Former Co-Worker

Mabel turned around, hiding her face with her hands. It was so abrupt that she did not have the time to think of an excuse or proper method of hiding. 

"Mabel? Do you not remember me? It's Vela. We used to share the same room," said the maid. When she realized that another lady and Elijah were also there, she bowed and greeted them, not knowing who they were and why Mabel was there.

This was the worst scenario for Mabel, although this was the best scenario for Elijah because he came to this manor for a specific purpose–to fish out the truth from his mother.

He spoke to the maid, "Greetings. I am Elijah, Mabel's son. May I know who you are?"

Vela was a plump woman, and she was rather short. She smiled tenderly and touched Elijah's arm. She flinched in surprise when she felt Elijah's strong and rock-hard arm. 

"Your mother and I used to work together," said Vela. "What are you doing here? Will Mabel work in the Reinhard manor again?"