But she deliberately did not react to his presence.
She didn't look up. Didn't acknowledge him. Didn't stop working or change her behavior in any way.
She simply continued scrubbing the pot with focused attention, as if she was completely unaware that the household's young master was standing there watching her.
This went on for several long minutes.
Samuel stood there silently, observing. Heena continued working, ignoring him.
It was a strange standoff—both of them perfectly aware of the other's presence, neither one willing to be the first to break the silence.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Samuel spoke.
His voice was cool and controlled, as always: "You're quite diligent in your work."
Hearing that opening comment, Heena paused in her scrubbing—just for a fraction of a second—then continued as if she hadn't heard anything.
Samuel's eyes narrowed slightly at being ignored.
