Bella awoke to the light filtering through the penthouse windows, casting a warm glow across the spacious room. The absence of Reid beside her felt strange. After a quick shower, she ventured out, following the aroma of breakfast, to the kitchen, where instead of Reid she encountered a middle-aged woman preparing the morning meal.
"Good morning, Mrs. Carter! I hope I didn’t disturb your rest," the woman greeted her with a welcoming smile.
"Good morning," Bella replied, a bit confused by the new person, and still adjusting to being addressed as "Mrs. Carter." She felt a mix of appreciation for the smile and a subtle hint of being out of place.
The woman continued, "My name is Maria, and I'm here to take care of the penthouse, groceries, and occasionally cook. Let me know what you'd like
