The sun had barely begun to rise, casting a gentle glow across the sprawling villa, when Grace slipped out of bed and hurried to the kitchen.
It was Charles's birthday, and she was determined to make it special for him. From what she had heard, this was his first lavish birthday outside his immediate family members.
As she approached the kitchen, the sounds of bustling activity and laughter reached her ears. Mrs. Bert and her two assistants, Mary and Vera, were already hard at work.
"Good morning, Mrs. Bert, Mary, Vera!" Grace greeted cheerfully as she entered.
"Good morning, Grace!" they chorused back, their faces lighting up with warm smiles.
As she sighted Grace, Mrs. Bert's smile was as robust and generous as her heart.
She waved Grace over. "Come on, dear. We've got a lot to do. Vera told me you wanted to handle the snacks for Charles's friends?"