The New Servant

Lefou had never looked more nervous in his life than he did at the front of the church that spring day. Ariane had braided flowers into her hair, and she did indeed look beautiful in that dress. Perhaps it goes without saying that her sisters, Marianne and Marie-Ange, were her bridesmaids.

I never thought I would ever see Lefou get married. He's a nice enough man, but most ladies were unwilling to give him so much as the time of day. I also never thought I'd see the day when any of the triplets would love a man who wasn't Gaston. However, Lefou and his bride seemed very happy, so I was sure they would have a good life together.

My thoughts turned to my own life. I wondered if I would have a wedding someday. Would I blush or smile as I walked into the church? Could I truly allow myself to be kissed in front of everyone? Would I marry a man I loved, or would my parents arrange a marriage for me? Would I ever bring children into the world? Would I have what it takes to be a good wife and mother?

When we returned home from the wedding, Tante Yvette had some startling news.

"I know good and well our family isn't making enough money and how much debt we've acquired," she began, "so you'll have to start taking in boarders."

"We don't have enough room," Papa argued.

"You will now," my aunt replied. "You can use my room. I spoke with Marcel, and he agreed to let me stay with him."

"I have been invited to stay at the castle," I lied.

My heart was pounding. Their Majesties would probably allow me to stay at the castle for a few days, a month at the most, while I tried to find my own place to live, but where would I go? Would I end up dying penniless in the street? Would I have to wander to a far off kingdom and never see my family again? I wanted to help my family earn more money by moving out so they could have more boarders, but what would happen to me?

I knew I was crying as I walked to the castle the next day. It had been a pleasure to work there daily or visit for a short time, but when I left home that morning, I knew I would never return. I felt sick with dread. What if I wouldn't be allowed to stay for even a few days? I'd have to spend the night in the forest, praying the wolves wouldn't kill me or that I didn't accidentally wander to the Beast's kingdom.

Summoning up all my courage, I knocked on the West Wing door. King Adam seemed surprised to see me, but he graciously invited me to come inside and have a seat.

"What can I do for you?" he asked kindly.

"Votre Majesté," I began, "there were too many people in our home, so my family decided to start taking in boarders. I volunteered to leave to make more room, and if it isn't too much trouble, could I stay at the castle until I can find my own home?"

He looked as if he were trying to hide a smile. "Do you like it here?"

"Very much, Votre Altesse," I replied. "The castle is so beautiful, and the other servants are kind to me."

"And you like your job?"

"I always have loved sewing," I responded.

He nodded. "I shall see what I can do."

Bowing, I thanked him and graciously took my leave. I didn't know what he was planning, but I was sure he could help. During the evening meal, he lightly clinked his glass with his fork for silence.

"As you all know," he began, "Elise has been visiting us and working a few hours each day. I'm sure we've all enjoyed her company, but as of now, she will no longer be our guest."

The queen frowned. "Why not, Adam?"

He smiled at her. "You see, Belle, as of now, she is our new servant."

For a moment, I was frightened. Unlike someone who volunteers to work a certain amount of time in exchange for pay, a servant is under a master's complete authority. A servant could be beaten or imprisoned, not to mention overworked for very little pay. Masters were not required to provide servants with so much as their next meal.

I immediately felt ashamed of myself. Queen Belle and King Adam would never do such a thing to their servants. Why had I been afraid?

"You're one of us now!" Maestro Fife commented.

"Get out while you still can," joked Webster.

King Adam smiled as he raised his glass. "Here's to our new servant, a welcome addition to the castle, and here's to those who already serve us faithfully."

I managed to smile back. "Votre santé, maître."