The Heart's Content

The interior of the house exuded a quaint charm. It featured two bedrooms, a kitchen, a drawing room, and a delightful lanai. Each room was spotless, with everything in its place, almost sparkling in the light.

"Impressive." Alastor remarked, admiring the pristine cleanliness. "Not a speck of dust anywhere."

"I take it you're pleased with my work, Mr. Boudreaux?"

The young man and his sister were greeted by a petite, endearing woman holding a duster in one hand and a spray bottle in the other.

"As soon as Miss Rosie informed me of your arrival, I made sure this house would be perfect."

"Are you the maid she sent?" Alastor inquired.

"Yes, sir. I'm Niffty."

"Alastor, and this is my sister, Beth."

"Oh, isn't she just the most adorable thing!" Niffty exclaimed, playfully squeezing Beth's cheeks. "Cuter than a bug's ear!"

"Uh... thanks." Beth replied, trying to mask her irritation at the maid's gesture.

"You two must be hungry after your trip. Would you like some tea cakes?" Niffty offered, presenting a tray of freshly baked yellow cookies. "I made them myself. My mother always said the best way to welcome someone is with a treat."

"No, thank you. I don't really have a sweet tooth." Alastor said.

"I'll take one." Beth chimed in, and by one she meant five.

"I'm so grateful you'll be helping Miss Rosie this summer." Niffty continued. "Poor thing has had a rough few years and could use some good fortune."

"If I may ask, what happened to her?" Alastor inquired.

"First, her miserable, good-for-nothing husband Frank leaves her for another woman, and now that dreadful circus has moved in, trying to steal her customers and run her out of town. That Valentino is nothing but scum, I tell you—scum!"

"What's this circus like, anyway?"

"Oh, it's a disgusting display. Absolutely revolting. If I had children, I'd never let them witness such horror."

Alastor covered Beth's ears.

"Is this some kind of X-rated circus?" He asked.

"Oh no, nothing like that. It's just a show that takes people with deformities, dresses them up as mythical creatures, and parades them around for everyone to mock. But that's just my opinion. If you find this circus entertaining, that's your choice."

"Well, I wouldn't say that, but I might take a peek just to see what kind of competition I'm up against."

"In that case, his next show is the day after tomorrow. Brace yourself." She warned. "Now, Mr. Boudreaux, would you like me to help you unpack and get settled in?"

"No, that's not necessary. You've done enough." Alastor pulled out his wallet and handed Niffty a ten-dollar tip. "Thank you for taking care of the house."

"No, thank you for your generosity. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call. I love making new friends and helping people."

"I'll remember that. Have a good evening."

They bid Niffty farewell and began to settle into the house.

"Where will I sleep?" Beth asked.

"Probably my old room." Alastor replied.

"Uh-oh. I'm not going to find any taxidermy in there, am I?"

"No." He said, shaking his head. "I didn't start hunting until I was ten. You know just because I enjoy hunting and fishing doesn't mean that's all I've ever liked. I think you might actually enjoy my old room."