~ Bella’s POV

I only stared at the maids in disbelief. Just then, Marissa entered the kitchen, her presence commanding immediate attention. She assessed the situation quickly, her gaze sweeping over the agitated maids and then settling on me.

"Enough," Marissa said firmly. "She’s here to wait for her assignment, and that’s all. Let’s not make a scene."

The maids grumbled but backed off, though their eyes still held a trace of resentment. Marissa turned to me, her expression softening slightly. "I’m sorry about this. Please wait here. I’ll assign you a post and get you something to eat shortly."

After a few minutes of waiting, Marissa returned with a...