When they approached the servants' house, the sun was already setting behind the forest, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Its rays penetrated through the dense tree branches, creating a play of light and shadows.

Maria stepped out of the car and, admiring the landscape of the autumn forest at sunset, felt her body relax. All the worries of the day left her, replaced by tranquility and calmness. She closed her eyes and inhaled the scent of moist soil lingering in the cool air. She stood like that for a few moments until she felt someone approaching.

She opened her eyes and saw Matthew in front of her, illuminated by the sunset. His relaxed posture spoke of tranquility, and his soft gaze fixed on her, along with the smile playing on his lips, created an atmosphere of warmth and trust.

Realizing that she was looking at him as a man for the first time, she thought that his handsome features, manners, and masculine actions would undoubtedly touch any woman's heart. With these thoughts, she also smiled softly in response.

Running her hand through her light curly hair, he spoke with a soft, calm voice, "I'll help with the luggage," and took the suitcases towards the entrance.

Opening the door to the room, Maria found her neighbor Isabella there. She was a short young girl, approximately the same age as Maria, maybe a bit younger. She had black, thick hair braided into two neat braids, adding charm to her appearance. Her brown eyes sparkled with playful fire, revealing vivacity and curiosity.

Isabella warmly and amiably smiled at Maria, but when Matthew entered the room, her pupils dilated, and a light blush appeared on her face.

"Hi!" the girl said with joyful excitement, not taking her eyes off Matthew as she ran up to him. "How are you?"

Matthew looked at her tenderly, his eyes revealing affection and care. With a soft smile on his face, he replied, "Thank you, I'm fine. How about you? Long time no see."

Ignoring Maria, the girl began recounting the events that had happened to her in recent days. She spoke so quickly and excitedly that if Matthew wanted to say a word, he wouldn't have succeeded. All he could do was listen attentively and nod.

Some more time passed until she stopped her monologue and fell silent. Isabella didn't know what else to tell him, and a pause hung between them. Taking advantage of it, the young man smiled at her, took the suitcases, and carried them to Maria's bed.

Watching the girl from the side, a light smile appeared on Maria's face. She found the girl's behavior very charming. Slightly shaking her head, she decided to break the silence.

"Hi, I'm Maria. Your new neighbor," Maria said, extending her hand.

Finally tearing her gaze away from the young man, Isabella looked at the girl. "Oh, sorry, I'm Isabella. Nice to meet you," she said with a sincere smile, shaking her hand.

Turning her head towards Matthew, Maria said, "Thanks to you for all your help," and nodded slightly, indicating that he could go.

"Happy to help," he replied, giving her a friendly smile. "Good night, ladies." With these words, he left the room.