The steam curled lazily above the surface of the water, tendrils of warmth rising into the cool air of the massive unsweet bathroom.

Kara leaned back against the smooth porcelain rim of the bathtub, her toned arms draped over the edges,

fingers idly tracing patterns in the condensation. She sighed, the sound almost lost in the soft

hum of the mansion's silence. Another long day, she thought, her eyes drifting shut

as the heat soaked into her muscles, unraveling the tension that had coiled there since dawn.

It wasn't supposed to be this way. Success was supposed to feel like victory, not an endless climb up a mountain

with no peak in sight. The board meetings, the shareholders, the constant pressure to outperform

herself. It was exhausting. And yet, here she was alone in a house too big for one person.

Her only company, the quiet footsteps of Sapphire, her cleaning lady, who moved through the mansion like a ghost,

leaving everything spotless in her wake.

Kara opened her eyes at the faint creek of the bathroom door. Sapphire stood in her wake. Kara opened her eyes at the faint creak of the bathroom door.

Sapphire stood in the doorway. Her dark hair pulled back into a loose bun. Her uniform crisp,

despite the humidity hanging in the air. Her hands were clasped in front of her, clutching a neatly folded towel.

"'Ma'am,' Sapphire said softly, her voice carrying a tone of deference mixed with something

else, something Kara couldn't quite place.

"'I didn't realize you were still in here. I can come back later. Kara waved a hand dismissively,

droplets of water cascading from her fingertips. No, it's fine. Come in. She tilted her head,

studying the younger woman. Sapphire was always so careful, so precise in her movements,

and yet there was a quiet confidence about her that intrigued Kara. It was rare to find someone

who could navigate the opulence of the mansion without being overwhelmed by it. Sapphire stepped inside, setting the towel on the counter

before glancing at the tub. Do you need anything? More hot water, perhaps. Kara considered the question,

then smiled faintly. Actually, would you mind washing my back? I don't think I can reach properly.

...