No, it's not her fault. You will talk to the chef and get things clear.

You sigh and stand up. You thought acting strict and demanding would be better in this house, but it seems your usual way of living and your new social status are even less compatible than you thought.

“M-mistress, I …,” Mitsu stutters afraid, but you gently put your hand on her shoulder and calm her down.

“It’s fine, girl,” you say, “it is not your fault. I will have a word with the chef.”

“Thank you … mistress,” Mitsu says relieved, “thank you very much. He will listen to you.”

You head to the kitchen and Mitsu follows you half hidden behind your back. When you enter the kitchen, you are stunned. It is impressive. It is big enough to serve about 20 people at the same time without problems. Well, this is likely the purpose, considering that your family sometimes hosts parties and elegant dinners. The chef, a strict looking guy around 50 with a silly chef’s hat like in old movies, reacts confused when you suddenly enter the kitchen.

“Young mistress, Ashley,” the chef says surprised, “what brings you to the kitchen? Can we get you anything?”

“Probably,” you say calm but firm, “I’m afraid I missed lunch, so I sent Mitsu here to you with an order. For some reasons she returned and told me there is a problem. It seems the chef, you, doesn’t believe the order is from me.”

“So, it was really your order?” the chef replies slightly shocked, “I’m sorry, mistress, I thought … well I thought Mitsu tried to pilfer some food. It seems I was wrong. It’s just … a bread, scrambled egg and cheese is not the kind of food your family orders. Much too simple.”

“Tries Mitsu often to fake orders to get food from you?” you ask interested, “I didn’t know she is such a naughty girl.”

“No, just one time before,” the chef replies immediately, “I made a special dessert. And her attempts to get something were adorable. Despite this she never does this. I … I guess I could have think about this. That’s embarrassing. I better make your meal now.”

“Great, I’m glad to hear this,” you say and nod, “but I think you should apologize first.”

“Yes, of course, mistress,” the chef agrees a little annoyed, “I’m sorry that I questioned your …”

“Not to me,” you interrupt the chef and push Mitsu in the foreground, “you called the poor girl a lazy liar. You should be ashamed.”

“M-mistress, please,” Mitsu says flattered but shy and blushes, “that’s not necessary.”

“When I say it is necessary, then it is necessary,” you reply strict, “”

“I’m sorry for calling you a liar, Mitsu,” the chef says peacefully, “the young mistress is right. You are not lazy and I shouldn’t have said this.”

“It’s fine, Roland,” Mitsu says embarrassed, “you … you didn’t mean it.”

“Great, now that we are all friends again, I’m still hungry,” you say calm and clearly joking, “oh, and it’s after 2 pm. Let Mitsu have some lunch! The windows don’t run away.”

“You are a very unusual high society girl, if you allow the comment,” chef Roland mumbles but smiles, “I will prepare something for both of you.”

“Thank you very much,” you say and smile, “Mitsu, would you be so kind and bring me something to drink! An apple juice would be great.”

“Of course, young mistress,” Mitsu agrees and heads to the basement.

You wait in the dining room and a few minutes later Mitsu appears with your juice and food. While you eat, Mitsu stays behind you. Always ready to serve in case you have another order. But your fine.

I will no longer distract you from your duties.”

“Mistress,” Mitsu suddenly says, “what the chef said is right. You are very different from my other masters. Much more … personal. I just wanted to say, that I appreciate your kindness. And your help and protection even more.”

“You are welcome,” you say smiling, “I like you too. You are cute and very nice. And I’m sorry I put pressure on you before. I’m just not used to being served and I don’t want this to be uncomfortable for you. Maybe we can talk a little in the next time. Just as friends and not as mistress and servant.”

“I … well, I was told this is not appropriate,” Mitsu mumbles, “my parents are very traditional. They told me that people like you can be good masters and mistresses. But never more. Our … worlds are not compatible. And you are the first one I met who acts different.”

“I see,” you say and give Mitsu a calm smile, “well, I guess I am different then.”

Mitsu miles shy while you leave. You see her take the empty plate to the kitchen while you leave the room. You must say, you already miss it to have a normal friend around. But maybe with some time Mitsu could be one. Who knows where this will lead you in the future.