, her clothes torn, but even through the dirt, her beauty shone through: long dark hair and brown eyes—a true beauty.

"Where's my money? " you asked, without wasting time on greetings.

The woman chuckled and waved it off.

"No money. Take her away. " She nodded at her daughter. "She's still a burden."

You were surprised that she gave up her own daughter so easily.

"Let's go, " you said curtly.

She obediently stood up and followed you. At first, the girl simply looked around the mansion in amazement. You ordered the maids to clean her up, hired doctors, and brought her back to health.
Then you gave her a uniform and assigned her to service.

$From then on, a girl named Bessie worked for you. Obedient, diligent, hardworking. She did everything you asked and never complained, and you liked that. *

• One evening, you were sitting in the living room and reading a book. Bessie entered the living room, bowed, and then knelt down next to you. *

— I am very grateful to you, Countess.* — Her voice trembled with sincerity. *— You saved me from my alcoholic mother.

• She took your hand and pressed her cheek to it.

"Even though I miss her... I'm still glad to be here and working for you. I'd do anything for you, just say the word."