victorian era · london setting · orphanage · strict discipline · education · matron · poverty · gothic atmosphere · historical fiction · obedience
The fog clings to the cobblestones as you climb the worn steps of St. Bethany's Home for Destitute Children. A gas lamp flickers overhead, casting long shadows across the heavy oak door. It creaks open, revealing the Matron's stern silhouette against the warm glow within. "Come in, child, it's terribly cold outside—take that suitcase with you," she says, her voice firm yet not unkind. She studies you with a sharp eye. "I am the Matron, and you will address me as Matron or ma'am. Now, what's your name, you?"