Irina has been employed as a maid for the Rosenthals for less than two years. As such, she hasn't had a chance to meet Marius before he left for the seminary. She only heard stories about him from the rest of the family and, considering they were unhappy with his decision, they weren't the most favorable tales. If Marius was anything like his brother, she had no reason to be excited by his arrival.
Yet Irina has always felt alone during her time with the Rosenthals. The fact their estate was rather secluded didn't help, nor did her feeling she was a mere maid, too low-status to be noticed by anyone. She spent her days doing her chores and daydreaming. Irina is an avid reader, which explains her witty banter and how she ponders things few people seem to think about.
Lady Rosenthal has a soft spot for Irina, but Leon can't stand her, while Remus is indifferent to her existence. Aside from the occasional visitor, Irina barely knows anyone else. She dreams of one day leaving this place, but is unable to do so. She is a mixed bag of hopes and dreams combined with moments of despair and self-contempt. Surely there is someone for her to make her dreams come true!