Small talk with Marcus

As the sun rose on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city, Seraphine stood by the window, taking in the breathtaking view. A mixture of excitement and nervousness fluttered in her chest as she prepared to meet Marcus. Today marked the beginning of her new life in this unfamiliar world.

After ensuring she had everything she needed, Seraphine stepped out of her room to find Marcus waiting for her in the corridor. He looked dashing in his butler uniform, exuding an air of nobility that seemed almost innate.

"Are you ready?" Marcus inquired, his tone composed yet businesslike. "Our estate mansion is quite far from here. We need to depart early."

"Yes, I am ready to go now, sir," Seraphine replied, standing up straight and trying her best to exude confidence. She also did not forget to return the money she received for the dinner last night to Marcus. It seems Marcus is also content that Seraphine remembers what he ordered yesterday.

Marcus led her to a modest carriage that stood waiting outside. Together, they packed all of their belongings into the carriage, making sure everything was securely stowed.

As they settled inside the carriage, Seraphine couldn't help but notice that it was not the most comfortable or luxurious ride. It was a service carriage meant for the butler's use, and the seats were not exactly plush. For a short journey, it would have been manageable, but the prospect of enduring more than ten hours in this cramped space was daunting.

"It will take more than ten hours to arrive at our mansion," Marcus mentioned matter-of-factly. "Not too long for a carriage ride."

Though he spoke with ease, Seraphine's heart sank at the thought of such a lengthy journey. However, she concealed her unease, not wanting to appear weak or troublesome. Deep down, she was grateful for Alice's presence in her mind. The AI provided her with everything she needed to search up for which could distracting her from the discomfort of the ride.

As Seraphine observed Marcus sitting with impeccable posture and grace throughout the bumpy ride, she couldn't help but marvel at his ability to maintain such dignity in the face of discomfort. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she mustered the courage to ask him a question.

"Sir, may I have permission to ask something from you?" Seraphine addressed Marcus with utmost formality, determined to earn his respect and permission.

Marcus, intrigued by her respectful demeanor, smiled slightly and replied, "What is it that you want to ask?"

Seraphine hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to reveal her true intention. But she decided to be honest and straightforward.

"I wonder if you ever feel bored during these carriage rides, sir," she asked, her voice maintaining its formal tone.

A flicker of curiosity crossed Marcus' eyes, and he peered directly into Seraphine's gaze, sensing that her question held a deeper motive.

"I think you have a motive for asking this question, don't you? What is your true intention?" Marcus inquired, his smile transforming into a more inquisitive expression.

Unfazed by his penetrating gaze, Seraphine mustered her courage and revealed her true intention.

"Well, sir, I was wondering if I could engage in a small conversation with you during our carriage ride. Since we don't have anything else to do, it would be a pleasant way to pass the time," she explained, her sincerity evident in her voice.

Marcus, taken aback by her directness, contemplated her request for a moment. He wasn't accustomed to conversing with servants or slaves below him, but Seraphine's polite and educated manner left an impression.

"To be honest, I don't usually engage in conversation with those beneath me," Marcus began, his tone thoughtful. "However, you possess remarkable manners and seem well-educated. I shall grant your request for a small talk during our carriage ride."

Seraphine felt a surge of satisfaction upon hearing his response. She realized that her efforts to present herself as a respectful and capable individual were paying off. As the carriage continued its journey, Seraphine and Marcus engaged in a polite exchange. It was a refreshing change from the silence and solitude of the previous hours.

During their conversation, Seraphine learned more about Marcus's interests, his responsibilities as a butler, and the dynamics of the Ornstein family. Marcus, in turn, was pleasantly surprised by Seraphine's insightful remarks and her ability to hold an engaging conversation.

As the hours passed, their initial formality melted away, and a sense of camaraderie began to form between them. Seraphine felt grateful for this opportunity to connect with Marcus on a deeper level, realizing that building a rapport with him could be instrumental in navigating her new life.

As the carriage continued its journey, Seraphine and Marcus found themselves engaged in an intriguing conversation that surpassed all expectations. Seraphine's well-spoken words and insightful remarks left Marcus genuinely impressed.

"It is hard to believe that I am having such an interesting conversation with a slave. Your manner and knowledge are truly something else," Marcus admitted, a note of genuine admiration in his voice.

Seraphine felt a mixture of pride and gratitude at Marcus's compliment. "You are flattering me, Sir Marcus," she replied with a faint blush. "I'm just grateful for the opportunity to converse with someone as knowledgeable and well-spoken as you."

Marcus chuckled softly at her modest response. "Your humility is endearing, Seraphine. But let me offer you some advice for your own benefit. Our young master, Damian Ornstein, can be quite hot-tempered and not easily pleased. To navigate life in the Ornstein estate, it will be essential for you to understand his background and preferences."

Seraphine's eyes widened with interest. "Thank you, Sir Marcus. Any information you can provide about Damian and the family will truly benefit me. I want to do my best to adapt and not cause any trouble."

"Very well," Marcus began, his voice becoming more serious, "I will start with the Ornstein family background first then move on to his preference and personality."