~Changes made. I'm making each chapter into two parts for this story. Tell me if I should add or take out anything.~

The Monday, early morning light pierced through the glass windows, waking up Sophia. I will never be used to wake up like this. The bright sunshine coming from outside showed the early days of August. She opened up her tired eyes and saw Maria setting out her outfit for the day.

Maria, Sophia's maid, brushed her long, dark hair out of her eyes showing her pale skin. Always being at Sophia's aid showed the obedience of a personal maid.

She glanced at Sophia and smiled, “Good morning, Miss.” Maria was laying out Sophia's baby- blue muslin over the tan couch. Sophia lifted herself up and saw the gown. One of my favorites.

The room, itself, had Sophia's large white bed, the fireplace, which kept her warm at night through the harsh winters. Painting's from her deceased mother, the light brown couch and the black dressers.

Her mother, Lady Selwood had died within minutes giving birth to Sophia. She tried to have a son for the heir of the Selwood family, but that never happened.

Sophia pulled herself out of the four-poster bed and walked over to the windows. “It looks like it'll be a nice day, Maria.” She glanced at Maria and back. “A glorious day at that.”

Maria turned around from the dress, “Miss, you have to get ready for your visitor.”

“Who is it, Maria?”

“A Mr. Kingsford.”

Oh, our family lawyer. The unspoken thought came with Sophia smiling at Maria and asking for the white corset. “The corset, Maria.”

“Of course.” Maria went to the drawers and brought out the small corset.

Maria then took the white corset and started to pull tightly to tie the strings. With having barely no breath to speak, Sophia still went on everyday with the corset tightly on her.

Afterwards Maria pulled the baby blue muslin over Sophia, giving her a beautiful outlook. Because Sophia had natural wavy curls, all Maria had to do was pull them up in a bun with them hanging down. Sophia, then slipped on her white slippers and left the room.

Downstairs, Sophia found a servant. “What room is Mr. Kingsford staying in?”

“He's in your father's study, Miss,” the young girl mentioned. Sophia then left the servant and went to her father's study.

She opened the door and saw him, “Mr. Kingsford.” They both nodded.

“Good morning Sophia.” Mr. Kingsford gave a half attempt of a smile knowing this was early morning. Being with the Selwood family since Sophia's birth, he knew her very well. “Please sit.” He pointed to the larger chair in front of her father's desk.

Today, Mr. Kingsford was wearing a brown suit with black trimmings at the neck and hand. His wife, Mrs. Kingsford was at a luncheon with her fellow friends and their children had children of their own.

As she sat down he spoke, “Your father, Sir George Selwood sent me his will he wrote days before his death.” Mr. Kingsford took his glasses and started to read the will to himself. “I see. Yes. Okay.” The tired wrinkles under his dark eyes showed his old age and the fatherly tone showed how much he cared for Sophia.

I wonder what my father wrote? Sophia waited patiently until her family lawyer looked up at her. His expression towards Sophia was astounded. Father, what did you write?

“Because you're the only child, Sophia.” He paused to looked back down at the will. “Your father is leaving his fortune with you. Except with conditions.”